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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Vitreoretinal Surgery PLLC

Ophthalmic Assistant

Anoka, MN · On-site

$21.50 - $23.50/hr

Responsibilities for an Ophthalmic Assistant include, but are not limited to the following: * Engage with patients - Demonstrate a patient centric attitude and professionalism that instills ...

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Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Minnesota is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmic assistant?

Ophthalmic assistants are healthcare professionals who support ophthalmologists in providing eye care to patients. Their duties typically include taking patient histories, performing basic eye tests, assisting with procedures, maintaining equipment, and educating patients about eye care. They play a vital role in ensuring that eye clinics and practices run efficiently, acting as a bridge between patients and the ophthalmologist. Ophthalmic assistants may also help with administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing patient records.

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

To thrive as an Ophthalmic Assistant, you need knowledge of ocular anatomy, basic eye care procedures, and typically a high school diploma or completion of a certified ophthalmic assistant program. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments, visual acuity testing tools, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is important. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to provide patient education set top candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate patient assessments, efficient clinic operations, and a positive patient experience in eye care settings.

What are some common challenges ophthalmic assistants face when working in a fast-paced clinic setting?

Ophthalmic Assistants in busy clinics often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patient appointments simultaneously, quickly adapting to changes in the daily schedule, and maintaining attention to detail during vision tests and screenings. Balancing efficient patient flow with thorough documentation and compassionate care requires strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, staying up-to-date with new ophthalmic technologies and procedures can be demanding but is essential for providing high-quality patient support.

What is the difference between Ophthalmic Assistant vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectOphthalmic AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CredentialsCertificate or diploma, often on-the-job trainingMore specialized training, often certification
Work EnvironmentOptometry and ophthalmology clinics, hospitalsSame as Ophthalmic Assistant, with more technical tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesPatient history, basic eye tests, assisting with examsPerforming diagnostic tests, operating equipment, assisting with procedures

Ophthalmic Assistants and Ophthalmic Technicians work closely in eye care settings, but Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform more technical tasks. Both roles support ophthalmologists and optometrists in providing patient care, with the Technician role often requiring certification and offering a broader scope of diagnostic responsibilities.

How much do ophthalmic assistants make in the US?

Ophthalmic assistants in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $36,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The role often requires knowledge of ophthalmic procedures and the use of diagnostic tools.

Is being an ophthalmic assistant worth it?

Ophthalmic assistants perform clinical tasks such as patient history taking, eye measurements, and assisting with eye exams, often working in ophthalmology clinics or optometry offices. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and a chance to work closely with healthcare professionals, making it a viable career choice for those interested in eye care. Salary and job growth are generally favorable for entry-level healthcare support roles.

What do you need to be an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers prefer postsecondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with medical terminology and ophthalmic equipment are also important. Certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) can enhance job prospects.
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Ophthalmic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,834 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Ophthalmic Assistant

Retina Consultants of Minnesota

Maplewood, MN • On-site

$21.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description
Retina Consultants of Minnesota (RCM) is seeking outgoing, patient focused individuals to work as an Ophthalmic Assistant.
If you have a passion for providing exceptional patient care, are highly personable, team-oriented, attuned to accuracy and fine detail, and would like to advance your career in Ophthalmology, we would like to talk to you!
We will teach you how to become an eye technician with hands on ophthalmic training. No previous experience is necessary, just a passion to help and willingness to learn - we will teach you the rest!
Responsibilities for an Ophthalmic Assistant include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Engage with patients - Demonstrate a patient centric attitude and professionalism that instills confidence in VRS's services.
  • Gather appropriate patient data to complete patient history and screening forms, which includes the chief complaint, dates, time intensity, and other associated factors. Relay all important data to the Physician.
  • Administer dilation drops when appropriate and/or perform necessary testing, including visual acuity, glaucoma tests, and OCT's.
  • Direct and accompany patients to appropriate room for care as necessary.

Required Skills, Abilities and Attributes for an Ophthalmic Assistant include:
  • High School Degree or GED
  • Applicants MUST be personally motivated to provide excellent patient care!!
  • Minimum of 2 years of previous ophthalmology experience is preferred
  • Knowledge of medical terminology is preferred
  • Be an excellent team player who works cooperatively and respectfully with all doctors, supervisors, and co-workers
  • Displays a desire to perpetually "Learn and Grow"
  • Efficient and highly accurate user of applicable information technology and health care management systems
  • Physically capable of working long hours in a fast-paced, often stressful, environment with the potential of emergency situations.

We offer excellent compensation and benefits, to include:
  • Paid Holidays - 7 days per year
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) - 16 days per year
  • Health Insurance
  • Health Reimbursement Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • Dental Insurance (free single coverage)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Basic and Supplemental Term Life Insurance (free single coverage)
  • Long Term Disability (free single coverage)
  • Long Term Care (free single coverage)
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Vision
  • Annual $250 uniform (scrubs and shoes) reimbursement

About Retina Consultants of Minnesota (RCM):
RCM has 9 Minnesota locations - St. Louis Park, Edina, Edina Specialty, Woodbury, Blaine, Duluth, Maplewood, Anoka, and Mankato.
Everything we do.... every decision we make...takes our Guiding Principles into consideration. Our guiding principles are:
  • We exist to serve our patients. We will provide the best available medical skills, technology, and service. We will be their advocates. We will care for our patients as if they were members of our family. We will treat our patients with respect, dignity, and kindness.
  • We are proud of our dedicated staff. We will strive to provide a rewarding career with opportunity for personal and professional growth. We will promote teamwork. We will provide a respectful and safe working environment.
  • We are humbled that other doctors entrust their patients to our care. We will be available when we are needed. We will promptly communicate the results of patient evaluation and treatment. We will respect the referring doctors' relationships with their patients.
  • We recognize that we have a responsibility to our community. We will strive to be desire to perpetually "Learn and Grow"
  • Efficient and highly accurate user of applicable information technology and health care management systems
  • A good corporate citizen. We will function ethically. We will be prudent in our stewardship of healthcare resources.
  • Medical advances are critical to our patients. We will remain at the forefront in the search for new knowledge and treatments of retinal disease. We will participate in clinical research. We will share our knowledge with our patients and referring doctors, and with our retinal colleagues around the world.

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