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Optical Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Tama, IA · On-site

$38K - $58K/yr

Interpret eyeglass prescriptions and assist patients in selecting appropriate eyewear based on ... Take precise measurements necessary for eyewear, including pupillary distance, optical center ...

Manager - Optical Center

Harlan, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Optical Center Manager

Harlan, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Manager - Optical Center

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Licensed Optical Manager

Harlan, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Optical Center Manager

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Optician

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders. * Checking completed orders for accuracy. * Ordering contact lens materials. * Educate patients on contact lenses. * Travel to other ...

Optical Center Manager

Glenwood, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Optical Center Manager

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Licensed Optical Manager

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Optical Center Manager

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$18

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Iowa is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.16 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 also handle administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining optical equipment, often working under the supervision of an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

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.

What do you need to be an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with ophthalmic equipment are important for the role. Some positions may require on-the-job training or certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

An optical assistant typically earns between $20,000 and $35,000 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. Salaries often include benefits such as training and opportunities for certification in optical dispensing.

How to get a job as an optical assistant?

To become an optical assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as a dispensing optician license. Experience in customer service and basic knowledge of optical products and tools are beneficial, and some employers offer on-the-job training for new hires.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Optical Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 67% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,647 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

$38K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Optician DEPARTMENT: Health
CLASSIFICATION: Non-exempt
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Interpret eyeglass prescriptions and assist patients in selecting appropriate eyewear based on prescription, patient needs
  • Managing the ordering of frames and lenses, follow up on lab work as necessary
  • Adjust, repair, and dispense eyewear and inspect quality before dispensing
  • Take precise measurements necessary for eyewear, including pupillary distance, optical center/segment height
  • Educate patients on proper glasses maintenance and care and adaptation to new prescriptions
  • Maintain accurate patient records using electronic health records
  • Coordinate closely with optometrist and other staff to ensure smooth patient flow
  • Assists in keeping frame inventory, along with organizing and maintaining frame display area throughout the workday
  • Assist with vision plan billing for eyewear
  • Possibility of assisting with other clinical/patient care duties in eye clinic when needed
  • Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) required
  • Minimum two years experience in optician role including experience with ordering and dispensing eyeglasses, adjusting eyeglasses, general optometric knowledge
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent time management skills with ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
  • Commitment to teamwork with ability to work independently, willingness to help out with other tasks as needed throughout the eye clinic
  • Must have general computer skills, including knowledge on operating Microsoft Office products
  • Ability to accurately record information in electronic health records
  • Must respect Meskwaki cultural beliefs
  • Must submit to and successfully complete background investigation

SUPERVISION:
  • Direct supervision by Optometrist

SALARY LEVEL:
  • Annual Salary Range: $38,126.40 - $58,198.40