Top 10 Questions for Dispensing Optician Apprentice Interview

1. What are the different types of lens materials and their properties?

• Glass lenses: These are the oldest type of lenses and are made from a combination of silica and other materials. They are scratch-resistant and can provide good optical clarity, but they are also heavier and more expensive than other types of lenses.
• Plastic lenses: These are made from a lightweight and impact-resistant plastic material. They are less expensive than glass lenses, but they can be more easily scratched and may not provide as good optical clarity.
• Polycarbonate lenses: These are made from a tough and durable plastic material. They are lightweight, impact-resistant, and can provide good optical clarity. They are also the most expensive type of lenses.

2. How do you measure the pupillary distance (PD) and what is the correct way to do it?

Measuring the pupillary distance (PD)

• Position the patient in front of a mirror.
• Hold a PD ruler horizontally across the patient’s nose, with the zero mark aligned with the center of one pupil.
• Measure the distance from the center of the first pupil to the center of the second pupil.
• Record the PD measurement in millimeters.

Correct way to measure PD

• The patient should be looking straight ahead at a distant object.
• The PD ruler should be held parallel to the patient’s face.
• The measurement should be taken from the center of the pupils, not the edges.
• The PD measurement should be recorded in millimeters.

3. What are the different types of lens coatings and what are their benefits?

• Anti-reflective coating: This coating reduces reflections from the surface of the lenses, making them less noticeable and improving vision clarity.
• Scratch-resistant coating: This coating helps to protect the lenses from scratches, which can impair vision clarity.
• UV-protective coating: This coating blocks harmful UV rays from reaching the eyes, protecting them from damage.
• Polarized coating: This coating reduces glare from reflective surfaces, making it easier to see in bright conditions.

4. How do you adjust the fit of eyeglasses and what tools do you use?

• Nose pads: These can be adjusted to change the vertical fit of the eyeglasses.
• Temples: These can be adjusted to change the horizontal fit of the eyeglasses.
• Bridge: This can be adjusted to change the distance between the lenses.
• Tools: A screwdriver or pliers may be needed to make adjustments to the eyeglasses.

5. What are the different types of eyeglass frames and what are their advantages and disadvantages?

• Metal frames: These are lightweight and durable, but they can be more expensive than other types of frames.
• Plastic frames: These are less expensive than metal frames, but they can be less durable.
• Rimless frames: These have no frame around the lenses, which makes them very lightweight and comfortable to wear.
• Semi-rimless frames: These have a frame around the top of the lenses, but not the bottom.

6. How do you troubleshoot common eyeglass problems and what are the steps involved?

• Loose screws: This can be fixed by tightening the screws with a screwdriver.
• Bent frames: This can be fixed by gently bending the frames back into shape.
• Scratched lenses: This can be fixed by replacing the lenses.
• Broken hinges: This can be fixed by replacing the hinges.

7. What are the different types of contact lenses and what are their advantages and disadvantages?

• Soft contact lenses: These are made from a soft, flexible material and are very comfortable to wear.
• Hard contact lenses: These are made from a rigid material and are more durable than soft contact lenses.
• Gas permeable contact lenses: These are made from a semi-rigid material and allow more oxygen to reach the cornea.
• Extended wear contact lenses: These can be worn for a longer period of time than other types of contact lenses.

8. How do you fit contact lenses and what are the steps involved?

Fitting contact lenses

• The patient’s eyes will be examined to determine the correct size and type of contact lenses.
• The patient will be fitted with a trial pair of contact lenses.
• The patient will wear the trial pair of contact lenses for a period of time to ensure that they are comfortable and fit properly.
• If the patient is satisfied with the fit of the trial pair of contact lenses, they will be prescribed a pair of contact lenses.

Steps involved in fitting contact lenses

• The patient’s eyes will be dilated.
• The patient’s cornea will be measured.
• The patient will be fitted with a trial pair of contact lenses.
• The patient will wear the trial pair of contact lenses for a period of time to ensure that they are comfortable and fit properly.
• If the patient is satisfied with the fit of the trial pair of contact lenses, they will be prescribed a pair of contact lenses.

9. What are the different types of eye diseases and what are their symptoms?

• Cataracts: This is a clouding of the lens of the eye.
• Glaucoma: This is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye is too high.
• Macular degeneration: This is a condition in which the macula, the central part of the retina, is damaged.
• Diabetic retinopathy: This is a condition in which the blood vessels in the retina are damaged.

10. What are the different types of eye exams and what do they involve?

• Comprehensive eye exam: This is a complete eye exam that includes a vision test, an eye pressure test, and a dilated eye exam.
• Vision test: This test measures the sharpness of your vision.
• Eye pressure test: This test measures the pressure inside your eye.
• Dilated eye exam: This test involves dilating your pupils with eye drops so that the doctor can see the inside of your eyes.

As a Dispensing Optician Apprentice, you’ll provide comprehensive support within an optical retail environment. Your key responsibilities will include:

1. Patient Interaction

Interact with patients in a friendly and professional manner, understanding their needs and providing excellent customer service.

• Explain eyeglass and contact lens options, including materials, styles, and features.
• Assist patients with choosing and fitting frames and lenses that meet their individual needs.

2. Dispensing

Dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses according to prescriptions, ensuring accuracy and quality control.

• Prepare and fit eyeglasses, including measuring PD, adjusting frames, and inserting lenses.
• Teach patients how to properly insert, remove, and care for their contact lenses.

3. Frame and Lens Selection

Assist patients in selecting the appropriate eyeglass frames and lenses based on their prescription, facial features, and lifestyle.

• Recommend frames that complement the patient’s face shape and personal style.
• Explain the benefits and limitations of different lens materials and coatings.

4. Inventory and Equipment Maintenance

Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring that inventory is properly stocked and equipment is in good working order.

• Monitor inventory levels of frames, lenses, and other supplies, and place orders as needed.
• Perform minor repairs and adjustments to eyeglasses and contact lenses.

To ace your interview for a Dispensing Optician Apprentice role, follow these tips:

1. Research the Company and Industry

Familiarize yourself with the optical industry and the specific company you’re applying to. This will help you understand their culture, values, and the role’s expectations.

• Visit the company’s website and social media pages.
• Read industry news and articles to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies.

2. Practice Common Interview Questions

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare your answers accordingly. This will help you feel confident and articulate your skills and experience.

• Describe a time when you provided excellent customer service to a challenging client.
• Explain your understanding of the different types of eyeglass lenses and how you would recommend them to a patient.
• Why are you interested in becoming a Dispensing Optician Apprentice?

3. Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills

Emphasize your relevant experience and skills in your resume and during the interview. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

• If you have experience in a customer service role, highlight your ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and resolve their concerns.
• Mention any optical experience, such as volunteering at an eye clinic or shadowing an optician.

4. Dress Professionally and Arrive Punctually

First impressions matter, so dress professionally and arrive for your interview on time. This shows respect for the interviewer and the company.

• Wear business casual attire, such as a dress shirt, slacks, or a skirt with a blouse.
• Be punctual and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow for any unexpected delays.

5. Be Enthusiastic and Ask Questions

Show your genuine interest in the role and the company by being enthusiastic and asking thoughtful questions.

• Explain why you’re passionate about optical and why you believe you’d be a valuable asset to the team.
• Ask questions about the company’s training program, growth opportunities, and commitment to customer satisfaction.