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Optical Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Optical Center Manager

Hesperia, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial ... Make suggestions on frames, and assist patients in choosing the best option for them * Take facial ...

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

Meet optical productivity and financial goals * Assists patients in the selection of their eyewear ... * Assist patients to order their contact lens prescription * Measures patients head, face, and ...

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... What You'll Do * Assist customers with eyeglass and contact lens dispensing, including contact lens ...

Licensed Optician

Perris, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $26.51/hr

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... What You'll Do * Assist customers with eyeglass and contact lens dispensing, including contact lens ...

Licensed Optician - Part Time

Riverside, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $26.51/hr

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... What You'll Do * Assist customers with eyeglass and contact lens dispensing, including contact lens ...

Licensed Optician - Bilingual

Perris, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $26.51/hr

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... What You'll Do * Assist customers with eyeglass and contact lens dispensing, including contact lens ...

Assistant Manager - Bilingual

Chino, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $21.97/hr

Each location combines both parts of the optical equation - eyewear and eye care - into one ... Assistant Eyeglass Managers keep customers coming back by providing a positive experience from ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

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How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Riverside, CA is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $19.04 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA? For Optical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 23% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,262 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Optician / Front Desk

MACIAS EYE MEDICAL CENTERS

Fontana, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Great Work Environment
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
Job Summary
We are seeking an Optician to join our team! As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial measurements, and help them pick out eyewear and contact lenses based on their specific requirements. You will also help them learn about their new products, explain pricing and insurance coverage, and follow all HIPPA and confidentiality regulations closely. The ideal candidate has exceptional customer service skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and in-depth knowledge of the inner workings of an optometrist’s office.  

Responsibilities 
  • Meet and talk with patients to learn their needs for eyewear
  • Answer phones and make appointments/recalls
  • Make suggestions on frames, and assist patients in choosing the best option for them
  • Take facial measurements to ensure a perfect frame fit
  • Prepare specific orders for the ophthalmic lab 
  • Explain pricing, insurance, and payment options to the patient thoroughly
  • Operate under all HIPPA and confidentiality regulations
Qualifications
  • Previous optician/front desk experience required
  • License with the state
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong understanding of HIPPA 
  • Strong customer service skills
  • SPANISH SPEAKING REQUIRED