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Optical Assistant Jobs in Austin, MN (NOW HIRING)

Hëda

Optometrist

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

Additional programs to assist with educational commitments. * Comprehensive Benefits: A full benefits package including malpractice insurance. * Professional Growth: CE (Continuing Education ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Austin, MN salary details

$9

$16

$19

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Austin, MN is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Do you need a qualification to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not require formal qualifications, but having relevant training or certifications in optical care or customer service can be beneficial. Employers may also provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills for working with optical equipment and assisting customers.

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 involves customer service, lens fitting, and using optical equipment.
More about Optical Assistant jobs

What cities near Austin, MN are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Austin, MN with the most Optical Assistant job openings:

Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Austin, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,845 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Doctor Of Optometry - Albert Lea, MN

Albert Lea, MN • On-site

Shopko Optical
Fitness and Sports Centers • 1 - 5K employees

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 40 rated optical retailers

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks

Learn more about Shopko Opticalexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Shopko Optical Optometrist Opportunity

Shopko Optical is currently seeking an Optometrist to join our team! Join an experienced, cohesive team at our Albert Lea, MN location. You will have the autonomy to build the practice that you want. At Shopko, we support our doctors and enable them to develop meaningful relationships in the communities they serve. We also provide full ancillary support including screening and patient billing, so our doctors can focus their time on what matters most, providing great patient care.

Practice Highlights:

  • No Call Position
  • Dedicated Staff to Support Patient Care
  • Comprehensive Eye Exams
  • Contact Lens Fitting
  • Refractive Services
  • Diagnose, Treat, and Manage Eye Disease
  • Cataract and Refractive Surgery Co-Management

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive Guaranteed Salary While You Grow Your Practice
  • Sign on Bonus (Full-Time Employment)
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Generous CME Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Away to ensure exceptional work/life balance
  • Occurrence Based Malpractice Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Unique Voluntary Benefits (i.e. Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Theft Protection)
  • Retirement - 401K

About the Community:

Albert Lea, Minnesota is a picturesque community surrounded by beautiful lakes and parks, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking, along with a vibrant downtown featuring unique shops, restaurants, and cultural events. The city boasts excellent schools, affordable living, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for families and professionals alike. With its scenic beauty and strong sense of community, Albert Lea is a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

Shopko Optical CARES is the way we serve every patient. Connect, create comfort through connection with each patient. Assess, ask the right questions to help create a complete picture of what each patient needs. Recommend, develop personalized care plans for each patient. Educate, explain the 'why' to demonstrate our commitment to providing high quality eye care to each patient. See It Through, consistent follow-up builds trust with each patient.

About Shopko Optical: Shopko Optical began in 1978 as part of the Shopko retail chain, introducing in-store eye care and prescription eyewear services. In 2019, Shopko Optical transitioned into freestanding optical centers, continuing its mission to provide comprehensive, patient-focused eye care. Today, Shopko Optical operates across multiple states, offering advanced eye exams, eyewear, and contact lenses in a comfortable, community-oriented setting. With over 40 years of experience, Shopko Optical remains committed to delivering trusted vision care and personalized service.

Minimum Knowledge, Experience & Skills Requirements:

  • OD Degree from ACOE approved College of Optometry
  • Ability to communicate with customers and teammates
  • Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status.
  • Shopko Optical is an Equal Opportunity Employer functioning under an Affirmative Action Plan m/f/d/v

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