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Certified Optometric Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Eye Care is hiring for a full-time (1.0 FTE) Optometric Assistant in our Glencoe location ... ABO, NCLE, CPO, CPOA, COA certifications preferred Job Type: Full-time Schedule: * 8 hour shift ...

Optometric Assistant

Binghamton, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Assistant

Rosedale, NY · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Assistant

Clinton, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Assistant

Guilderland, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Assistant

Albany, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Assistant

Colonie, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Optometric Technician

Denison, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Certified Para-Optometric (CPO) and Certified Para-Optometric Assistant (CPOA). If you have experience, or simply have a desire to provide exceptional customer service and are willing to learn, send ...

Optometric Assistant

Auburn, NY · On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

Southwest Eye Care is hiring for a full-time Optometric Assistant at our Jordan/New Prague ... ABO, NCLE, CPO, CPOA, COA certifications preferred Job Type: Full-time Work Location: In person ...

Optometric Assistant

Leominster, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $26.63/hr

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily ... certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include ...

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Certified Optometric Assistant information

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How much do certified optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified optometric assistant in the United States is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified optometric assistant?

A Certified Optometric Assistant is a trained professional who supports optometrists in delivering eye care services to patients. Their duties often include assisting with eye exams, managing patient records, performing basic vision tests, educating patients about eye care, and handling administrative tasks in an optometry office. Certification typically involves completing a formal training program and passing a standardized exam, demonstrating knowledge and skills essential for the role. Certified Optometric Assistants play a vital part in ensuring smooth clinic operations and high-quality patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified optometric assistant?

To thrive as a Certified Optometric Assistant, you need knowledge of basic eye care procedures, vision testing, and office administration, typically supported by completion of a certified optometric assistant program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, optometric instruments, and appointment scheduling software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help build rapport with patients and support efficient practice operations. These skills and qualities ensure accurate patient care, smooth office workflow, and a positive patient experience in optometric settings.

What are some common challenges certified optometric assistants face when managing patient flow in a busy optometry practice?

Certified Optometric Assistants often encounter the challenge of balancing efficient patient flow with providing quality care, especially during peak hours. They must coordinate with optometrists, handle administrative tasks, and assist patients with pre-testing, eyewear selection, and documentation, all while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor. Effective communication and organizational skills are crucial to ensure that appointments stay on schedule and patients feel well-cared for. Adapting to changing priorities and multitasking are common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Certified Optometric Assistant vs Optometric Technician?

AspectCertified Optometric AssistantOptometric Technician
CredentialsCertification often required or preferredCertification or specialized training often required
Work EnvironmentOptical clinics, private practices, retail opticalOptical clinics, private practices, hospitals
Job DutiesAssisting with patient intake, administrative tasks, basic eye examsPerforming preliminary eye tests, measuring visual acuity, assisting with exams
Industry UsageCommonly used in optical and optometry settingsCommonly used in clinical optometry settings

While both Certified Optometric Assistants and Optometric Technicians work in optometry settings, the main difference lies in their responsibilities and certification requirements. Certified Optometric Assistants typically handle administrative tasks and basic patient care, whereas Optometric Technicians perform more technical eye tests and measurements. Both roles are essential in supporting optometrists and are often found in similar work environments.

How much do certified optometric assistants make in the US?

Certified optometric assistants in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in eye care clinics or optometry offices, performing tasks such as patient care, equipment operation, and administrative support, with certification potentially increasing earning potential.

Is a Certified Optometric Assistant a good career?

A Certified Optometric Assistant is a valuable role in eye care clinics, providing support to optometrists and assisting with patient care, exams, and administrative tasks. The position often requires certification and offers opportunities for career advancement within the healthcare field. Job stability and growth potential are generally favorable for those with relevant skills and certifications.

What do you need to be a Certified Optometric Assistant?

To become a Certified Optometric Assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant on-the-job training, and may pursue certification through organizations like the American Optometric Association. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with eye care equipment are also important. Certification is often preferred by employers and can enhance job prospects.

What cities are hiring for Certified Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Optometric Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Certified Optometric Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Optometric Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Certified Optometric Assistant jobs?

For Certified Optometric Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Certified Optometric Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,352 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Optometric Assistant

Glencoe, MN

Southwest Eye Care
Outpatient Health Care • 51 - 200 employees

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Southwest Eye Care is hiring for a full-time (1.0 FTE) Optometric Assistant in our Glencoe location!

Who we are:

We are ambassadors of integrity, who are committed to individualized care using remarkable technology, to create an exceptional patient experience. We are dedicated to creating work/life harmony in an efficient and enjoyable environment for everyone who enters our clinics. Starting pay is $19.00-20.00/hour.

This opportunity is for you if:

  • You are professional, caring, and able to multi-task
  • You like the hustle and bustle of the healthcare industry
  • You are an adaptable and strong team player
  • You can work independently and demonstrate critical thinking skills
  • You have a passion for growth and desire to continue learning
  • You can work flexible hours, one night and one Saturday a month

About the Optometric Assistant role:

  • Focuses on the Patient: Seeks to understand patient needs to create value
  • Demonstrates a Positive Attitude and Resilience: Adapts positively to pressure, setbacks, challenges, and change to achieve and sustain peak effectiveness.
  • Drives for Success: Delivers excellent performance by seizing opportunities and proactively taking concrete actions that adhere to Southwest Eye Care policies and procedures. Goes the extra-mile and persistently overcomes obstacles.
  • Assist doctors during clinic times by taking patient health histories, visual acuities, and perform pretests requested by the doctors. Prep exam rooms for clinic and close down rooms after clinic.
  • Perform front desk duties included but not limited to answering phones, greeting patients, checking in patients, prepping charts, filing, verifying insurance, billing professional fees, and scheduling appointments.
  • Optical duties as assigned including but not limited to frame selections, ophthalmic lens ordering, frame ordering, glasses adjustments, dispensing glasses, dispensing contacts, repairing glasses, verifying glasses and frame orders, and notifying patients when product is available.
  • Contact lens responsibilities including patient contact lens orders, verifying contact lens orders, ordering contact lens trials, and I amp; R classes.
  • Responsible for ordering medical supplies, eye drops used during patient visits, and sample prescription drops.
  • Other administrative duties including but not limited to reconciling monthly statements with invoices, ordering office supplies, and cleaning the office.
  • Travel to other offices required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance (medical, dental, vision, HSA)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Other Benefits: Accident, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Life/AD amp;D, Disability, Commuter, Dependent Care, Adoption amp; Surrogate, Pet Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Discounts

You meet these requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Three years related optical experience or customer service experience preferred
  • ABO, NCLE, CPO, CPOA, COA certifications preferred

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Unifeye Vision Partners provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.