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Eye Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Eye Care Professional is responsible for interacting with customers on a daily ... assist patients in frame selection this includes taking measurements, fit, and adjust glasses ...

Harborview - Eye Institute has an outstanding opportunity for a Medical Assistant - Certified (MA-C). WORK SCHEDULE * Full-time, 100% FTE (40 hours per week) * Day Shift DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION ...

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Eye Assistant information

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How much do eye assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for eye assistant in the United States is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Eye Assistant, you need knowledge of basic ocular anatomy, experience with vision testing, and often a certificate or diploma in ophthalmic assisting. Familiarity with diagnostic equipment such as autorefractors, tonometers, and electronic medical record (EMR) systems is crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a team help Eye Assistants excel. These skills are vital for supporting eye care professionals, ensuring accurate patient assessments, and delivering effective patient care.

What are Eye Assistants?

Eye Assistants, also known as ophthalmic assistants or optometric assistants, are healthcare professionals who support optometrists and ophthalmologists in providing eye care services. Their duties typically include conducting preliminary eye tests, helping with patient intake, preparing examination rooms, and assisting with procedures. They may also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and managing patient records. Eye Assistants play a key role in ensuring efficient and effective eye care delivery.

How hard is it to become a certified ophthalmic assistant?

Becoming a certified ophthalmic assistant typically requires completing a post-secondary education program or on-the-job training, followed by passing a certification exam such as the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) exam. The process usually takes about one to two years and involves developing skills in eye care procedures and patient interaction.

How long does it take to be an ophthalmic assistant?

Becoming an ophthalmic assistant typically requires completing a post-secondary certificate or diploma program, which can take from several months up to a year. Some positions may also require on-the-job training or certification in ophthalmic assisting skills and tools. Overall, the pathway is shorter than becoming an ophthalmologist and allows for entry into the eye care field relatively quickly.

What is the difference between Eye Assistant vs Optometric Technician?

AspectEye AssistantOptometric Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOptical clinics, eye care centersOptometry offices, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient prep, basic eye testsPerform preliminary tests, assist with exams
Industry UsageCommonly used in optical and eye care settingsMore specialized, used in optometry practices

While both roles support eye care professionals, an Eye Assistant typically handles basic patient assistance and testing, whereas an Optometric Technician performs more advanced preliminary tests and assists during eye exams. The roles often overlap but differ in certification requirements and responsibilities.

How to become an eye assistant?

To become an eye assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue post-secondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Relevant skills include knowledge of eye anatomy, patient care, and use of ophthalmic instruments; certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) can enhance job prospects.

What are some common challenges Eye Assistants face when supporting optometrists during busy clinic hours?

Eye Assistants often need to balance multiple responsibilities, such as preparing patients for exams, performing preliminary vision tests, and managing administrative tasks like scheduling. During busy clinic hours, staying organized and maintaining clear communication with both patients and optometrists can be challenging. Time management and adaptability are essential, as priorities may shift quickly depending on patient needs and the flow of appointments. Building strong teamwork skills helps Eye Assistants ensure efficient patient care and smooth clinic operations.

What do eye assistants do?

Eye assistants support ophthalmologists and optometrists by preparing patients for exams, performing basic eye tests, and assisting with equipment. They may also help with patient education, record keeping, and maintaining the cleanliness of the exam area. Strong communication skills and knowledge of eye care procedures are important for this role.
More about Eye Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Eye Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Eye Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Eye jobs? The most popular types of Eye jobs are:
What states have the most Eye Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Eye Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Eye Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,681 per year, or $22 per hour.
OPHTHALMOLOGY ASSISTANT - MARINER EYE

