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Optical Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mesh Optical Technologies

Optical Test Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will ... Compile and analyze data sets to identify trends in performance * Assist with validation activities ...

Mesh Optical Technologies

Optical Test Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will ... Compile and analyze data sets to identify trends in performance * Assist with validation activities ...

United Health Centers

Optical Technician

Fowler, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Experienced Medical Assistants and/or new Medical Assistant graduates are welcomed! Our Optical Technicians work directly with our Optometrist provider and they strive to go above and beyond, take ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Colton, CA · On-site

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Chino, CA · On-site

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Colton, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $21.97/hr

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Colton, CA · On-site

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Marina, CA · On-site

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Optical

Marina, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $21.97/hr

Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions. * Assist the General Manager with forecasting ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$107K - $195K/yr

You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance analysis, assist with design trades and system-level evaluations, and support the development of compact, high-performance payloads. You ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance analysis, assist with design trades and system-level evaluations, and support the development of compact, high-performance payloads. You ...

Leidos

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

You will contribute to optical system modeling and performance analysis, assist with design trades and system-level evaluations, and support the development of compact, high-performance payloads. You ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Assistant JobsOptical Assistant Jobs in California

Optical Assistant information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$19

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in California is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.03 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in California? The most popular types of Optical jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in California? For Optical Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,303 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Optical Assistant

LARRY J GOTTLIEB INC A PROFESSIONAL

Lakewood, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Great Work Environment
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced optical employee to join our team! .  As an assistant to our Opticians you will check in patients,  answer phones, make appointments, pull insurance authorizations, and troubleshoot patients needs to assign to the appropriate team member. The ideal candidate has exceptional customer service skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and in-depth knowledge of the inner workings of an optometrist’s office.  
Responsibilities 
  • Work our front desk, answering phones, checking in patients, direct patients through their appointments. 
  • Greet our patients with a smile and professional appearance and attitude.
  • Operate under all HIPPA and confidentiality regulations
Qualifications
  • Previous optometrist’s experience 
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong understanding of HIPPA 
  • Strong customer service skills