Italy’s optical sector hires 1,600 staff annually despite training gap

In Italy, approximately 1,600 opticians and optometrists are hired each year, while the educational system certifies only 600 to 700 professionals. This imbalance leaves about 400 positions vacant annually, with companies reporting recruitment difficulties for 77.6% of open roles. Job searches typically last three to five months, though most new graduates secure employment within a quarter at gross annual salaries between €25,000 and €28,000. With 21,500 active workers nationwide, demographic turnover is expected to worsen shortages over the next 5–10 years. US Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates low AI exposure for optometrists (15-20%) and moderate exposure for opticians (30-35%), suggesting technology will aid rather than replace clinical tasks. These findings were released by the Istituto Benigno Zaccagnini Observatory ahead of a November 23 event in Milan.