1

Optical Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Optical Sales Associate

Escanaba, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions · Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally · Assist patients with proper frame repairs and ...

Optical Sales Associate

Iron Mountain, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions · Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally · Assist patients with proper frame repairs and ...

Optical Sales Associate

Houghton, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions · Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally · Assist patients with proper frame repairs and ...

PT Optical Sales Associate

Houghton, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions · Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally · Assist patients with proper frame repairs and ...

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI

$118K - $153K/yr

Ensure that optical designs can be tooled, manufactured, and meet legal and customer requirements ... Analyze off-tool parts, perform root cause analysis, and assist in certification of lamps.

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

FMVSS 108, ECE, CCC, and SAE standards. • Assist in design of manufacturing tools, fixtures and processes that are required to build and service the optical sub-systems. • Evaluate parts, optical ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Company Description Founded in 1982, Trialon Corporation was established to assist companies with ... Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Company Description Founded in 1982, Trialon Corporation was established to assist companies with ... Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive ...

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 ...

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 ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Designing and specifying optical components and modules such as lasers, LEDs, optical filters, cameras, sensors, and lens assemblies * Creating specification documents and working with vendors to ...

Optical Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$84K - $144K/yr

Designing and specifying optical components and modules such as lasers, LEDs, optical filters, cameras, sensors, and lens assemblies * Creating specification documents and working with vendors to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$14

$17

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Michigan is $14.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $15.91 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Michigan? For Optical Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,295 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Optical Sales Associate

Optical Sales Associate

Shopko Optical

Escanaba, MI • On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Shopko Optical rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Escanaba, MI.

On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide excellent patient and customer service in the selection, ordering and dispensing of eyewear. Complete pre-screening activities prior to patient exams. Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients

  • Competitive Wages & Sales Incentives
  • Competitive time off package including vacation pay, volunteer pay paid holidays, and a personal day
  • Sick Pay: Eligible teammates accrue Sick/ Safe leave per state law
  • Health & Wellbeing Benefits Medical, Life, Dental, vision, Short- & Long-term Disability
  • Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • On the Job Training & Certification
  • Teammate Recognition Program

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

CUSTOMER SERVICE

· Provide excellent customer and patient service according to company and Optical Center standards

· Analyze patient eyewear needs

· Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings and frames to satisfy patient needs

· Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions

· Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally

· Assist patients with proper frame repairs and adjustments

· Show patients how to insert, remove and care for their contact lenses

· Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS

· Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims

· Explain promotions and special lens offerings to patients and customers

· Balance accounts

· Prepare work orders containing specific instructions for Optical Lab

· Process medical billing information

· Ensure proper merchandising of frame inventory

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

· High School Graduate or equivalent

· Maintain license as required by state

· To become Certified, teammate must complete Shopko OCE Certification requirements and calendar modules

· Previous experience in an office and/or optical dispensing is preferred

· Able to handle multiple customer interactions/phone calls at a time

· Able to work with patient eyewear needs including analyzing prescriptions, repairs and adjustments and lifestyle dispensing

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

· Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication

· Able to read and write at a high school graduate level

· Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time

· Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)

· Ability to lift 10 to 20 pounds

· Ability to see (Near, Distance, Color, and Depth Perception)

· Manual and finger dexterity, as well as hand/arm steadiness

· Ability to grip and hold items

· Good eye and hand coordination

· Able to operate a cash register, various optical equipment and tools

· Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines

· Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.


What Shopko Optical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom