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- Tasks: Support the dispensing team and deliver exceptional customer service in a modern optical practice.
- Company: Join a respected independent optical practice with over 100 years of heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, staff discounts, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with ongoing training and team-building events.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team and make a real difference in patient care.
- Qualifications: Experience in spectacle dispensing and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28100 - 31491 £ per year.
We're working with a long-established, highly respected independent optical practice in Croydon that's looking to recruit a Dispensing Assistant to join their experienced and friendly team. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone with optical experience who enjoys delivering outstanding customer care in a modern, boutique-style practice where patients are genuinely looked after, not rushed through.
The practice itself has a strong heritage dating back to 1895 and has recently undergone a full refurbishment (2023), creating a high-end, welcoming environment that blends clinical excellence with a premium retail experience.
About the Practice
- A strong reputation built over 100+ years in the community
- A recently refurbished, boutique-style clinical environment
- Premium eyewear including luxury brands such as Cartier
- A highly personalised, patient-first approach
- A supportive and collaborative team culture
- High standards of clinical and customer care
The Role
As a Dispensing Assistant, you'll play a key supporting role within the dispensing team, working closely with qualified Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians. You will be responsible for ensuring patients receive a smooth, professional, and high-quality experience from the consulting room through to final dispensing.
Key responsibilities include:
- Delivering excellent customer service at all times
- Supporting the dispensing process under supervision of qualified staff
- Assisting patients with frame selection and basic lens guidance
- Taking accurate measurements using digital systems (iPad where applicable)
- Supporting the three-way handover between Optometrist, patient, and dispensing team
- Carrying out focimetry and supporting spectacle ordering processes
- Ensuring spectacles are quality checked, fitted, and adjusted correctly
- Handling minor repairs and aftercare support
- Managing accurate clinical and patient records in line with GDPR
- Processing payments and supporting front-of-house transactions
- Keeping the practice presentable and ensuring displays are well maintained
This is a varied, hands-on role where no two days are the same.
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience in spectacle dispensing (essential)
- Ideally Level 3 Optical Assistant qualification (or working towards)
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Confident working in a busy, patient-facing environment
- Good attention to detail and organisational ability
- Comfortable using IT systems (Word, Excel, practice software)
- Positive, enthusiastic attitude with a willingness to learn
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary £28,100 - £31,491 (DOE)
- 28 days holiday including bank holidays
- No Sunday or Bank Holiday working
- 1 Saturday off per month
- Company pension scheme
- Staff and family discounts
- CPD and ongoing training support
- Career progression opportunities
- Incentive scheme & Perkbox benefits
- EAP support scheme
- Company sick pay
- Regular team building events
Why Apply?
This is a great opportunity to join a long-established independent practice that combines heritage with a modern, premium feel - offering stability, development, and a genuinely supportive team environment.
Optical Assistant For Busy Independent Practice in Croydon employer: Vivid Optical
Contact Detail:
Vivid Optical Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Assistant For Busy Independent Practice in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the practice before your interview! Research their history, values, and services. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their long-standing reputation.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since this role is all about delivering outstanding care, think of examples from your past experiences where you've gone above and beyond for a customer. Be ready to share these during your chat!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Since this is a boutique-style practice, make sure you present yourself well. A smart appearance shows that you respect the environment and are serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Assistant For Busy Independent Practice in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any previous optical experience you have in your application. We want to see how you've delivered outstanding customer care in the past, so don’t hold back on those examples!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this role. Mention why you're excited about working in a boutique-style practice and how you align with our patient-first approach. It’ll make your application stand out!
Be Professional Yet Friendly: While we love a casual vibe, remember that professionalism is key. Use a friendly tone but keep it polished. Show us your personality while still being respectful and clear in your writing.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at our Croydon practice!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vivid Optical
✨Know Your Optical Stuff
Brush up on your optical knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with common terms and processes related to spectacle dispensing, as well as the latest trends in eyewear. This will show that you're not just passionate about the role but also knowledgeable, which is key for a Dispensing Assistant.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since this practice prides itself on outstanding customer care, be ready to share examples of how you've delivered excellent service in previous roles. Think of specific situations where you went above and beyond for a customer, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions About the Practice
Demonstrate your interest in the practice by preparing thoughtful questions. Ask about their approach to patient care or how they maintain their high standards. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team and contributing to their legacy.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss practical scenarios you might face as a Dispensing Assistant. They may ask how you would handle a difficult customer or assist a patient with frame selection. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.