The optical laboratory specialist is primarily responsible for making and repairing eyeglasses that are provided for Army personnel.
Job Duties:
- Surface lens blanks, fabricates, and repairs.
- Assemble prescription spectacles.
- Maintain tools and equipment.
Training:
Job training for an optical laboratory specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 24 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including practice in making and repairing optical devices.
Helpful Skills:
- Interest in biology, chemistry, and industrial arts.
- Proficiency with precision tools and instruments.
- High attention to detail.
- Adept at following detailed instructions and work procedures.
Compensation:
Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time.
Education Benefits:
In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses.
Future Civilian Careers:
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career as an optical laboratory technician, optician, or an ophthalmic laboratory technician in optical laboratories or retail optical offices.
Through your extensive Army training, additional study, and two years of recommended experience, you may qualify to take the National Opticianry Competency Exam, which will allow you to possibly pursue a career as an optician.
PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH SUCCESS (PaYS) Program:
Those interested in this job may be eligible for civilian employment, after the Army, by enrolling in the Army PaYS program. The PaYS program is a recruitment option that guarantees a job interview with military friendly employers that are looking for experienced and trained Veterans to join their organization.
- HCA.
- Johns Hopkins Hospital/Health Systems.
- NorthCrest Medical Center.
- Cleveland Clinic.
- Atlantic Health System.
- Bell Ambulance, Inc.
- Prince William Health System.
- Reliant Medical Group.
- Yale-New Haven Hospital.
- Baton Rouge General Medical Center.
Job Requirements:
- Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent.