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Assistant Optical Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Optical Technician, you'll be the link between our optometrists and patients. Your role will ... Provide post-exam guidance * Assist optometrists during eye exams or minor procedures * Prepare and ...

Optical Technician

Reedley, CA ยท On-site

$21/hr

Experienced Medical Assistants and/or new Medical Assistant graduates are welcomed! Our Optical Technicians work directly with our Optometrist provider and they strive to go above and beyond, take ...

Optical Technician

Fowler, CA ยท On-site

$21/hr

Experienced Medical Assistants and/or new Medical Assistant graduates are welcomed! Our Optical Technicians work directly with our Optometrist provider and they strive to go above and beyond, take ...

The Optical Technician must be able to assist patients with eyeglasses ordering and fittings. The Optical Technician must also possess strong sales skills by demonstrating a high level of knowledge ...

The Optical Technician must be able to assist patients with eyeglasses ordering and fittings. The Optical Technician must also possess strong sales skills by demonstrating a high level of knowledge ...

An Optical Technician is a valuable asset to an Optometrist as they assist in providing excellent care to patients during their visit. This candidate will be able to handle a wide range of duties ...

An Optical Technician is a valuable asset to an Optometrist as they assist in providing excellent care to patients during their visit. This candidate will be able to handle a wide range of duties ...

An Optical Technician is a valuable asset to an Optometrist as they assist in providing excellent care to patients during their visit. This candidate will be able to handle a wide range of duties ...

Optical Technician

Lockbourne, OH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

... and assist with lens stocking and inventory Operates the automatic taper Tints edged and uncut ... Optical Technician (Level 1) Must be able to work any shift, time, and day Ability to meet ...

Optical Technician

Lockbourne, OH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

... and assist with lens stocking and inventory Operates the automatic taper Tints edged and uncut ... Optical Technician (Level 1) Must be able to work any shift, time, and day Ability to meet ...

Optical Technician

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

Perform most functions of an Optical Technician (Level 1) Inventory control functions including assist with stocking lens shelves, sort and distribute trays, pull semi-finished or finished lenses ...

Optical Technician

Honolulu, HI ยท On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

... and assist with lens stocking and inventory Operates the automatic taper Tints, edged, and uncut ... Optical Technician (Level 1) Must be able to work any shift, time, and day Ability to meet ...

Optical Technician

Lockbourne, OH ยท On-site

$15.75 - $22.58/hr

... and assist with lens stocking and inventory Operates the automatic taper Tints edged and uncut ... Optical Technician (Level 1) Must be able to work any shift, time, and day Ability to meet ...

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Assistant Optical Technician information

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How much do assistant optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant optical technician in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Optical Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Optical Technician, you need a basic understanding of optical principles, lens handling, and laboratory procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lens edging equipment, lensometers, and optical measurement tools is crucial, and some employers may require certification such as the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong customer service skills set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure the accurate preparation of eyewear, high-quality patient interactions, and efficient lab operations.

What is the difference between Assistant Optical Technician vs Optical Technician?

AspectAssistant Optical TechnicianOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentOptical retail stores, labs, or clinicsOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, or retail settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with lens fitting, cleaning, and basic adjustmentsCutting, grinding, and assembling lenses; more technical tasks

Assistant Optical Technicians support optical professionals with basic tasks, while Optical Technicians handle more technical lens fabrication and adjustments. Both roles are essential in optical settings, but Optical Technicians typically require more specialized skills and certifications.

What does an optical assistant do?

An optical assistant helps with tasks in an eye care setting, such as preparing patients for eye exams, assisting with frame selection, and maintaining optical equipment. They often work under the supervision of an optometrist or optician and may handle administrative duties as well.

What are Assistant Optical Technicians?

Assistant Optical Technicians are entry-level professionals who support opticians and optometrists in the preparation, assembly, and repair of eyeglasses and optical devices. They assist with tasks like measuring lenses, fitting frames, maintaining equipment, and ensuring all optical products meet quality standards. This role often involves working directly with customers, handling basic adjustments, and learning the technical aspects of lens crafting and eyewear fitting. It's a hands-on job requiring attention to detail and good customer service skills.

How much do retail optical assistants make?

Retail optical assistants typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $37,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, and the employer, and the role often requires good customer service skills and knowledge of optical products.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Optical Technicians, and how can they be overcome?

Assistant Optical Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during lens fabrication, adapting to new optical technologies, and managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced laboratory environment. Developing strong attention to detail and practicing effective time management can help overcome these hurdles. Additionally, staying current with industry training and collaborating closely with optometrists and senior technicians ensures accuracy and fosters a supportive team environment.

What do you need to be an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with ophthalmic equipment are important for the role. Some positions may require certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Do I need a degree to be an optical assistant?

An optical assistant typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, and certifications in optical dispensing or customer service can enhance job prospects. Technical skills and knowledge of optical products are important for success in this role.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Optical Technician jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Optical Technician job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Technician jobs? The most popular types of Optical Technician jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Optical Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Optical Technician jobs include:

Optician Assistant / Optical Technician - Temporary / Contract

Ambition 24Hours Inc

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$15 - $24/hr

Contractor

Vision

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Optician Assistant / Optical Technician - Temporary / Contract

Location: Multiple Locations Nationwide

Estimated Pay Range:ย  $15.00 - $24.00 per hourย  (based on experience, certification and location)

Job Type

Temporary | Contract

Hours

Part-Time and Full-Time Hours Available

Locations

Assignments available across all 50 states

Certification

Not required - ABO certification a plus and commands higher pay

Education

High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience

Previous optical, eyecare, or retail vision centre experience preferred

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for Optician Assistants and Optical Technicians for temporary assignments at retail optical stores, eyecare practices, and vision centres nationwide. This is a great opportunity if you have optical experience and want flexible, well-paid temp work. No certification is required for this role, though ABO certification is a plus and will command higher pay.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

  • Greet patients and gather demographic and insurance information
  • Assist patients in browsing and selecting eyeglass frames
  • Take basic measurements for eyeglass fittings under optician supervision
  • Process eyewear orders, track deliveries, and notify patients when orders are ready
  • Perform minor eyeglass adjustments, cleanings, and repairs
  • Maintain organised displays of frames and optical merchandise
  • Handle point-of-sale transactions and insurance billing

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

  • Previous experience in an optical shop, eyecare practice, or retail vision centre preferred
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Customer service skills and a friendly, professional demeanour
  • Basic understanding of eyewear products - frames, lenses, and contact lenses
  • Ability to learn optical point-of-sale and lab order systems quickly
  • ABO certification not required but is a plus - we can help you work toward it

WHAT'S ON OFFER

  • Weekly pay at competitive hourly rates between $15.00 and $24.00 per hour
  • Flexible scheduling - part-time and full-time assignments available
  • Gain experience across different optical retail environments
  • Professional support and guidance to grow your optical career
  • No long-term commitment - work on assignments that fit your life