Career profile · SOC 29-2081

Opticians, dispensing

Opticians, dispensing is an occupation catalogued under SOC 29-2081. The role reports a median annual salary of $46,560 in the US and is showing modest growth of 3% over the next decade. Entry typically requires a High school diploma or equivalent, and shows moderate AI exposure (0.55 on a 0-1 scale) — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts.

Median salary
$46,560
per year
Growth outlook
Average
BLS 10-yr
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
AI exposure
5.5/10
automation risk

Frequently asked questions

How much does Opticians, dispensing earn?

The median annual salary for Opticians, dispensing in the US is $46,560.

What is the job outlook for Opticians, dispensing?

The role is showing modest growth of 3% over the next decade. Current US employment is approximately 79,900 workers.

How do I become opticians, dispensing?

The typical entry education is a High school diploma or equivalent. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.

Will AI replace Opticians, dispensing?

Our AI-durability model gives Opticians, dispensing a score of 0.55 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at moderate AI exposure — some tasks are being automated but the role adapts. Learning to work with AI tools rather than against them is the path forward.

How hard is it to enter this field?

Opticians, dispensing has low barrier to entry — generally accessible — you can enter with basic credentials and on-the-job learning.

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