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Certified Paraoptometric Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Technician

Ukiah, CA

$25 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Current Certified Paraoptometric, Paraoptometric Assistant or Paraoptometric Technician (CPO) certification preferred Compensation details: 25-31 Hourly Wage PIc02f4625ea69-25405-41096066

Optometric Technician

Ukiah, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Current Certified Paraoptometric, Paraoptometric Assistant or Paraoptometric Technician (CPO) certification preferred Compensation details: 25-31 Hourly Wage PI952d92d10844-31181-41096066

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Certified Paraoptometric Assistant information

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$13

$23

$35

How much do certified paraoptometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified paraoptometric assistant in the United States is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Certified Paraoptometric Assistant vs Certified Paraoptometric Assistant?

AspectCertified Paraoptometric Assistant

Since the comparison is with itself, the roles are identical. Typically, a Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) performs clinical and administrative tasks under the supervision of an optometrist, including assisting with patient care, pre-testing, and managing patient records. Both titles refer to the same credential and job responsibilities, often used interchangeably in the industry. The certification ensures a standardized level of knowledge and skills for assisting in optometry practices.

What are some common challenges certified paraoptometric assistants face when working in a busy optometry practice?

Certified Paraoptometric Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patient appointments, keeping up with rapidly changing schedules, and staying organized while performing clinical and administrative tasks. Balancing direct patient care—like conducting pre-testing and gathering patient histories—with responsibilities such as maintaining records or assisting with eyewear selection requires strong multitasking abilities. Effective communication and teamwork with optometrists, technicians, and front office staff are essential to ensure smooth patient flow and high-quality care in a fast-paced environment.

What is a certified paraoptometric assistant?

Certified Paraoptometric Assistants (CPAs) are allied health professionals who work under the supervision of licensed optometrists to provide eye care services. They perform a variety of tasks such as taking patient histories, conducting basic eye tests, assisting with contact lens procedures, and educating patients about eye care. CPAs help ensure that optometry practices run smoothly and that patients receive high-quality care. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by the American Optometric Association (AOA) and meet certain education or experience requirements.

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

To thrive as a Certified Paraoptometric Assistant, you need a strong understanding of eye care procedures, patient intake, and vision screening, typically supported by completion of a training program and CPOA certification. Familiarity with practice management software, ophthalmic instruments, and insurance billing systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and excellent customer service skills help build patient trust and support clinical teams. These skills ensure efficient, accurate patient care and smooth daily operations in an optometry practice.
More about Certified Paraoptometric Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Certified Paraoptometric Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Certified Paraoptometric Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Certified Paraoptometric Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified Paraoptometric Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Certified Paraoptometric Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,849 per year, or $23 per hour.

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant - Supplemental

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

$25.87 - $38.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 697 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The Ophthalmic Assistant is accountable for a broad range of duties related to the delivery of direct patient care within the Department of Ophthalmology. Patient care includes, but is not limited to, visual acuity measurements, ocular motility measurements, retinoscopy, refractometry, lensometry, tonometry, pupil function, anterior chamber depth, color vision, visual field, keratometry and contact lens fit, ocular examination with slit-lamp biomicroscopy, medical history, patient education, medication administration, ancillary testing and assisting with procedures. The Ophthalmic Assistant must determine testing methods most suitable for each patient. Accuracy and applicability of data is the responsibility of the Ophthalmic Assistant.


Qualifications

High school degree or equivalent and Certified as an Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician through JCAHPO or a Graduate of an accredited school of Ophthalmic Technology with an Associate's degree in Ophthalmic Technology. Strong refractometry skills are required. Job Specifications: Strong communication and organization skills, maturity and the ability to function in a high-paced, multi-specialty Ophthalmology Department. Basic computer knowledge is required. 
JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology) certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Association (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT), Certified Retinal Angiographer(CRA) or AOA (American Optometric Association) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) and Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) level. Current CPR Certification.


Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.; $25.87 - 38.05 / hour;
Benefits Eligible
No
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
8
Schedule Details
Supplemental Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Weekend Schedule
Not applicable
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Tricia HardingQualifications:

High school degree or equivalent and Certified as an Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician through JCAHPO or a Graduate of an accredited school of Ophthalmic Technology with an Associate's degree in Ophthalmic Technology. Strong refractometry skills are required. Job Specifications: Strong communication and organization skills, maturity and the ability to function in a high-paced, multi-specialty Ophthalmology Department. Basic computer knowledge is required. 
JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology) certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Association (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT), Certified Retinal Angiographer(CRA) or AOA (American Optometric Association) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) and Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) level. Current CPR Certification.


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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919