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Optical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boots

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Chesterfield, VA

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Bedford, IN

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Eye Care Center of TN

Optical Assistant

Antioch, TN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Antioch Eye Care Center is looking for a friendly, dependable, and motivated Optical Assistant to join our growing team! We are seeking someone with previous optical, optometry, ophthalmology ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Chesterfield, VA

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

Boots

Optical Assistant

Bedford, IN

About the role As an Optical Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. You will be based in store ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Assistant Jobs

Optical Assistant information

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How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Assistant vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AssistantOptical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, optical assistant certificationCertification or diploma in optical technology or related field
Work EnvironmentOptical retail stores, clinicsLaboratories, manufacturing, or repair facilities
Employer & Industry UsageOptical retail chains, optometristsOptical labs, manufacturing companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentCustomer service, assisting with frame selectionLens fitting, equipment operation, technical repairs

Optical Assistants primarily focus on customer service, frame selection, and assisting optometrists, often working directly with patients. Optical Technicians handle more technical tasks like lens fitting, equipment operation, and repairs. Both roles are essential in the optical industry but differ in technical complexity and responsibilities.

What are Optical Assistants?

Optical Assistants are professionals who work in optician practices or eye care clinics, supporting optometrists and dispensing opticians. They assist customers with selecting and fitting eyewear, perform basic eye tests, and handle administrative tasks such as booking appointments and managing patient records. Optical Assistants also provide advice on lens options, frame styles, and eyewear care. Their role is essential in ensuring patients receive excellent service and the right vision solutions.

What Is an Optical Assistant?

An optical assistant is a vision care customer’s first point of contact, as you work in the retail or sales departments or optometrist’s offices. In this career, you are responsible for greeting patients and helping them select the right eyewear as well as repairing and making adjustments to the eyewear. Assistants perform duties such as fitting eyeglasses or contacts under supervision, measuring an eye or bridge of the nose, scheduling appointments, gathering important patient information, and maintaining medical files. Customer service is an important part of the job.

What are the typical daily tasks for an Optical Assistant, and how do they interact with other team members in an optometry practice?

As an Optical Assistant, your daily responsibilities include greeting patients, assisting with frame selection, taking basic eye measurements, and handling administrative duties such as booking appointments and managing patient records. You’ll work closely with optometrists, opticians, and other support staff to ensure smooth patient flow and excellent customer service. Collaboration is key, as Optical Assistants often communicate patient needs to clinical staff and help coordinate care. This role offers valuable exposure to both clinical and retail aspects of optometry, making it a great starting point for career growth within the industry.

What do you do as an optical assistant?

An optical assistant helps customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, takes measurements, and assists with frame adjustments. They often perform administrative tasks, prepare prescriptions, and support optometrists or ophthalmologists in clinical settings. Good communication skills and knowledge of optical products are important for this role.

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

To thrive as an Optical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of basic optometry, customer service, and retail sales, often supported by on-the-job training or a relevant certification. Familiarity with dispensing optical instruments, using lens measuring devices, and practice management software is typically required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with both customers and team members distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate prescription fulfillment, excellent customer experiences, and smooth optical practice operations.

Do you need qualifications to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not require formal qualifications, but having a relevant qualification such as a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma in optical retail or ophthalmic dispensing can improve job prospects. Employers often value good communication skills, basic math, and customer service experience. On-the-job training is common for new optical assistants.

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

An optical assistant typically earns between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The role often requires knowledge of optical equipment and customer service skills.

Do I need a degree to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not need a degree but should have good communication skills and basic knowledge of optical products. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and relevant certifications can enhance job prospects. Formal education requirements vary by employer and location.
More about Optical Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs? The most popular types of Optical jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? The top employers for Optical Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs are:
Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,758 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Student Optical Assistant

Student Optical Assistant

University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$11/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Student Optical Assistant
Academic Year
2026-2027
UIW Mission
University of the Incarnate Word is a Catholic institution that welcomes to its community persons of diverse backgrounds, in the belief that their respectful interaction advances the discovery of truth, mutual understanding, self-realization, and the common good.
Position Summary
The Student Optical Assistant provides support to the optical staff at any of our locations. The Student Optical Assistant keeps the optical department organized and clean and assists optical sales and coordinates order pick-up. The student optical assistant reports to the Optical Manager.
This position will be assigned to either RSO Bowden Eye Care and Health Center (2547 E. Commerce St. SA. TX 78203), or UIW Eye Institute (9725 Datapoint Dr. SA. TX. 78229)
Essential Functions
  • Manages phone lines and messages.
  • Organizes and stocks dispensary.
  • Manages incoming and outgoing mail.
  • Assists clients with optical sales.
  • Scans paperwork into EHR.
  • Troubleshoots delayed orders.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
  • Basic understanding of computer functions and electronic health records.
  • Customer service skills.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Punctuality.
  • A basic understanding of HIPAA policy and procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures.
  • Employee shall adhere to all applicable rules and regulations of the University, the Conference, and the NCAA.

Required Education
Current UIW student
Required Work Experience
Previous work experience in an office or retail setting, however, optical experience is not necessary, on-the-job training is provided.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in a retail environment.
Required Certifications, Licenses or Registrations
None.
Work Hours
  • Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, with two Saturdays (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) a month.
  • A minimum of ten hours per week is required.
  • The schedule for the student assistant will be determined based on availability and the class schedule.

Physical Demands
Cleaning the optical dispensary and repair of broken eyewear, ability to lift 20 lb. boxes on occasion.

Apply