ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optometric Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Optometric Assistant

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Optometric Assistant will assist the Optometrist in the overall clinic schedule to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Responsibilities: * Assist the Optometrist during clinic

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optometric Assistant

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

The Optometric Assistant will assist the Optometrist in the overall clinic schedule to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Responsibilities: * Assist the Optometrist during clinic

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optometric Assistant

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Optometric Assistant At Wolfe Eye clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life. We have an immediate opening for a Part-Time Optometric Assistant based in the Cedar Falls Clinic. This position ...

Vision Care Clinic, P.C. (C)

Optometric Technician

Denison, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

As an Optometric Assistant, you will have the opportunity to receive continuous learning growth. Support and study materials are provided to earn certifications: Certified Para-Optometric (CPO) and ...

keplrvision

Optometric Technician

Paullina, IA

$15 - $18.75/hr

Under the guidance of the optometrist or location manager, assist with activities including but not limited to the following: * Pre-screen patients before they see the optometrist, including the ...

Keplr Vision

Optometric Technician

Burlington, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Under the guidance of the optometrist or location manager, assist with activities including but not limited to the following: * Pre-screen patients before they see the optometrist, including the ...

keplrvision

Optometric Technician

Cherokee, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Part Time Optometric Technician I - Family Vision Clinic in Savage, MN Make a Real Impact as an Optometric Technician I Location: 4200 W County Road 42, Savage, MN 55378 * Part Time Schedule - NO ...

visionworks

$61.18 - $84.13/hr

Visionworks Optometrist - Employed Our employed optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of millions of patients each year. St. Cloud, MN Pay Rate: $61.18 ...

visionworks

$61.18 - $84.13/hr

Visionworks Optometrist - Employed Our employed optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of millions of patients each year. St. Cloud, MN Pay Rate: $61.18 ...

visionworks

$61.18 - $84.13/hr

Visionworks Optometrist - Employed Our employed optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of millions of patients each year. HAVERTOWN, PA - Part Time ...

visionworks

$61.18 - $84.13/hr

Visionworks Optometrist - Employed Our employed optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of millions of patients each year. St. Cloud, MN Pay Rate: $61.18 ...

Vision Care Clinic, P.C. (C)

Optometrist

Denison, IA

Join the team and find your path to long-term optometric career success with us today! Job Expectations: Provision of comprehensive eye care services. Contacts, Spectacles, Ocular Disease Management ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptometric JobsOptometric Assistant JobsOptometric Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Optometric Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Iowa is $15.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optometric Assistant, you need knowledge of basic eye care, patient intake procedures, and familiarity with vision insurance, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Experience with electronic health records (EHR), autorefractors, lensometers, and scheduling software is highly beneficial. Strong customer service, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interact with patients and assist the optometrist efficiently. These abilities ensure smooth clinical operations, accurate patient care, and a positive experience for both patients and staff.

Do you need qualifications to be an optical assistant?

Optometric assistants typically do not require formal qualifications, but having a high school diploma or equivalent is common. Relevant skills include good communication, basic knowledge of eye care, and familiarity with optical equipment. Some employers may prefer or require certification or training in eye care procedures.

What is an Optometric Assistant?

An Optometric Assistant is a healthcare professional who supports optometrists in providing eye care services. Their duties typically include assisting with eye exams, performing basic vision tests, managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and helping patients select eyeglasses or contact lenses. They may also handle administrative tasks such as billing and insurance processing. Optometric Assistants play an important role in ensuring the smooth operation of an optometry clinic and providing quality patient care.

Is it hard to become an optometrist assistant?

Becoming an optometric assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training, with many employers providing training for specific tasks. The role generally does not require formal certification, but strong communication skills and familiarity with eye care procedures are beneficial. The job can be accessible for those interested in healthcare support roles with minimal formal education requirements.

What do optometric assistants do?

Optometric assistants support eye care professionals by preparing exam rooms, assisting with patient check-in and check-out, and performing basic vision tests. They may also help with equipment sterilization, patient education, and administrative tasks, often using electronic health records systems. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are important in this role.

What do you need to become an optometric assistant?

To become an optometric assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from completing a training program or certification in optometry assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with eye care equipment are also important. On-the-job training is common, and some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge of medical terminology or customer service experience.

What is the difference between Optometric Assistant vs Optician?

AspectOptometric AssistantOptician
Required CredentialsUsually no formal certification, on-the-job trainingCertification or licensing often required, such as NCLE or ABO
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care officesOptical stores, eyewear retail outlets
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient exams, prepare equipment, administrative tasksFabricate, fit, and dispense eyewear, assist with frame selection

Optometric Assistants primarily support optometrists with patient care and administrative duties, while Opticians focus on eyewear fitting and fabrication. Both roles are essential in eye care settings but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are some typical challenges faced by Optometric Assistants during busy clinic days, and how can they be managed?

Optometric Assistants often experience high patient volumes during peak hours, which can lead to time management challenges and the need to prioritize tasks efficiently. Balancing front-desk responsibilities, pre-testing patients, and assisting with eyewear selection requires strong organizational skills and clear communication with both patients and the optometrist. Proactively preparing materials, staying updated on appointment schedules, and collaborating closely with team members can help ensure smooth workflows and maintain quality patient care even during the busiest times.

What Is an Optometric Assistant?

An optometric assistant is responsible for assisting a licensed optometrist with patient vision care. They are considered medical assistants but do not have a medical certification or qualifications like physician’s assistants. Your job duties vary from office to office, depending on the size of the practice. During your career, you gain experience performing front desk duties such as scheduling appointments, filing records, calling patients, and handling insurance claims. You also perform patient-specific skills such as pretesting, fitting patients for glasses, and some basic procedures, as long as the procedures are under the direct supervision of a licensed physician.

More about Optometric Assistant jobs
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:
Optometric Assistant jobs near you

Optometric Assistant

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Ames, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Optometric Assistant
At Wolfe Eye clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life.
We have an immediate opening for a full-time, year-round Optometric Assistant based in the Ames clinic.
The Optometric Assistant will assist the Optometrist in the overall clinic schedule to provide comprehensive care for our patients.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist the Optometrist during clinic
  • Performing patient workups
  • Performing diagnostic testing such as manual-refraction, OCT's, visual fields, retinoscopy, pressure checks and tonometry
  • Maintaining electronic medical records
  • Scribing and Coding during the exam.
  • Provide Patient Education
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Detailed orientated
  • Previous experience in a medical office.
  • Previous Scribing experience
  • Previous experience with electronic medical record or medical office software.
  • Able to work both independently and in a team environment
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Have excellent patient service skills
  • Maintain excellent communication skills

Previous optical or ophthalmic experience preferred but willing to train the right candidate.
Some daytime travel is required. When traveling to other clinics, mileage and time on the road will be reimbursed.
If you are interested in being a part of an Eye Care Center of Excellence while receiving a competitive wage, and full-time benefits (health, dental, 401K, paid-time-off, etc.) please apply.
EOE

Apply