I applied in-person. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Nationwide Vision Center (Phoenix, AZ) in July 2014
Interview
Quick and easy, application is online and then you just have to give the office a call that you would like to work at. Make sure this job is something that you really want to do, money is not good enough for the amount of stress it causes.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 5 days. I interviewed at Nationwide Vision Center (Goodyear, AZ) in Dec 2011
Interview
Short and simple, asked about career background (didn't have much) but they were mostly looking for a great personality. Although it would be beneficial to have some experience in the optical field, you just need to be able to show your interest and convince them you are able to handle what they throw at you.