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Opticians Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily responsible for helping ensure a great ... One (1) year of related experience Optical or Healthcare background preferred Medical office ...

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily responsible for helping ensure a great ... One (1) year of related experience Optical or Healthcare background preferred Medical office ...

Essential Functions Conduct functional and continuity testing of electrical and optical assemblies ... Support engineering experiments and assist in developing or modifying manufacturing methods and ...

... Optical Materials). * Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist. * Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the ...

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Opticians Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do opticians assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 is an opticians assistant?

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?

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 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 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.

How do you become an opticians assistant?

To become an opticians assistant, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, and on-the-job training is common. Some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge of eye care or customer service skills, and certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects.

How much does an opticians assistant get paid?

The average salary for an opticians assistant typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Many opticians assistants work full-time in retail or healthcare settings, often requiring certification or on-the-job training.

What qualifications do I need to be an opticians assistant?

Opticians assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue on-the-job training or certification programs. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of optical equipment are important for the 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% 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.

Optometric Assistant Part Time

Visionworks of America

Narragansett, RI • On-site

$17 - $25.50/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Visionworks rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant is primarily responsible for helping ensure a great patient experience by preparing the patient for onsite and/or remote examination, completing pre-exam diagnostic tests, and explaining each step of the process. The Clinical Specialist acts as a liaison between our patients and Optometrists and participates in the initial steps of a patient journey.

Pay Class: Part Time

Pay Rate: $17 to $25.50 per hour, 0 - 19 hours per week

Essential Responsibilities

Completing patient registration, gathering and submitting pertinent patient information including Medical History and Ocular Health data into EMR.

Assist onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations. Clearly explain the preliminary testing process to patients, administer each preliminary test and accurately document the results in EMR.

For patients with remote appointments, the Clinical Specialist will be required to assist patients through the remote eye exam process including, but not limited to:

  • Pre-testing and specialty testing and accurately documenting results in EMR
  • Initiate remote technician and remote doctor video conferencing
  • Assist remote doctor and remote technician to complete additional testing required for a remote exam
  • After exam completion transition the patient to a retail associate, conveying the recommendations of the doctor to the retail associate.

Have a strong understanding of MVC plans and be able to articulate plan benefits to patients. Preauthorize insurance in accordance with standard operating procedures.

In partnership with the retail associates, schedule appointments and manage exam books according to Company guidelines including contacting no shows and cancellations.

Maintain patient flow to allow for doctor effectiveness. Answer patients' clinical questions in person and over the telephone. Triage ocular emergencies and schedule annual eye exams.

Maintain complete and accurate patient records according to Company standards. Instruct patients on the insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and proper handling of their contact lenses. Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock. Notify patients when their contact lenses are available for dispensing.

Have a working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters. Accurately pull contact lenses trials when requested by the doctor. Ensure a clean and healthy environment for our patients by maintaining doctor equipment and clinical supplies as well as ensuring equipment is covered nightly.

Participate in specialized training of all responsibilities and complete required clinical certification(s). Ability to work flexible schedules to meet changing business demands to include traveling to other locations.

Education/Experience

One (1) year of related experience Optical or Healthcare background preferred Medical office/business professionalism required HS diploma, GED or equivalent related job experience Training provided

Behavioral Characteristics

Patient advocate Excellent customer service skills Ability to initiate immediate interaction, coordination, and collaboration with patients and team members Very detail orientated and well organized Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with other associates and patients Work under stress with interruptions and deadlines Energetic and self-motivated Team player Excelling problem solving ability Ability to multi-task Exhibit empathy in all interactions Ability to read, analyze and interpret insurance forms Follow procedures and instructions Read English Operate and enter data into electronic software platforms efficiently and accurately

Essential Responsibilities related to Physical Demands/Work Environment

Work changing schedules to meet business demands to include travel between stores Work inside store location Use computers, electronics tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively Reach above shoulder continuously 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 accommodates may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is required to sit, 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).

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 $17 per hour plus incentive. Starting pay may vary based on experience to a maximum of $ 25.50 per hour. Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities also available.


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