Professional Dispensing Optician- University of the Free State (2 years)
Job Details
- Job Title: Professional Dispensing Optician
- Job ID: 6588
- Reference: 2273
- Department: Department of Optometry
- School: School for Allied Health Professions
- Faculty: Faculty of Health Sciences
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Job Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 2 years
- Working Hours: 20 hours per week
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Assumption of Duty: As soon as possible
- Closing Date: 17 September 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
The Professional Dispensing Optician will support the academic and clinical training of Optometry students through teaching, supervision and assessment.
The successful candidate will contribute to practical dispensing training, provide clinical supervision, assist with the cutting and fitting of assistive devices, and support the coordination of student clinical training in various settings, including community-based environments.
The role also involves dispensing quality assurance, departmental administration, committee participation and contributing to the ongoing development of clinical training within the Optometry programme.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Supporting theoretical and practical student training through lecturing, supervision and assessment of practical dispensing training.
- Providing dispensing supervision and conducting dispensing assessments during clinical Optometry training.
- Assisting with the cutting and fitting of assistive devices in different settings, including community-based environments.
- Supporting dispensing skills development among Optometry students.
- Assisting with the coordination of clinical training in various settings.
- Contributing to teaching development related to Optometry clinical training.
- Performing general administration and dispensing quality assurance associated with clinical training.
- Attending and contributing to relevant committees and meetings.
- Performing general departmental administrative duties.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following inherent requirements:
- A relevant National Diploma in Optical Dispensing or Opticianry at NQF Level 6.
- At least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
- At least 2 years of experience supervising, training and/or assessing Optometry students.
- A good academic record.
- Active registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Dispensing Optician.
- A valid driver’s licence.
Applicants must provide documentary proof of the relevant qualifications, academic record, HPCSA registration and driver’s licence.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
The following will be advantageous:
- A postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 7 or higher.
- Alternatively, willingness to enrol for a postgraduate qualification in a health-related field at the first available opportunity if not already qualified at the time of appointment.
- Experience delivering a poster or oral presentation at a conference.
Required Competencies
Results Orientated
- Ability to adapt to a frequently changing environment.
- Reliable, responsible and dependable approach to work.
- Ability to fulfil professional obligations.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to plan work and follow established plans.
- Ability to analyse information carefully and use logic to solve workplace problems.
Business Acumen
- Ability to adhere to rules, policies and work regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leading
- High levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to cooperate with others and encourage teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Confidence and ease when interacting with people in different social situations.
- Ability to establish positive professional relationships and personal connections.
Benefits
Subject to specific conditions, the successful candidate may qualify for fringe benefits including:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits