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Optical Assistant Jobs in Willimantic, CT (NOW HIRING)

Vision Associates Inc

Licensed Optician

Norwich, CT

Norwich Ophthalmology Group Norwich partners with Vision Associates to provide best-in-class optical dispensary management at their location. Licensed Opticians will work independently within the ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Willimantic, CT salary details

$8

$15

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How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Willimantic, CT is $15.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $17.31 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 cities near Willimantic, CT are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Willimantic, CT with the most Optical Assistant job openings:

Optical Assistant jobs near you

Target Optical - Manchester, CT - Full time or Part time Licensed Optician

EssilorLuxottica

Manchester, CT • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 299 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Requisition ID: 922814
Store #: 001942 Target Optical
Position:Full-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information
At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. We help people see more clearly and confidently for less by offering a great selection of trusted brands. Through the relationships we build, we're proud and excited to help people look their best by carrying fashionable frames at a great value.
Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. We keep things real, keep focused on people and keep to our mission to bring a WOW! experience to your life, our guests' lives and communities. See your future with Target Optical.
Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Licensed Optician ensures the delivery of the Target Optical Way and the Guest Experience. The Licensed Optician lives out the Target Optical Way by embracing the Mindsets: People Focused, Collaborative, Accountable to Results, Think Differently and Simple, Fun and In Style.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Delivers the daily sales goal by flawless execution of the Guest Experience behaviors.
  • Ensures the delivery of a simple, fun and in-style fashion experience through the Playground Rules.
  • Builds Brand awareness by daily attracting new Guests from the Host to Optical.
  • Develops and maintains a professional business partnership with the Target Optical doctor and Target Host.
  • Models the Target Optical Personal Style Dress Code.
  • Creates an amazing Guest experience on every visit by accurately fitting and dispensing fashionable product to Guests.
  • Follows all operating policies and procedures at the highest level to include training, timely and accurate implementation of approved marketing/ merchandising programs and promotions, the accurate completion of all sales transactions, and utilization of all sales strategies and resources.
  • Ensures accuracy in all transactions/interactions with the Guest.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Licensed as required by state
  • 1+ years experience in retail or customer service
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Selling Skills
  • Driver for Results
  • Self-Motivated
  • Critical Thinking
  • Accountability
  • Accuracy in measurements

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.
EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

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