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Optical Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient ... assist with clerical duties related to medical documentation (participating practices only)

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient ... assist with clerical duties related to medical documentation (participating practices only)

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 · 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

Licensed Optician

Warwick, RI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

Warwick, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

EssilorLuxottica

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Warwick, RI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

EssilorLuxottica

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Essilor

LensCrafters - Licensed Optician

Providence, RI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care.

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Showing results 1-20

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 Aug 15, 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 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 does an optical assistant do?

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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,039 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Optical Associate - South Kingstown

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc

South Kingstown, RI • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

  • This position is based in South Kingstown, RI

    • About Medical Eyeglass Center (MEC)

    At MEC, we partner with leading medical/ophthalmology practices to provide patients with high-quality vision care and eyewear services. Our employees work directly inside medical offices, helping patients select and fit eyewear while creating a positive, professional experience. We pride ourselves on accuracy, customer service, and a patient-first approach that sets us apart.

    Position Overview

    MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you’ll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver outstanding service, and work closely with both patients and clinic staff. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with patient care in a supportive and professional setting.

    What You’ll Do
  • Provide patients with an outstanding eyewear experience, from selection to fitting and adjustments.
  • Accurately process and complete orders through MEC’s pointofsale systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of prescriptions, orders, payments, and insurance claims.
  • Review and track lab orders to ensure timely and accurate completion.
  • Submit insurance claims, post payments, and follow up on outstanding receivables.
  • Dispense prescription and nonprescription eyewear (and contact lenses where applicable.)
  • Assist patients with eyewear adjustments, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Maintain frame inventory, keeping displays organized, clean, and fully stocked.
  • Review daily patient schedules to anticipate volume, insurance eligibility, and sales opportunities.
  • Support inoffice promotions and marketing materials.
  • Build positive working relationships with providers, technicians, and administrative staff.
  • Maintain a professional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
    • What We’re Looking For
  • A friendly, professional, and patientfocused personality.
  • Ability to read and interpret spectacle prescriptions (and contact lenses where applicable).
  • Skilled in eyewear fitting, adjustments, and repairs or willing to learn.
  • Strong customer service and sales skills, including handling objections.
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with MS Excel, email, and insurance portals (preferred).
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Teamoriented with the ability to build effective relationships.
  • Attention to detail and problemsolving mindset.
  • Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning.
    • Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in optical
  • Knowledge of frame adjustments and frame repairs
  • Experience taking accurate measurements (PD, seg height, optical center)
  • Familiarity with optical lab processes and lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive)
  • Experience reading lenses using manual lensometer
  • Ability to handle insurance eligibility checks and authorizations
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when filling prescriptions
  • Ability to multitask in a fastpaced environment
  • Basic computer skills and experience with EHR or optical POS systems

    • Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

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