A lens grinder is someone who shapes lens blanks for eyeglasses or contact lenses by cutting, grinding, or otherwise shaping them. The lens grinder will use specialized machinery, which is usually computer-controlled, to make precise cuts and grinds to a customer’s prescription specifications. While most grinders work in an optical lab, others may work independently or in an eyeglass store. In many areas, no formal education is required to work as a grinder, but in others, a person will most likely need to complete both a high school education and a certificate program.
Apprenticeships are also available to assist a candidate in becoming a lens grinder, though these apprenticeships typically require a high school diploma. To become a lens grinder, you’ll need basic math and communication skills, so candidates with a high school diploma will have an advantage. Community colleges and technical colleges typically offer certificate programs that are designed to teach students how to operate complex machinery and other tools used in the grinding and cutting process. This certification will assist the job candidate in obtaining employment in the field; some employers will require certification, while others will allow the employee to work toward certification while completing an apprenticeship.
The lens grinder must shape the lens to fit into a specific style and shape of eyeglass frame after the frames have been ground and built to specifications. This necessitates skill and knowledge of how to use the tools properly, as well as the lens grinder’s assurance that the lenses are properly secured using the proper mounting methods. Repairing damaged lenses and frames, polishing or otherwise cleaning lenses, assessing prescriptions and work orders, and attaching any accessories such as nose pads or ear pieces are all responsibilities of grinders.
Selecting appropriate materials and marking them for grinding is a part of the lens grinding process. The most common lenses are glass and plastic, and the lens grinder must learn how to work with each material safely and effectively. The grinder will learn how to mark lenses to indicate where cutting and grinding must take place, as well as how to polish them to remove scratches, clouding, and other damage that can impair normal vision. The grinder may also be responsible for the upkeep of the machines used in the grinding process.