I am trying to change careers at the age of 54. I like helping people, and have an extensive customer service background. I am wondering how to become a hearing instrument specialist or hearing aid dispenser. I live in central Florida. My main concern is how to find a sponsor. Is working as a trainee a paid position? Is it difficult to find a sponsor? Thanks in advance for any information you can provide.
I finally found someone who will give me the internship, but this was through a coincidental meeting with the HIS receptionist at a house she was house sitting and I was working on. I had contacted numerous hearing aid centers and also had several people in the business looking and asking around for several years for me with no luck. All I can offer is be diligent and eventually you will find something. Another avenue that several people I talked to took was to get a job at Costco and then after a year ask to be considered for a job in the hearing aid center. This works out great if you can do it because it’s a paid internship whereas a lot of the other internships are not. Also check to see what is required in Florida to get the license. Good luck!
I actually asked my HIS at Costco how he became one and how much money they make. Here in Washington State, there are two programs offered at community colleges - one in Seattle and one in Spokane. He said Costco pays $26/hr to start and managers make in the low-30’s per hour. He also pointed out all the benefits Costco employees enjoy, which I imagine are attractive.
i am eligible to retire in 2 years and starting to explore my options. I agree it could be a satisfying career and who better to serve HA patients than another HA patient?
I have been thinking to start career for Hearing Aid Dispenncer. But not able to understand how can I get sponsors to get my California license.
Any tips or experience will really help me to move forward.