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Optical Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Fibertek is looking for an optical communication engineer to join our Herndon, VA team to help pave the way for tomorrow's advancement in space exploration. You will embrace a team atmosphere while ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise in support of developmental, prototype, and transition to manufacturing efforts. * Perform DRI (detection, recognition, identification) range analysis of ...

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Job Title Optical Communication Engineer Location Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary) Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based ...

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter ...

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter ...

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer II

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter ...

Sr. Optical Communications Engineer II

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Senior Optical Communication Engineer Would you enjoy working with a collaborative team of engineers to design and build satellite based optical communications laser terminals including optical inter ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$9

$17

$20

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.85 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 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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Optical Administrative Assistant

Optical Administrative Assistant

Katzen Eye Group

Lutherville, MD

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 hours ago


Job description

Katzen Eye Group is seeking a skilled Optical Administrative Assistant for our Lutherville, MD. offices. Some travel to our other Metro Baltimore locations will be required. No nights, no major holidays, a robust benefits package, a team-oriented working environment where you are seen, heard and respected as well as clear career ladder opportunities.

This is your opportunity to join one of the areas most recognized leaders in ophthalmology and optometry. Katzen Eye Group was established in 1968 in Baltimore. Since that time, it has grown to be one of the largest and most trusted eye practices in Maryland. Our staff consists of ophthalmologists, optometrists, opticians and skilled medical professionals offering services ranging from basic eye exams to the most sophisticated testing and complicated surgical treatment of eye diseases.

We are committed to customer service and making every interaction extraordinary while inspiring the complete confidence of our patients. Our employees contribute directly to the growth and success of our practices and take pride in being a member of our team. We strongly believe that the manner in which our patients and customers are treated by our employees is as important as the services provided by the doctor.

All of us at Katzen Eye Group are committed to inclusion and belonging. We believe today more than ever that creating an environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work and make it easy for others to do the same will benefit us all. It isn’t speaking the words, but starts with a culture of caring, listening and service. We would thoroughly enjoy meeting with you and discussing our employment opportunities.

An Optical Administrative Assistant will ensure all patients are welcomed and greeted promptly. Additional responsibilities will include managing patient flow in the optical area, handling phone inquiries, organizing patient records, managing daily correspondence, and clerical supply inventory while offering administrative assistance. You will also be responsible for performing a variety of tasks as delegated by the physician and/or optical manager to assist in accurately fitting contact lenses, including the training of proper lens insertion and removal techniques, the care of different contact lens types and providing excellent service to the patient. This supportive role is crucial to the patient experience and the overall success of the optical team.

Responsibilities:

  • Act as the first point of contact by welcoming all patients and visitors to the optical area
  • Determine reason for visit and direct patients accordingly
  • Follow established check-in procedures to best manage clinic flow
  • Complete patients check out processes including collecting payment for all applicable services including materials and enter into EPM/EMR
  • Call patients to notify them when eyeglasses/contact lenses are ready for pick up
  • Balance cash drawer daily
  • Manage office supply inventory and follow in-office procedures for re-order
  • Answer telephones in a prompt and courteous manner
  • Executes duties of position in a professional and courteous manner
  • Handles sensitive information in a confidential manner

The position will also be responsible for:

  • Provide patient training in the insertion, removal, and care of contact lenses through hands-on practice and written instructions
  • Accurately specify lens parameters for order placement from vendor
  • Verify lenses upon receipt prior to patient notification for pickup
  • Maintain database and inventory for contact lens orders
  • Ensure all contact lens charges are collected and/or submitted to insurance and reconciled at the end of each business day
  • Schedule patients for contact lens appointments
  • Respond to all patient inquiries within one business day
  • Assist patients with specialty contact lens fitting, billing, claims and deposits
  • Reconcile and process all contact lens sales, transfers and returns
  • Maintain contact lens inventory including accessory items including but not limited to solutions, cases, applicators, and/or cleaning devices as needed for clinic volume
  • Maintain contact lens merchandising displays

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Two years’ experience working in an optical practice with contact lenses fitting and sales is highly preferred
  • Must have the ability to establish confidence and trust with patients
  • Physical demands require standing for long periods of time
  • Commitment to providing outstanding customer service
  • Must be compassionate and can establish a positive patient rapport
  • Must have the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure or stress
  • Highly energetic with a positive attitude
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Create and maintain positive interpersonal relationships
  • Previous administrative experience preferred
  • Basic computer literacy required
  • Excellent math skills that allow for precise work related to opticianry and sales (basic algebraic equations and monetary calculations)

In Turn We Will Provide:

  • Benefits to full time team members that include comprehensive medical, dental and optical coverage, 401k and short- and long-term disability
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Paid holidays and generous paid time off
  • Paid parking where applicable
  • Team oriented working environment where you are heard and respected
  • Clear career ladder opportunities

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