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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Placitas, NM · On-site

Ophthalmologist MD or DO from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Tijeras, NM · On-site

Ophthalmologist MD or DO from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Corrales, NM · On-site

Ophthalmologist (MD or DO) from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Placitas, NM · On-site

Ophthalmologist (MD or DO) from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Tijeras, NM · On-site

Ophthalmologist (MD or DO) from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

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All JobsOphthalmic Assistant JobsOphthalmic Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is an ophthalmic assistant a good career?

An ophthalmic assistant is a valuable healthcare professional who supports ophthalmologists by performing patient exams, assisting with procedures, and managing patient records. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and a clear career path in eye care, often requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

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.

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

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.

Do you have to be certified to be an ophthalmic assistant?

Certification is not always required to become an ophthalmic assistant, but many employers prefer or require certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). Obtaining certification can improve job prospects and demonstrate competence in skills such as eye measurements, patient care, and use of ophthalmic instruments. Requirements vary by employer and state regulations, so some assistants may start with on-the-job training while others pursue certification beforehand.

How much does a non-certified ophthalmic assistant make?

Non-certified ophthalmic assistants typically earn between $12 and $16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Certification can lead to higher wages and more job opportunities, but entry-level positions may not require certification.

What do you do as an ophthalmic assistant?

An ophthalmic assistant supports eye care professionals by preparing patients for exams, taking medical histories, performing basic eye tests, and assisting with diagnostic procedures. They often operate specialized equipment and must follow safety and hygiene protocols, typically working in clinical or optical settings. Certification or training in ophthalmic assisting is usually required.

What are ophthalmic assistants?

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.
More about Ophthalmic Assistant jobs
What job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:
Ophthalmic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,216 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Independent Optometrist - Walmart

Walmart

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Walmart rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 21,824 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

Position Summary...What you'll do...

Launch your services in Walmart stores!

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing.

As an independent lease holder you have the autonomy to:

  • Establish your days of practice
  • Establish your hours of operation
  • Control your patient schedule
  • Set your fee schedule
  • Keep 100 of exam/professional fees

For a fair market value you can opt into

  • Equipment instrumentation
  • Administrative and/or Opt-Tech support services (if state allows)

Minimum Qualifications for a lease agreement:

  • Doctor of Optometry OD from an accredited optometry school
  • Valid state optometry license
  • Ophthalmologist MD or DO from an accredited school
  • Valid state ophthalmology license
  • General Liability Certificate
  • Professional Liability Insurance Certificate

By continuing with this process, you understand that you are not applying for a position of employment with Walmart Inc. or any entity owned by Walmart Inc. Nothing in the documents or information presented during this process is intended to create, now or in the future, an employment relationship with Walmart Inc. or any entity owned by Walmart Inc. To the extent any of the documents or information presented during this process implies that you are applying for a position of employment with Walmart Inc or an entity owned by Walmart Inc. you expressly disclaim such understanding by continuing with this process.
 

Minimum Qualifications...

Outlined below are the required minimum qualifications for this position. If none are listed, there are no minimum qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications...

Outlined below are the optional preferred qualifications for this position. If none are listed, there are no preferred qualifications.

Primary Location...901 Unser Blvd Se, Rio Rancho, NM 87124-6365, United States of AmericaWalmart and its subsidiaries are committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and has a no tolerance policy regarding the use of illegal drugs and alcohol on the job. This policy applies to all employees and aims to create a safe and productive work environment.

What Walmart employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Walmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

From our humble beginnings as a small discount retailer in Rogers, Ark., Walmart has opened thousands of stores in the U.S. and expanded internationally. Through innovation, we're creating a seamless experience to let customers shop anytime and anywhere online and in stores. We are creating opportunities and bringing value to customers and communities around the globe. Walmart operates approximately 10,500 stores and clubs in 19 countries and eCommerce websites. We employ 2.1 million associates around the world — nearly 1.6 million in the U.S. alone.

Industry

Retail and transportation and warehousing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bentonville, AR, US

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