Job Description
# Optician — Optical Options of Aspen
**Location:** 520 E Durant Ave, Suite 203, Aspen, CO 81611
**Position:** Full-Time Dispensing Optician
**Compensation:** $75,000–$85,000/year + commission + housing stipend
**Start Date:** Flexible (Summer 2026 preferred)
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## About Us
Optical Options of Aspen is a beloved, independently owned optical shop located at the base of Aspen Mountain — steps from the Silver Queen Gondola. For over 33 years, we've been Aspen's go-to destination for personalized eyewear, earning our reputation as the most affordable optical center in town without compromising on quality or style.
We're under new ownership and looking for a skilled, personable optician to lead daily operations and carry forward the exceptional customer experience our clients know and love.
## The Role
You'll be the face of the shop. This isn't a corporate chain — you'll have real autonomy to build relationships with customers, curate eyewear collections, and run the day-to-day. You'll work with everyone from Aspen locals who've been coming in for decades to visitors who need same-day service on the mountain.
**What you'll do:**
- Interpret and fill optical prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Guide customers in selecting frames, lens types, and coatings based on their lifestyle, prescription, and budget
- Take precise facial and frame measurements for proper lens fitting
- Adjust, fit, and repair frames to ensure comfort and optimal vision
- Manage inventory — frames, lenses, accessories — and coordinate with suppliers
- Operate the POS system and maintain accurate customer/prescription records
- Provide same-day service for urgent optical needs
- Build lasting relationships with repeat customers and the Aspen community
- Maintain a clean, inviting retail environment with attractive frame displays
## What We're Looking For
**Required:**
- 2+ years of dispensing optician experience
- Strong knowledge of lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive), coatings, and frame materials
- Ability to read and interpret optical prescriptions accurately
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Comfortable working independently and managing a retail operation
- Reliable, punctual, detail-oriented
**Preferred:**
- ABO (American Board of Opticianry) certification
- Experience with high-end/luxury eyewear brands
- Familiarity with optical POS and inventory management systems
- Experience in a resort or tourism-driven market
- Bilingual (Spanish a plus)
## Compensation & Benefits
- **Base Salary:** $70,000–$75,000/year (based on experience and certification)
- **Sales Commission:** 3–5% on eyewear sales
- **Housing Stipend:** $500/month (we know Aspen housing is tough — we'll help)
- **Sign-On Bonus:** $5,000 for ABO-certified candidates
- **PTO:** Paid time off + flexible scheduling during shoulder seasons
- **Professional Development:** ABO certification support and continuing education reimbursement
**Total compensation potential: $70,000–$90,000+/year** (base + commission + housing)
## Why Aspen?
This isn't just a job — it's a lifestyle. You'll live and work in one of the most beautiful mountain towns in the world. World-class skiing in winter, hiking and biking in summer, and a vibrant arts and dining scene year-round. If you love the outdoors and want to build a career in a tight-knit mountain community, this is your opportunity.
## How to Apply
Send your resume and a brief note about why you're interested to:
**William Plaza**
KPO Investments LLC
We're looking to have someone in place by summer 2026, with a transition period alongside the retiring optician.
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*Optical Options of Aspen is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome candidates of all backgrounds.*
Employment Type: Full Time
Years Experience: 1 - 3 years
Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 Annual
Bonus/Commission: Yes
Job Tags
Full time, Summer work, Local area, Relocation package, Flexible hours