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Optical Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary * Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or ...

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary * Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or ...

Vision Associates Inc

Licensed Optician

Warwick, RI · On-site

... optical dispensary management at their location. Licensed Opticians will work independently within the Koch Eye Associates Warwick location with the full support of the Vision Associates Network.

Visionworks

Retail Licensed Optician

Narragansett, RI · On-site

$25.50 - $38.25/hr

Utilizing technical information to interpret prescription to assist customer with selection of optical products and services. Pay Class and Pay Pay Class: Full Time Pay: $25.50 - $38.25 per hour ...

Essilor

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Our extensive background in the optical industry enables us to provide solutions that promote growth and profitability. In partnership with our clients', our foremost objective is to deliver complete ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Assistant JobsOptical Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Optical Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$9

$16

$19

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Rhode Island is $16.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $17.88 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Rhode Island are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,039 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Apprentice Optician

Apprentice Optician

Vision Associates Inc

Warwick, RI • On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

An Apprentice Optician is responsible for all facets of the dispensary while maintaining the highest level of customer service. Ensuring our patients have the best experience is a priority. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, organized and detail-oriented with an ability to multitask while working in a fast-paced environment. This position requires a commitment to teamwork and provides a great opportunity to join a growing and successful company. The Apprentice Optician will be expected to learn and support the policies and procedures necessary for opening, closing, and operating the dispensary.Responsibilities
  • Meet and/or exceed pre-established company goals for Sales, Collections, KPIs and Patient Experience expectations
  • Must perform all responsibilities as an Apprentice Optician
  • Listen and respond immediately with an appropriate level of concern to all patient and practice issues
  • Analyze, solve, and correct customer service issues
  • Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary
  • Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or practice satisfaction to their District Manager
  • Foster positive working relationships with the practice doctors, leadership and staff
  • You may from time to time be required to perform tasks not specifically listed here, but the company will ensure that you have received adequate training and support to facilitate such assigned tasks
Required Skills
  • Previous experience in retail and/or optical industry
  • State registration, licensure and certifications (where applicable)
  • Effective interpersonal skills
  • Excellent problem solving abilities
  • Strong communication skills (verbal & written), including strong relationship building skills
  • Ability to adjust priorities and manage time wisely in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to communicate in a clear concise and understandable manner