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Optical Assistant Jobs in Shellsburg, IA (NOW HIRING)

MP Nexlevel

DATA CENTER ADMIN ASSISTANT

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

The Data Center Admin Assistant will work closely with the Project Manager and project teams to ensure the successful planning, coordination, and execution of utility construction projects. This role ...

MP

DATA CENTER ADMIN ASSISTANT

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

The Data Center Admin Assistant will work closely with the Project Manager and project teams to ensure the successful planning, coordination, and execution of utility construction projects. This role ...

NTI Connect LLC

Technician

Cedar Rapids, IA · Remote

... environment. * Assist with the installation of copper and fiber cabling, pathway systems, and ... BICSI or Fiber Optic Association training or certification considered a plus. Supervisory ...

Altorfer CAT

Fluid Analysis Admin

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Working Hours/Days 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday - Friday, overtime as approved per workload Basic Duties * Work closely with supervisor in daily organization and handling of samples, as well as data ...

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All JobsOptical Assistant JobsOptical Assistant Jobs in Shellsburg, IA

Optical Assistant information

See Shellsburg, IA salary details

$8

$15

$18

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 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 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 also handle administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and maintaining optical equipment, often working under the supervision of an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

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 do you need to be an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with ophthalmic equipment are important for the role. Some positions may require on-the-job training or certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

An optical assistant typically earns between $20,000 and $35,000 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. Salaries often include benefits such as training and opportunities for certification in optical dispensing.

How to get a job as an optical assistant?

To become an optical assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as a dispensing optician license. Experience in customer service and basic knowledge of optical products and tools are beneficial, and some employers offer on-the-job training for new hires.
More about Optical Assistant jobs
What cities near Shellsburg, IA are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities near Shellsburg, IA with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Shellsburg, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 21% Full Time, 65% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.
AbbeHealth Administrative Assistant

AbbeHealth Administrative Assistant

UnityPoint Health

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an Administrative Assistant II to support departments and healthcare teams with a variety of administrative tasks of moderate complexity. This role manages communication, scheduling, and travel arrangements, while ordering office supplies and maintaining equipment. 

Why UnityPoint Health?

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.  Here are just a few:      

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.   

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

Responsibilities
  • Provide administrative and clerical support to departments and healthcare teams. 
  • Manage incoming and outgoing correspondence, ensuring accurate tracking and documentation. 
  • Coordinate schedules for meetings, appointments, conferences, and events. 
  • Maintain office supply inventory and ensure equipment is functional, coordinate repairs with vendors. 
  • Respond to inquiries from staff, patients, and visitors; escalate complex issues when needed. 
  • Arrange travel, including transportation and accommodations. 
  • Support department budget and expense tracking and maintain efficient office procedures. 
  • Maintain patient, staff, and departmental records in compliance with privacy regulations. 
  • Handle confidential information and prepare reports and presentations. 
  • Assist with medical billing and insurance documentation and resolve discrepancies. 
  • Support departmental projects through planning, coordination, and deadline tracking. 
Qualifications

Education:  

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required. 
  • Preferred: Associate’s degree in a business of medical-related field. 

Experience:  

  • At least 3 years of experience in administrative, business, or medical-related field 

License(s)/Certification(s): 

  • None

What UnityPoint Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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