Dispensing Optician or Experienced Dispensing Assistant position available

Shepton Mallet, Somerset | £25,000 – £30,000

Christopher Young Opticians is a well-established, independent opticians practice based in the heart of Shepton Mallet, Somerset. We pride ourselves on delivering personalised, unhurried eye care and expert dispensing advice to our patients — many of whom have been with us for years.

Our small, dedicated team works together to ensure every patient leaves feeling confident in their eyewear and well cared for. We invest in our people and our equipment, and we are looking for someone who shares our commitment to quality and patient satisfaction.

We are now seeking an experienced Dispensing Assistant or qualified Dispensing Optician to join our team on a full-time, permanent basis.

The Role

You will be at the heart of our patient journey — helping patients choose the right frames and lenses, providing expert dispensing advice, and ensuring every order is processed accurately and efficiently.

The position is Monday to Friday with one Saturday morning every four weeks, offering an excellent work–life balance alongside a competitive salary of £25,000 – £30,000 per annum depending on qualification and experience.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

• Dispensing spectacles and contact lenses to patients following an eye examination
• Advising patients on frame styles, lens options, coatings, and varifocals
• Taking accurate dispensing measurements including PD, heights, and fitting adjustments
• Processing optical orders and liaising with laboratories
• Performing frame adjustments, repairs, and collection checks
• Providing excellent customer service and building long-term patient relationships
• Supporting the wider practice team during busy periods
• Maintaining accurate patient records using practice management software
• Assisting with stock management, frame displays, and merchandising

Working Hours

Full-time, Monday to Friday, with one Saturday morning every four weeks (until 1:00 pm on Saturday).

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £25,000 – £30,000 per annum, depending on qualification and experience
• Full-time, permanent contract
• Friendly, supportive team environment in a well-established independent practice
• Based in Shepton Mallet, Somerset — a beautiful market town with excellent transport links
• Opportunity to develop your skills and grow within the practice
• A role where your expertise is genuinely valued and your contribution makes a difference

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Has proven experience in an optical dispensing role (Dispensing Assistant or Dispensing Optician)
• Is confident and accurate with dispensing measurements and lens recommendations
• Has experience advising patients on varifocal and specialist lens options
• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Has a genuine commitment to patient care and satisfaction
• Can work accurately under pressure and manage multiple tasks
• Has the right to work in the United Kingdom

The following would be advantageous but are not essential:

• FBDO qualification or equivalent (Dispensing Optician)
• GOC registration (for qualified Dispensing Opticians)
• Experience with practice management systems (e.g. Optix, Optisoft, Acuitas)
• Experience in an independent opticians environment
• Knowledge of contact lens dispensing

How to Apply

To apply, please complete our online application form at: Application Form

Applications must be received by 30 June 2026. We aim to acknowledge all applications within five working days.

If you would prefer an informal conversation first, please do not hesitate to get in touch — we are very happy to talk.

Christopher Young Opticians is an equal opportunities employer.