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Optical Assistant Jobs in Shellsburg, IA (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders. * Checking completed orders for accuracy. * Ordering contact lens materials. * Educate patients on contact lenses. * Travel to other ...

Ophthalmic Assistant

Cedar Rapids, IA

$17.50 - $23/hr

Iowa Eye Center in Cedar Rapids is now hiring for an Ophthalmic Assistant! Iowa Eye Center is a ... Discount in Optical Shop * 401K retirement with Profit Sharing If you want to join our company and ...

... * Assist the project team with installation activities as needed * Terminate and breakout outside fiber * Pull and splice OSP high-count fiber optic cables * Proactively maintain job site ...

Fiber Splicer - Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $29/hr

... * Assist the project team with installation activities as needed * Terminate and breakout outside fiber * Pull and splice OSP high-count fiber optic cables * Proactively maintain job site ...

Fiber Splicer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $29/hr

... * Assist the project team with installation activities as needed * Terminate and breakout outside fiber * Pull and splice OSP high-count fiber optic cables * Proactively maintain job site ...

Join E2 Optics as a Data Center Infrastructure Technician! Are you ready to elevate your career ... Begin RJ45 connector and patch panel terminations with guidance. * Assist in labeling and cable ...

Fiber Splicer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$24.50 - $29/hr

... * Assist the project team with installation activities as needed * Terminate and breakout outside fiber * Pull and splice OSP high-count fiber optic cables * Proactively maintain job site ...

Senior Materials Handler

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Why E2 Optics? Advance Your Career with E2 Optics Are you ready to elevate your career with an ... Perform inventory cycle counts and update inventory management systems with accuracy. * Assist in ...

Senior Materials Handler

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

E2 Optics is one of the fastest-growing and most stable companies at the core of the tech industry ... Perform inventory cycle counts and update inventory management systems with accuracy. * Assist in ...

New

Develop, update, implement and deploy the E2 Optics QMS in accordance to the program structure across the site and assist other program sites to implement as requested. * Train and coach QA/QC ...

Why E2 Optics? Step Into the Future with E2 Optics! Are you ready to elevate your career with an ... In conjunction with Project Managers, assist Field Supervisors and Lead Technicians with planning ...

Senior Materials Handler

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

E2 Optics is one of the fastest-growing and most stable companies at the core of the tech industry ... Perform inventory cycle counts and update inventory management systems with accuracy. * Assist in ...

New

E2 Optics is one of the fastest-growing and most stable companies at the core of the tech industry ... In conjunction with Project Managers, assist Field Supervisors and Lead Technicians with planning ...

Develop, update, implement and deploy the E2 Optics QMS in accordance to the program structure across the site and assist other program sites to implement as requested. * Train and coach QA/QC ...

Material Handler - Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

... * Assist with data collection, reporting and document management * The individual in this role should be able and willing to travel if required by E2 Optics What We Are Looking For * High school ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Shellsburg, IA salary details

$8

$15

$18

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Shellsburg, IA is $15.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $16.83 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 cities near Shellsburg, IA are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Shellsburg, IA with the most Optical Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Shellsburg, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,003 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Wolfe Eye Clinic rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Optician

In medical practice since 1919, Wolfe Eye Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic providing surgical services and vision care throughout Iowa. At Wolfe Eye Clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life.

We have an immediate opening for a full-time optician based in our Waterloo clinic.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting patients with frame selection.
  • Fitting and ordering appropriate spectacle lens materials.
  • Dispensing, adjusting, and fixing glasses for patients.
  • Maintaining organization of optical area.  
  • Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders.
  • Checking completed orders for accuracy.
  • Ordering contact lens materials.
  • Educate patients on contact lenses.
  • Travel to other locations as needed.
  • Performing other duties as needed.

Qualifications include:

  • Ability to demonstrate strong patient service skills.
  • Ability to portray a professional attitude and appearance.
  • Ability to demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred (but not required) qualifications are:

  • Previous optical experience preferred, but willing to train the right candidate.

Travel Requirements:

  • Travel as scheduled to our Cedar Falls Clinic.
  • When traveling mileage and time on the road will be reimbursed.

If you are interested in being part of a quality driven organization while receiving a competitive wage, please apply.

EOE


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