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Optical Assistant Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories that fit their prescription, lifestyle, and personal style. By ensuring proper frame fit, accurate measurements, and correct ...

Optician

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories that fit their prescription, lifestyle, and personal style. By ensuring proper frame fit, accurate measurements, and correct ...

As an Assistant Practice Manager, you'll inspire and support the team, deliver exceptional patient ... Learn and support key practice roles, which may include patient care coordination, optical sales ...

As an Assistant Practice Manager, you'll inspire and support the team, deliver exceptional patient ... Learn and support key practice roles, which may include patient care coordination, optical sales ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Saco, ME · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

FISBA is a global company dedicated to shaping light through excellence in optical design, system ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

FISBA is a global company dedicated to shaping light through excellence in optical design, system ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Senior NOC Technician

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to NOC Technicians * Assist in developing troubleshooting ... Optical Transport Networks * Broadband Technologies * Fiber Access Networks * DWDM and Transport ...

About the Role As an Administrative Assistant in the exciting world of Semiconductor Manufacturing, you will multi-task and work with cross-functional groups every day, as part of a diverse, skilled ...

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About the Role As an Administrative Assistant in the exciting world of Semiconductor Manufacturing, you will multi-task and work with cross-functional groups every day, as part of a diverse, skilled ...

Patient Care Coordinator

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Coordinate with clinical and optical teams to ensure smooth patient transitions and continuity of ... Perform other duties as needed and as assigned by the Practice Manager, Assistant Practice Manager ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Portland, ME salary details

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How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Portland, ME is $17.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $18.94 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Portland, ME are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Optical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,181 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

$18 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


AEG Vision rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

About AEG:
At AEG, we're building something bigger than great eye care, we're creating careers, developing leaders, and making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.
You'll join a team that:
  • Invests in leadership development and internal growth.
  • Believes people and performance go hand in hand.
  • Values collaboration, authenticity, and continuous learning.
  • Celebrates wins, supports challenges, and grows together.

About the role
At AEG, we believe great patient experiences begin with great teams. As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care.
The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories that fit their prescription, lifestyle, and personal style. By ensuring proper frame fit, accurate measurements, and correct lens dispensing, Opticians will combine technical expertise with outstanding customer service. A commitment to quality and patient satisfaction drives trust, loyalty, and repeat business.
  • Delivers extraordinary experience to each patient. Provides patients with a complete understanding of our customized recommendations for products and services.
  • Receive patient handoff from technicians or doctors and establish a rapport by asking lifestyle questions to identify their visual needs and recommend the most appropriate frames, lenses, lens treatments, and specialty products.
  • Keeps current on company/industry products and procedures, manufacturer rebates, and types of lenses and frames available.
  • Takes and returns patient calls, updating patients on the status of their order and resolving order issues should they arise. Escalates any issues to management.
  • Assist patients in selecting frames, lens type, and lens treatments including tints and coatings; depending on specific patient needs and facial measurements.
  • Educate patients on proper eyeglass and contact lens care, maintenance, warranty coverage, protection plans and replacement options.
  • Maintain a thorough understanding of both medical and vision insurance plans, including eligibility, benefits, copays, deductibles, authorizations, and coverage limitations.
  • Interprets prescriptions written by Optometrist and Ophthalmologist.
  • Accurately interpret prescriptions written by Optometrists and Ophthalmologists. Enter all prescription information into the Electronic Health Record (EHR) and ALE system while ensuring all required documentation is scanned and attached to the patient's chart.
  • Follow-up on all pending orders. Verify all orders are within the time guidelines and informs patients if delays occurs. Notify patients when eyewear is ready.
  • Dispense glasses by inspecting the product, checking for proper fit, adjusting if necessary, and asking for feedback.
  • Adjust eyewear to ensure visual acuity, proper fit, and patient comfort by using various tools to perform eyewear adjustments and repairs.
  • Proficient in using tools such as pupilometers, PD sticks, lensometers, pliers, wrenches, frame warmers, etc.
  • Regularly communicates with technicians and managers, providing additional patient information, or asking for an order status.
  • Inspects the final product ensuring there are no flaws; clean and polish lenses.
  • Clean and organize frame boards, displays, mirrors, work bench, office area, maintaining overall cleanliness and visual appeal of the practice.
  • Understands product issues and analyzes any problems. Thoroughly and accurately answer patient questions regarding insurance, warranty, products, materials, services, pricing, upgrades, promotions, etc.
  • Performs other duties as needed and as assigned by manager.

  • High School or GED qualification.
  • ABO/NCLE preferred but not required.
  • Minimum of one-year experience working as an Optician strongly preferred.
  • Experience with HIPAA requirements preferred.
  • PC skills to include MC Office, Windows, and Word Processing.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Excellent customer service skills and pleasant demeanor, experience with sales preferred.
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

Full Time Employee Benefits
  • 401(k) with Match
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/STD/LTD
  • Employee Vision Discount Program
  • HSA/FSA
  • PTO
  • Paid Holidays

Physical Demands
  • Ability to utilize office equipment
  • Prolonged sitting, standing, and walking
  • Ability to lift up to 10 lbs

What AEG Vision employees say

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