ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

VSP Vision

Optician 2 (Irvine Optometry)

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

... Assist customers in the selection of frames and coordinate frames with optical measurements and prescription Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings, and frames to suit customer needs, occupations ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptical JobsOptical Assistant JobsOptical Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Optical Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$17

$21

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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 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:

Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,262 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

VCS Health Tech- (Optician)- Loma Linda CA

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Loma Linda, CA • On-site

$56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is seeking experienced and motivated Health Tech (Opticians) to support operations within VCS Optical Shops at the Loma Linda or Hemet, CA VA Medical Center.
This position plays a critical role in delivering exceptional service by coordinating optical operations and serving as a key liaison between VCS, eye clinic providers and prosthetics teams. Join us and help enhance the experience for our Nation's Veterans.Qualifications:

Licensure & Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of experience working as an Optician required.
Independent Work Capability: Demonstrated ability to work independently while managing responsibilities efficiently and maintaining high standards of patient service.
Prescription Interpretation & Problem Resolution: Ability to identify prescription discrepancies or anomalies and take appropriate corrective action to ensure accuracy and patient satisfaction.
Optical Verification & Quality Assurance: Skilled in identifying and resolving optical issues, including prescription verification, transitions verification, optical center alignment, segment height accuracy, and appropriate frame selection.
Technical Equipment & Tools Proficiency:
Proficient in the use of optical equipment and tools, including:

  • Adjustment and bench tools
  • Lensometer and lens clock
  • Frame heater
  • PD ruler and pupilometer
  • Penlight and interpupillary measuring devices
  • Frame and lens cleaning products
  • Thickness caliper
  • Vertex densometer
  • Tolerance charts
  • Visual acuity charts
Identification Requirement: A current, valid REAL ID is required to work with the Veterans Canteen Service.Education:Education Requirement: High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) required.Employment Type: OTHER

Apply