OPHTHALMOLOGY ASSISTANT - MARINER EYE

ASPIRUS HEALTH

Superior, WI • On-site

$21.42 - $31.06/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Aspirus Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 876 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Compassion. Accountability. Collaboration. Foresight. Joy.
These are the Aspirus Core Values; and we are looking for the BEST around to join us as we demonstrate those values Every. Single. Day.
ASPIRUS ST. LUKE'S SUPERIOR CLINIC in Superior, WI is seeking an OPHTHALMOLOGY ASSISTANT to join our MARINER EYE team!
Salary Range: $21.42 - $31.06 Hourly
Schedule/Hours: DAY ONLY, 8 hours
Weekend Requirement: Generally No Weekends
FTE: FULL TIME, 1.0 FTE or 80 Hours Biweekly
NOW OFFERING A SIGN-ON BONUS!!!
The Ophthalmology Assistant, under the medical direction of the Ophthalmologist (MD), assists the ophthalmologist by performing tasks, collecting data, administering treatments as ordered and supervising patients. Takes patient history, administers tests and evaluations, takes eye measurements for the purpose of diagnosis, and performs related clinical support. Assists and accompanies physician throughout the patient evaluation in order to efficiently and accurately document the patient physical examination.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: Completion of an approved training program for Ophthalmology Assistant or high school or equivalent.
  • Experience: Six (6) months direct patient care in a medical office or one (1) year customer service experience.
  • Licensure/Certification/Registration: Certified Ophthalmology Technician, Certified Ophthalmology Assistant, or Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist within twelve (12) months of hire into position.
  • Within ninety (90) days of hire, BLS Certification with a designation of either BLS Provider or Healthcare Provider from either the American Heart Association or American Red or Military Training Network.
  • Wisconsin Background Study upon hire and renewed per Wisconsin state law.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: N/A
  • Experience: Previous experience as a Medical Scribe or Ophthalmology Assistant with scribing experience.
  • Licensure/Certification/Registration: N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the basic structure and function of the eye, history taking, visual acuity testing, clinical chart documentation, anatomy and physiology of the retina, basic ophthalmic pharmacology, basic retinoscopy, fundus photography, slit lamp operation and telephone triage in an ophthalmic practice. Knowledge of supplies, instruments and equipment used in office-based ophthalmology. Ability to present a professional image and understand and carry out instructions by medical staff. Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to work with indirect supervision and accept personal responsibility. Ability to provide service in a courteous and tactful manner. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to perform basic computer keyboarding and answer the telephone.
  • READING - Intermediate: Ability to read and interpret documents such as operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
  • WRITING - Intermediate: Ability to write routine reports, correspondence, or procedures.
  • SPEAKING - Intermediate: Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one, small group situations or before groups of customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
  • MATHEMATICAL SKILLS - Basic Skills: Ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.
  • REASONING ABILITY - Intermediate Skills: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • AGE SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES - Skilled at assessment and knowledgeable of growth and development. Provides appropriate care respective to the ages of the patients served per clinical environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND ENVIRONMENT
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of an ophthalmology clinic practice, including the ability to see, hear, walk, write legibly, speak English, stand and work greater than eight (8) hours per day
  • Stand - Continuously Over 2/3 (5.5 - 8 hours)
  • Walk - Continuously Over 2/3 (5.5 - 8 hours)
  • Sit - Frequently 1/3 to 2/3 (2.5 - 5.5 hours)
  • Use hands to finger, handle, or feel - Continuously Over 2/3 (5.5 - 8 hours)
  • Reach with hands and arms - Frequently 1/3 to 2/3 (2.5 - 5.5 hours)
  • Stoop, Squat, Kneel, or Crouch - Occasionally Under 1/3 (1-2.5 hours)
  • Bending-repetitive forward - Occasionally Under 1/3 (1-2.5 hours)
  • Talk or hear - Continuously Over 2/3 (5.5 - 8 hours)

LIFTING REQUIREMENTS
  • Up to 10 pounds - Continuously Over 2/3 (5.5 - 8 hours)
  • Up to 25 pounds - Frequently 1/3 to 2/3 (2.5 - 5.5 hours)
  • Up to 35 pounds - Occasionally Under 1/3 (1-2.5 hours)

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Typical Noise Level - Moderate noise (examples: business office with computers and printers, light traffic)
WORKING CONDITIONS
Works in an office-based clinic setting. May be exposed to risk of exposure to blood borne disease. May be exposed to electrical and mechanical hazards from office equipment. May be exposed to unpleasant patient elements.
Employee Benefits
  • Full benefits packages available for part- and full-time status.
  • Time away from work accrual.
  • Retirement plans available.
  • Wellness program for employees and their families.

Aspirus St. Luke's in Duluth is a cornerstone of health care in northeastern Minnesota, offering a wide range of medical specialties and advanced care services. With a history dating back to 1881, this downtown Duluth hospital has grown into a comprehensive medical center with a strong commitment to patient-centered care. The facility features a 267-bed hospital, state-of-the-art surgical and imaging technology, and a nationally recognized heart and vascular center. As part of the broader Aspirus system, St. Luke's is also known for its excellence in orthopedics, cancer care, and women's and children's health. In addition to the main hospital campus, the Duluth area includes multiple primary and specialty care clinics that serve the Twin Ports and surrounding communities. Duluth, MN
Our Mission: We heal people, promote health and strengthen communities.
Our Vision: Aspirus is a catalyst for creating healthy, thriving communities, trusted and engaged above all others.
As an Aspirus team, we demonstrate caring, we plan to impact the future, work with happiness and enthusiasm, recognize our power to make a difference and improve the health of our communities.
Aspirus Health is a nonprofit, community-directed health system based in Wausau, Wisconsin, serving northeastern Minnesota, northern and central Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The health system operates 18 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations with nearly 14,000 team members, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians. For more information visit aspirus.org.
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