1

Optical Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Optical Test Engineer: Responsible for supporting laser safety, optical laboratory operations, and ... testing. * Assist manufacturing and process engineering in determining Cpk for new processes.

Optician - Tigard Vision Center

Tigard, OR

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Coachable attitude--ready to learn and grow in the optical field * Flexibility and adaptability to meet changing patient needs and office demands * Professional phone etiquette and a warm ...

Coachable attitude-ready to learn and grow in the optical field * Flexibility and adaptability to meet changing patient needs and office demands * Professional phone etiquette and a warm ...

Optician, Rainbow Optics

Eugene, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Acts as a leader in optical acumen that provides a voice for peers. * Takes and records measurements, adjusts or fits eyewear correctly, thorough and exact in details; ensures finished eyewear meets ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Oregon is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.33 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 Oregon? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Oregon? For Optical Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 24% Full Time, 62% 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 $36,750 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Optical Manager, East Portland (21143)

Optical Manager, East Portland (21143)

EyeHealth Northwest

Portland, OR

Other

Posted 29 days ago


EyeHealth Northwest rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Summary

Supervise and coordinate the work of opticians. Perform the work of an optician as needed by providing product information and assisting them in selecting the right eyeglasses to fit their visual needs and lifestyle. Generate sales by promoting products and services. Assist in the implementation of policies, procedures and product promotions.  Perform work with a focus on effective communication with the patient, coworkers and the physician.  Demonstrate cooperation with coworkers while striving to ensure the highest level of patient care and “customer service,” representing EHN in a professional manner at all times.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position directly supervises non-supervisory employees and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with EHN and clinic policies, procedures and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning and assigning work schedules; appraising performance; coaching and developing employees; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist in defining and implement department policies and procedures.
  • Ensure the work of opticians is performed in accordance to established policies, procedures and protocol.
  • Ensure that services and products are appropriate to meeting patient needs and work is performed in an efficient, timely and accurate manner.
  • Assist patients by performing optician responsibilities:  Greet patients; provide World Class customer service by making patients feel welcome and exhibiting a genuine desire to assist patients; is helpful, attentive and responsive; present a professional and respectful demeanor at all times.
  • Assess patients’ optical needs; make recommendations on eyeglasses and accessories, and customize the fit of eyeglasses.
  • Support opticians in their responsibilities by troubleshooting difficult orders.
  • Merchandise product and keep the showroom neat and clean.
  • Manage the frame boards in clinics
  • Train new hires
  • Review and approve miscellaneous discounts and Doctor’s orders.
  • Process payment and accounts payable paperwork.
  • Process spiffs and deductions on time for payroll
  • Generate sales by promoting products and services.
  • Organize and execute frame reconciliations quarterly for the locations in your group.
  • Lead team meetings to train staff and set expectations
  • Coordinate with the clinic operations manager and providers to ensure outstanding patient care and service.
  • Demonstrate team values through cooperation and consideration of coworkers; foster goodwill among coworkers by providing assistance when needed and sharing information that helps others do their jobs; interact with tact, courtesy and diplomacy.
  • Effectively communicate with patients, coworkers and doctors; share information appropriately and complete the communication circle with follow-up as needed; communicate in a positive, upbeat manner while refraining from complaining, gossiping, or engaging in conversations of a negative tone. 
  • Perform work in compliance with company policy, department procedures and regulatory requirements, including HIPPA and OSHA.
Secondary Functions
  • Other duties which may be necessary or desirable to serve the patient and support the success of the department or the company overall.
Education and/or Experience; Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations (Minimum Requirements)
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification required or the ability to acquire within 12 months of employment.
  • A minimum of two (3) years experience as an optician.
  • A minimum of one (1) year of lead/supervisory experience, or
  • An equivalent combination of education, experience and training that would provide the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the successful performance of the essential job duties.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to effectively guide and motivate staff.
  • Ability to manage staff and resources in an effective and efficient manner.
  • Must possess strong math skills with ability to calculate geometry and algebra equations.
  • Knowledge and understanding of optical terminology.
  • Ability to analyze information and use logic to resolve issues and problems.
  • Ability to use good judgment and make sound decisions.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and interact in a professional and respectful manner with physicians, staff, vendors and patients at all times.
  • Skill in handing difficult patients successfully and respectfully, expert at problem solving
  • Must be highly skilled with a manual lensometer, able to read high powers and complex prism
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to work a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends, and a willingness to rotate to various worksites as needed.
Physical Demands / Work Environment
  • Majority of work is performed in a general office environment. Exposure to moderate levels of noise in a well-lit, well-ventilated and moderately paced environment.
  • This position requires manual/finger dexterity as necessary to perform daily job duties.
  • Occasionally required to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.
  • Occasionally required to sit for extended periods of time.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; lift, push, pull and/or carry objects up to 20 pounds.
Reasonable Accommodations

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


What EyeHealth Northwest employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom