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Eye Care Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Eye Care Assistant information

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How much do eye care assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for eye care assistant in the United States is $17.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an eye care assistant?

Eye Care Assistants are healthcare professionals who support optometrists, ophthalmologists, or other eye care specialists in clinical settings. Their responsibilities often include preparing patients for eye exams, conducting preliminary vision tests, maintaining equipment, and assisting with administrative tasks. They play a vital role in ensuring efficient patient flow and high-quality care by managing both clinical and clerical duties. Eye Care Assistants help create a positive experience for patients and contribute to the smooth operation of eye care practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an eye care assistant?

To thrive as an Eye Care Assistant, you typically need knowledge of basic eye anatomy, patient care procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring completion of a certified ophthalmic assistant program. Familiarity with eye examination equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and vision testing systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help Eye Care Assistants provide excellent patient support and work effectively with optometrists and ophthalmologists. Mastering these competencies is vital to ensure accurate patient assessments, smooth clinic operations, and a positive patient experience.

What are some common challenges faced by eye care assistants in a fast-paced clinic setting?

Eye Care Assistants often work in busy clinics where they need to balance multiple responsibilities, such as preparing patients for exams, performing preliminary vision tests, and assisting optometrists or ophthalmologists. A common challenge is managing time efficiently while ensuring each patient receives attentive care and accurate pre-testing. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing schedules and learning new equipment or procedures are important aspects of the role. Strong communication and organizational skills help Eye Care Assistants thrive in these dynamic environments.

What is the difference between Eye Care Assistant vs Optician?

AspectEye Care AssistantOptician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need certification or training programsRequires certification or licensure, such as ABO certification in many regions
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care centers, hospitalsOptical stores, eyewear retail outlets, clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with patient prep, basic eye tests, administrative tasksFitting and dispensing eyewear, adjusting glasses, patient education
Industry UsageCommonly employed in eye care settings alongside optometristsWorks closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists, focusing on eyewear

The main difference is that Eye Care Assistants support eye care professionals with basic tasks and patient prep, while Opticians focus on fitting, dispensing, and adjusting eyewear. Both roles are essential in eye care settings but require different certifications and responsibilities.

Do you have to be certified to be an eye care assistant?

In most cases, certification is not required to become an eye care assistant, but obtaining certification can improve job prospects and demonstrate competence. Employers may prefer candidates with training in ophthalmic assisting or related skills, and some states or employers may have specific requirements. On-the-job training is common, but additional certifications like the Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) can be beneficial.

How do you become an eye care assistant?

To become an eye care assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue postsecondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Relevant skills include knowledge of eye anatomy, patient care, and use of ophthalmic instruments, and some positions may require certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Is an eye care assistant a good career?

An eye care assistant is a valuable role in eye care clinics, supporting optometrists and ophthalmologists with patient care, equipment, and administrative tasks. The position often requires certification or training and offers opportunities for career advancement in the healthcare field.
More about Eye Care Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Eye Care Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Eye Care Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Eye Care jobs?

The most popular types of Eye Care jobs are:

What states have the most Eye Care Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Eye Care Assistant jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Eye Care Assistant jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Eye Care Assistant jobs are:

Infographic showing various Eye Care Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,685 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

$22.18 - $23.59/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Pacific Cataract & Laser Institute rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

OBJECTIVE
In a positive and cheerful manner, support and work alongside our doctors to provide an outstanding patient experience. This is accomplished by performing accurate preliminary testing while establishing a light and easy rapport with patients to reduce their anxiety. Also, use your relationship with patients to help instill confidence in the medical and surgical care they will receive.
REPORTS TO
Site Manager
STATUS
3/4 Time (30-39 hours per week)
SCHEDULE
Monday - Thursday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. Schedule may vary according to patient schedule and clinic needs.
REQUIRED SKILLS
  • Pleasant, caring and helpful attitude
  • Detail oriented and organized
  • Ability to work with a team to set and achieve common goals
  • Good verbal and written communication with legible handwriting
  • Keyboarding and comfortable using Microsoft Word
  • Ability to remain composed and professional under stressful circumstances

PHYSICAL ABILITIES
  • Lift up to 50 pounds
  • Push various pieces of equipment around the clinic
  • Stand for long periods of time
  • Push a wheelchair and help patients transfer in and out of exam chairs

ADDITIONAL TRAINING
  • Washington Medical Assistant Certification (PCLI will cover the cost)

BENEFITS
  • Profit Sharing
  • 401(k) Plan with generous 50% company match
  • Health Savings/Spending Accounts
  • Medical/Vision/Dental
  • Paid Holidays
  • Personal Time
  • Group Life Insurance Policy
  • Voluntary Term Life Insurance
  • LifeBalance Employee Assistance Program
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Eligible for free refractive surgery

*Driving record and background check upon offer for employment*

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