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Opticians Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Retail Licensed Optician

Narragansett, RI ยท On-site

$25.50 - $38.25/hr

Utilizing technical information to interpret prescription to assist customer with selection of optical products and services. Pay Class and Pay Pay Class: Full Time Pay: $25.50 - $38.25 per hour ...

The Ophthalmic Assistant reports to the BHMG Ophthalmology Practice Manager or designee. Assists ... Perform specialized testing such as visual fields, optical coherence tomography, ophthalmic ...

Ophthalmic Assistant - FT

Providence, RI ยท On-site

$19.97 - $32.96/hr

The Ophthalmic Assistant reports to the BHMG Ophthalmology Practice Manager or designee. Assists ... Perform specialized testing such as visual fields, optical coherence tomography, ophthalmic ...

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Showing results 1-20

Opticians Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do opticians assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for opticians assistant in Rhode Island is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be an optical assistant?

Opticians assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as a dispensing optician qualification. Strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of optical products and tools are also important for the role.

Do you need a degree to be an optician assistant?

Optician assistants typically do not need a college degree but must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Strong communication skills and knowledge of optical equipment are important, and some states may require specific licensing or certification. Formal education requirements vary by employer and location.

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

Opticians assistants typically earn 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 requires basic knowledge of optical equipment and customer service skills.

What is the difference between Opticians Assistant vs Optometrists Assistant?

AspectOpticians AssistantOptometrists Assistant
CredentialsUsually no formal certification required, but some certifications like Certified Paraoptometric may helpOften requires similar certifications or training, depending on state regulations
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retailers, optician officesOptometry clinics, eye care centers
Job DutiesAssisting with frame selection, lens measurements, customer service, basic optical repairsAssisting with patient intake, preliminary eye tests, scheduling, and administrative tasks

While both roles support eye care professionals, Opticians Assistants focus on eyewear fitting and customer service, whereas Optometrists Assistants support eye exams and patient management. Both roles require knowledge of optical products and customer interaction, but their specific duties and work settings differ.

What are some common challenges faced by an Opticians Assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Opticians Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, from assisting customers with frame selection to handling administrative tasks and maintaining inventory. A common challenge is balancing customer service with the technical aspects of the role, such as understanding prescription details and ensuring accurate record-keeping. Effective communication, time management, and a willingness to learn from senior opticians can help manage these challenges. Building strong product knowledge and staying organized also contribute to a smoother workflow and better customer experiences.

What are Opticians Assistants?

Opticians Assistants are professionals who support opticians in providing eye care services to customers. They help with tasks such as scheduling appointments, fitting and adjusting eyeglasses, managing inventory, and assisting customers in selecting frames and lenses. Opticians Assistants also handle administrative duties and ensure that the optical practice runs smoothly. Their role is important in delivering quality service and ensuring customer satisfaction within an optical retail environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Opticians Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Opticians Assistant, you need a basic understanding of optical products, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with practice management software, lens measurement tools, and insurance processing systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective communication help build rapport with customers and support the optometrist. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate prescriptions, efficient service, and positive patient experiences.

What does an opticians assistant do?

An opticians assistant supports opticians by helping customers select eyewear, taking measurements, and adjusting glasses. They may also handle administrative tasks, maintain equipment, and ensure the optical shop runs smoothly. Good communication skills and basic knowledge of eye care are important for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Opticians jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Opticians jobs in Rhode Island are:
Infographic showing various Opticians Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,341 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Retail Licensed Optician

