Trainee Dispensing Optician - Thatcham

ROLE: Trainee Dispensing Optician

LOCATION: Thatcham

Vacancy closes: 2/5/26

JOB PURPOSE: To contribute to the achievement of the highest standards of customer service and professional advice by offering first class dispensing practices and customer care at all times. To achieve qualification as a G.O.C. registered dispensing optician via ‘blended learning’, which is a combination of distance learning, block release, and practice-based learning.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform all dispensing requirements in line with supervisor’s instructions, which can include prescription analysis, advising on lens type, styling frames, and taking frame, facial, and lens measurements.
• Carry out repairs, adjustments, and fittings in line with supervisory instruction.
• Check new jobs into the branch as required.
• Process all invoices and credit notes as received.
• Chase outstanding orders and advise customers of delays.
• Provide administrative back‑up where necessary to the branch team, including cashing up, processing vouchers, overseeing daily envelope and contact lens ordering.
• Enter stock when received on the computer system.
• Promote products and services and maximise the opportunity to sell sunglasses and accessories.
• Perform stocktaking, including the preparation of information and accurately recording branch stock.
• Order stock as required, using accurate forms and procedures.
• Deal with all other tasks as directed, including assisting other members of the practice team.
• Complete the required study materials and attend college as directed by ABDO.
• Process all marked coursework and send it to the training manager.
• Act as a keyholder.
• Work within professional guidelines, legal requirements, and G.O.C. regulations.
• In own time, undertake supervised practical experience in the work environment, and attend vocational training as selected by the company, some of which will be on a residential basis.

KEY ATTRIBUTES:

• Keen interest in Ophthalmic Dispensing.
• Confident about working within a team.
• Commercially aware, and happy to offer the customer what they need.
• Dedicated to exemplary patient service to ensure patient satisfaction.
• Excellent communication skills, with empathy and patience.
• Desire to do, see and enjoy a job well done.
• Ability to commit to 10-15 hours per week for distance learning coursework.
• Ability to attend two block release periods per year at ABDO College in Godmersham, Kent.
• Ability to undertake full‑time training while completing the programme.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

• 5 GCSEs at Grades 4–9 (A–C) including English, Mathematics, and Science OR 5 years optical experience with A-C in Maths.