Summary
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Quick Facts: Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians | |
---|---|
$37,370 per year
$17.96 per hour |
|
High school diploma or equivalent | |
None | |
Moderate-term on-the-job training | |
81,200 | |
9% (Much faster than average) | |
7,400 |
What Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians Do
Dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians construct, fit, or repair medical appliances and devices.
Work Environment
Dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians often work in laboratories. Other technicians work in health and personal care stores or in healthcare facilities. Most work full time.
How to Become a Dental or Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician or Medical Appliance Technician
Dental or ophthalmic laboratory technicians or medical appliance technicians typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and receive on-the-job training.
Pay
The median annual wage for dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians was $37,370 in May 2019.
Job Outlook
Overall employment of dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As cosmetic prosthetics, such as veneers and crowns, become less expensive, there should be an increase in demand for these appliances. In addition, as the large baby-boom population grows older, there should be increased demand for orthotic devices, such as braces and orthopedic footwear.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about dental and ophthalmic laboratory technicians and medical appliance technicians by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.