Retail Licensed Optician

Visionworks

Narragansett, RI โ€ข On-site

$25.50 - $38.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Summary:
Assists customers with frame selection, fits and dispenses frames. Utilizing technical information to interpret prescription to assist customer with selection of optical products and services.
Pay Class and Pay
Pay Class: Full Time
Pay: $25.50 - $38.25 per hour
Essential Responsibilities:
1. Assist each customer in frame and lens selection meeting social distance requirements
2. Ensure compliance with social distancing, cleaning protocols and cleaning hygiene practices: frequent handwashing, not shaking hands, cover nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, avoid touching eyes / nose / mouth with unwashed hands
3. Provide customers with accurate product information regarding frames, lens selections and other services.
4. Provide customers covered by Third Party insurance with accurate information regarding benefits to ensure proper selection of frames and lenses. Inform the customer of any additional charges not covered by their Third-Party insurance coverage.
5. Utilize the SERVE sales process to identify customer needs and establish proper lens recommendations based on patient needs. Associate must utilize all available demonstration tools (See SERVE brochure for specifics).
6. Analyze and interpret patients' prescriptions. Communicate as necessary with the Lab and Optometrist to ensure accuracy of prescription.
7. Sell, fit and dispense frames and other accessories through the use of accurate measurements, verification of ordered products and adjustments of various optical products, in accordance with the Eyewear Presentation.
8. Maintain a clean and orderly dispensing area.
9. Responsible for the accuracy of customer pricing for the retail customer.
10. Maintain license requirements per State Guidelines
11. Where applicable, provide feedback and guidance to Apprentice Opticians
12. Adhere to privacy and confidential and proprietary company policies and procedures (i.e. HIPAA).
13. Participate in any/all training and educational activities necessary to fulfill at least the minimum requirements as specified within your departmental goals. This is in addition to, the completion of any activities necessary for the maintenance of professional affiliations or organizational requirements.
14. Diligently maintain the cleanliness of all equipment, workstations and the overall facility on a daily basis.
15. As required by changing business needs, complete additional responsibilities as assigned.
Education:
โ€ข High School Diploma or Equivalent
Experience & Background:
โ€ข Must have and maintain applicable state licensure for ophthalmic dispensing
โ€ข Knowledge and demonstrated abilities in explaining optical products, services, the analysis and interpretation of optical prescriptions, fitting and dispensing.
Language Skills:
โ€ข Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos
โ€ข Ability to write simple correspondence
โ€ข Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other associates of the organization
Mathematical Skills:
โ€ข Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest and percentages
โ€ข Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry
Reasoning Ability
โ€ข Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form
โ€ข Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations
Essential Responsibilities related to Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to stand, use hands and fingers to handle, feel, pick or pinch, and talk or hear most of the time. The associate is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. The noise level in this location is moderate (use of computers, printers and machines).
Activity
Amount of Time
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
Stand
X
Walk
X
Sit
X
Use hands to finger, handle, or feel
X
Reach with Hands and Arms
X
Climb or balance
X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
X
Talk or hear
X
โ€ข Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)
โ€ข Distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more)
โ€ข Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
โ€ข Peripheral vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or to the left and right while eyes are fixed on a given point)
โ€ข Depth perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships)
โ€ข Ability to adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)
Essential Responsibilities related to Behavioral Characteristics:
โ€ข Basic computer literacy
โ€ข Strong communication skills and the desire to work with the public
โ€ข Possess an outgoing, positive professional personality & appearance
โ€ข Ability to work independently and as part of team
โ€ข Ability to interact well with Doctor and other associates
โ€ข Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously
โ€ข Flexibility to support change
โ€ข Ability to work onsite and participate in interactive onsite meetings on a regular and predictable basis.
โ€ข Ability to initiate immediate interaction, coordination and collaboration with team members, clients, customers etc.
HIPAA & Security Requirements
All Associates must comply with the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) as it pertains to disclosures of protected health information (PHI) as described in the Notice of Privacy Practices and HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures. As a component of job roles and responsibilities, Associates may have access to covered information, cardholder data or other confidential customer information which must be protected at all times. As a result, Associates must explicitly adhere to all data security guidelines established within the Company's Privacy & Security Training Program.
Visionworks is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the hiring, advancement, and fair treatment of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, ethnicity, disability or veteran status, or any other protected status designated by federal, state, or local law.
The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. As required by changing business needs, complete additional essential responsibilities as identified and assigned.
Union Position Compensation: Position provides competitive pay and benefits. Specific terms are set forth in the Company's collective bargaining agreement with a minimum pay rate of $25.50 per hour plus incentive. Starting pay may vary based on experience to a maximum of $38.25 per hour. Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities also available.