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Ophthalmic Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Associates

Ophthalmic Technician

Southfield, MI · On-site

$14 - $20/hr

Ophthalmic Technician For over forty years, Ophthalmic Specialist of Michigan (OSM), has served the Detroit metropolitan area by providing the best possible care and vision to every patient. We are ...

Eyenamics NY

Ophthalmic Technician

Forest Hills, NY · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Experienced Ophthalmic Technician / Scribe Location: Forest Hills, New York This position is for experienced ophthalmic technicians only. Applications without prior ophthalmology or optometry ...

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How much do ophthalmic technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic technician in the United States is $22.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmic technician?

Ophthalmic technicians are allied health professionals who assist ophthalmologists in providing eye care. They perform various tasks such as taking patient histories, conducting vision tests, administering eye medications, and preparing patients for eye procedures. Their role is essential in ensuring efficient and effective eye examinations and treatments. Ophthalmic technicians may also help with minor surgical procedures and the maintenance of ophthalmic instruments.

What does an ophthalmic technician do?

Ophthalmic technicians work alongside ophthalmologists (eye doctors) to provide eye-related clinical care for patients who come in for routine eye exams or particular eye disorders. Ophthalmic technicians take patient medical histories, perform a variety of vision and diagnostic tests, and educate patients about procedures, medications, and home care. In addition to assisting with patient procedures, some ophthalmic technicians also perform office management duties such as scheduling patient appointments.

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

To thrive as an Ophthalmic Technician, you need a thorough understanding of eye anatomy, diagnostic procedures, and clinical support, often gained through a certificate or associate degree in ophthalmic technology. Familiarity with specialized ophthalmic instruments, electronic health records (EHRs), and relevant certifications like Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is highly beneficial. Excellent attention to detail, interpersonal skills, and the ability to comfort patients make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing accurate diagnostic information, supporting ophthalmologists, and ensuring a positive patient experience.

What are some common challenges faced by ophthalmic technicians in a clinical setting?

Ophthalmic Technicians often work in fast-paced environments where they must efficiently manage multiple patient appointments and perform a variety of diagnostic tests. A common challenge is adapting to rapidly evolving technology and equipment, which requires continuous learning and attention to detail. Additionally, technicians frequently collaborate with ophthalmologists and other medical staff to ensure accurate patient assessments, making strong communication skills essential. Balancing administrative duties with patient care can also be demanding, but it provides valuable experience for career growth within the eye care field.

What is the difference between Ophthalmic Technician vs Optician?

AspectOphthalmic TechnicianOptician
CredentialsCertification (COA, COT), high school diploma or equivalentCertification (ABC), high school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentEye clinics, hospitals, ophthalmology officesOptical stores, eyewear retail
Job FocusAssisting ophthalmologists, performing diagnostic testsFitting and dispensing eyewear, customer service

Ophthalmic Technicians and Opticians both work in eye care but have different roles. Ophthalmic Technicians assist ophthalmologists with diagnostics and patient exams, requiring specific certifications. Opticians focus on fitting and selling eyewear, often working in retail settings. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the eye care industry.

How much do ophthalmic technicians make?

Ophthalmic technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $36,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They perform eye tests, assist with patient care, and operate diagnostic equipment in ophthalmology settings.

How much does an ophthalmic technician make?

In Virginia, the average salary for an ophthalmic technician is around $36,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Certification through organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) can enhance earning potential.

Is an ophthalmic technician a good career?

An ophthalmic technician is a valuable healthcare professional who assists ophthalmologists with eye exams, diagnostic tests, and patient care. The role typically requires certification, good technical skills, and offers opportunities for employment in clinics, hospitals, and private practices, with a stable job outlook. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in eye health and patient interaction.

What can ophthalmic technicians do?

Ophthalmic technicians assist ophthalmologists by performing eye tests, measuring visual acuity, preparing patients for exams, and operating diagnostic equipment. They may also educate patients about eye care and help with administrative tasks, often working in clinical or surgical settings. Certification and technical skills are important for performing these duties effectively.

Where do ophthalmic technicians make the most money?

Ophthalmic technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized eye care services. Typically, urban areas and states with a strong healthcare industry offer the highest compensation, especially where ophthalmic practices or hospitals are well-funded and require experienced technicians with certifications such as COA or COT.
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Ophthalmic Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,920 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Ophthalmic Technician

Eyesight Ophthalmic Services

Somersworth, NH • On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

Job Summary:

Eyesight Ophthalmic Services (www.EyesightNH.com) is the Seacoast’s premiere optometric and ophthalmic eye care practice. We are featuring growth opportunities as we fill several openings for Ophthalmic Technicians. These positions are available at our various office locations in Kittery Maine, Portsmouth, Exeter and Somersworth New Hampshire.

OPHTHALMIC TECHNICIAN

Ophthalmic Technician Duties: acquire medical history, administer tests, operate and maintain testing equipment, direct patients during various exams and assist with more complex tests (i.e. refractions), coordinate follow-up care, order / maintain clinic supplies and assist with educating patients on pre and post-operative care and instructions. Experience in the medical field is preferred but not necessary.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE:

Personality for these positions are 99% of the job. Seeking personable, intelligent and positive professionals who enjoy working with people. This role involves face to face, phone and written contact with patients, so good written and verbal skills are essential. This is not a job. This is a career filled with fun and hard working staff who sincerely enjoy their job. This is an MD owned private eye care practice with over 100 employees, 8 Ophthalmologists (MD's) and 6 optometrists (OD's). Good starting salary and benefit package including 401(k) and short term disability.

Our offices are currently open Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm. Each office is open 1 evening until 6:00 pm per week. Ophthalmic Technicians have set hours and usually work out of one main office in Kittery, Portsmouth, Exeter or Somersworth. Candidates should have flexibility to work some evening shifts if necessary and be able to travel to other offices during the week to cover shifts if necessary.

Hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm (based on the needs of patients) and possibly one evening per week 9:00am to 6:00pm.

Job Type: Full-time

Requirements:

Minimum Requirements (education and experience):

  • High School graduate or GED is required.

Preferred:

  • Prior Experience in Ophthalmic office
  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
  • Medical assistant
  • CPR certification

Work Conditions:

  • Constantly moving between patient exam rooms
  • Exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, medicinal preparations and other conditions common to a clinic environment

Physical Requirements:

  • Reaching and operating equipment as required duties referenced above
  • Must be able to access and reach patients
  • Ability to operate office and diagnostic equipment requiring hand and finger dexterity
  • Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects
  • Speak clearly so listeners can understand
  • Ability to communicate with patients – speak with and understand patients
  • Specific vision abilities required include reading small print, seeing near objects and working with computer
  • See differences between colors, shades, and brightness