Optician Programs in Portland, Oregon
Becoming an Optician in Portland, Oregon
If you’re considering a career as an Optician in Portland, Oregon, you’re embarking on a path that combines technical skills with customer service in the healthcare field. Opticians, also known as Optical Technicians, are professionals who help fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions from ophthalmologists or optometrists. This guide will walk you through the steps to become an Optician, including education paths, training programs, and certification options available in Portland.
About Portland
Portland, Oregon, known for its unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, is a city that offers a rich cultural scene and a strong sense of community. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette rivers, and in the shadow of Mount Hood, Portland is a hub for innovation and sustainability. For more information about the city, visit the official Portland website.
Optician Training Programs in Portland, Oregon
While Portland does not have a plethora of dedicated Optician programs, there are nearby options that provide comprehensive training:
- Portland Community College (PCC)
- Location: Southeast Portland
- Program: PCC offers a Health Professions program that includes courses relevant to opticianry, such as medical terminology and healthcare customer service. While not a dedicated Optician program, it provides foundational knowledge beneficial for aspiring Opticians.
- Website: PCC Health Professions
- Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Location: Gresham, OR (approximately 16 miles from Portland)
- Program: MHCC offers a Vision Care Technology program that covers essential skills for Opticians, including optical dispensing and laboratory skills.
- Website: MHCC Vision Care Technology
- Apprenticeship Programs
- Location: Various optometric clinics in Portland
- Program: Some clinics offer apprenticeship opportunities approved by the U.S. Department of Labor, providing hands-on experience in opticianry.
Optician Employment Opportunities in Portland
Portland offers a variety of employment opportunities for Opticians across different settings:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Location: Multiple locations across Portland
- Description: A leading healthcare provider with a comprehensive optical department, offering various career opportunities for Opticians.
- Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers
- OHSU Casey Eye Institute
- Location: Marquam Hill
- Description: Part of Oregon Health & Science University, this institute is renowned for its eye care services and research, providing opportunities for Opticians in a clinical setting.
- Website: OHSU Careers
- LensCrafters
- Location: Lloyd Center
- Description: A major optical retailer offering a range of eyewear products and services, with positions for Opticians focused on customer service and sales.
- Website: LensCrafters Careers
Prerequisites for Optician Programs
To enroll in an Optician program, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require entrance exams or background checks. It’s important to check specific program requirements at each institution.
Licensure Requirements in Oregon
Oregon does not mandate licensure for Opticians. However, obtaining national certifications from the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) and the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) is highly recommended. These certifications enhance your credentials and are often preferred by employers. For more information, visit the ABO-NCLE website.
Licensure Reciprocity
Since Oregon does not require licensure for Opticians, reciprocity with other states is not applicable. However, national certifications are recognized across the United States.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an Optician in Portland, Oregon, offers a rewarding opportunity to blend technical skills with patient care. Whether you choose formal education or an apprenticeship, the path to becoming an Optician is accessible and fulfilling. Contact a local school today to begin your journey and take the first step towards a promising career in opticianry.
For more information on the job outlook for Opticians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.