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Optical Pre Tester Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optometrist

Queensbury, NY · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

... pre-testing * Knowledge of ocular diseases and treatment options * Ability to perform eye exams and prescription dispensing Nice to Have Skills: * Experience with optical coherence tomography

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Optical Pre Tester information

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$10

$38

$62

How much do optical pre tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical pre tester in the United States is $38.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Pre Tester vs Optical Lab Technician?

AspectOptical Pre TesterOptical Lab Technician
CertificationsTypically requires optical or technical certificationsOften requires similar certifications, sometimes more specialized
Work EnvironmentPrepares lenses and frames in retail or lab settingsAssembles and finishes lenses in lab environments
Job FocusMeasuring, inspecting, and preparing lenses for fittingFabricating, polishing, and verifying lens quality
Employer & IndustryOptical retail stores, labs, and manufacturingOptical labs and manufacturing facilities

Optical Pre Testers and Optical Lab Technicians share overlapping skills and certifications, but their roles differ in focus. Pre Testers primarily prepare lenses and frames for fitting, while Lab Technicians handle the fabrication and finishing of lenses. Both roles are essential in optical production, often working closely within the same industry environments.

What are some common challenges Optical Pre Testers face during patient pre-screening, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Pre Testers often encounter challenges such as managing high patient volumes, ensuring accuracy during diagnostic tests, and effectively communicating procedures to patients who may be anxious or unfamiliar with the process. To address these challenges, it’s important to develop strong organizational skills, maintain attention to detail, and foster clear, compassionate communication. Many clinics provide on-the-job training and encourage teamwork, so reaching out to colleagues and supervisors for support can also help new Optical Pre Testers adapt and thrive in their role.

What are Optical Pre Testers?

Optical Pre Testers are professionals who perform preliminary eye tests and screenings before patients see an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They help gather important data about a patient's vision and eye health using specialized equipment, such as autorefractors, tonometers, and visual field machines. Their work ensures that the eye doctor receives accurate information to diagnose and treat patients effectively. Optical Pre Testers also assist with patient intake, record keeping, and sometimes provide basic explanations about procedures. This role is essential for maintaining an efficient workflow in eye care clinics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Pre Tester, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Pre Tester, you need a solid understanding of basic optometric procedures, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with optometric instruments such as autorefractors, tonometers, and computerized vision testing equipment is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to clearly communicate with patients help build trust and ensure accurate testing. These skills are crucial for ensuring precise pre-testing results, supporting optometrists, and providing a positive patient experience.
More about Optical Pre Tester jobs
Infographic showing various Optical Pre Tester job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 14% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 59% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,791 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Optometric Assistant / Optical Receptionist

Texas State Optical - Briargrove/Galleria

Houston, TX • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 hours ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

Location:

  • TSO Briargrove 6100 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77057

About Us:
At Texas State Optical, we are passionate about delivering an exceptional patient experience. From stylish eyewear to advanced solutions like Neurolens, RF & IPL treatments, myopia management, and dry eye therapies, we put patient care at the center of everything we do.
Role Overview:
We are seeking a dual-role Optometric Assistant / Optical Receptionist to join our team. This cross-trained position ensures patients receive seamless care from check-in to exam to checkout. You will support both the front desk and clinical team, helping with scheduling, insurance, pre-testing, and patient education all in the spirit of continuity of care.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Greet patients warmly and provide exceptional service at every touchpoint
  • Verify patient appointments, confirmations, and pre-appointments

  • Manage recall lists to keep patients on track with their annual exams

  • Perform pre-testing (visual acuity, autorefractor, topography, retinal imaging, etc.)
  • Collect and record patient medical/ocular history
  • Train patients on contact lens insertion/removal
  • Support doctors with chairside assistance as needed
  • Manage incoming calls, scheduling, and patient communications
  • Verify and process vision/medical insurance
  • Process payments and maintain accurate records
  • Collaborate with the team to ensure smooth patient flow throughout the office
Ideal Candidate:

  • Previous optical, medical office, or healthcare experience preferred (will train motivated candidates)
  • Comfortable with both front desk administration and clinical pre-testing

  • Strong relationship-building skills with patients and co-workers
  • Compassionate, with a focus on continuity of care across the patient journey
  • Detail-oriented, reliable, and adaptable with a whatever it takes attitude
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly pay + monthly bonuses + role-based commissions
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
  • Discounted exams and eyewear
  • 50% employer-paid medical (after 90 days)
  • 401(k) with up to 4% employer match (after 1 year)
  • Employee eyewear/materials discounts
  • Closed Sundays no late nights

  • Consistent schedule: MondayFriday 9am6pm, Saturday 9am1pm