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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optometric Assistant

Marshalltown, IA

$14 - $17.75/hr

Optometric Assistant At Wolfe Eye clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life. We have an immediate opening for a full-time Optometric Assistant following a new provider who will be based 3 ...

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optometric Assistant

Cedar Falls, IA

$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 ...

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

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 ...

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Optometric Assistant

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Optometric Assistant At Wolfe Eye clinic, we create Better Vision for a Better Life. We have an immediate opening for a full-time Optometric Assistant following a new provider who will be based 3 ...

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 ...

New

keplrvision

Optometric Technician

Cherokee, IA

$16 - $19.75/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 ...

New

Keplr Vision

Optometric Technician I - 017

Burlington, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/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 ...

Hcf

Optometry Student

Hurstville, IA · On-site

Are you studying Optometry or Vision Science at university? This is the role for you! Gain some ... You will assist patients with the selection of their frames and optical lenses, interpret optical ...

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All 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 Jun 12, 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.

What are the duties of an optometric assistant?

An optometric assistant supports eye care professionals by preparing patients for exams, taking patient histories, performing basic vision tests, assisting with optical equipment, and managing appointments and patient records. They may also help with frame selection and cleaning, and ensure the clinic runs smoothly. Strong communication skills and familiarity with optometric tools are important for this role.

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 employers may prefer candidates with previous healthcare or customer service experience. On-the-job training is common, and certifications in medical assisting or optometry procedures can enhance job prospects, but formal education is not usually mandatory. The role generally involves working in an eye care environment, assisting with patient care, and handling administrative tasks.

What do optical assistants get paid?

Optometric assistants typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on certifications, skills, and whether they work full-time or part-time in an optical or healthcare setting.

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. Some employers may require prior experience or knowledge of medical terminology.

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

Optometric Assistant

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Marshalltown, IA

$14 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Wolfe Eye Clinic rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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 Optometric Assistant following a new provider who will be based 3 days a week in the Marshalltown clinic and two days a week in the West Des Moines clinic.

This position will assist the Optometrist during clinic to provide comprehensive care for our patients.

Responsibilities:

  • Assisting the Optometrist during clinic. 
  • Performing patient workups.
  • Performing diagnostic testing such as manual-refraction, retinoscopy, keratometry, OCT’s, visual fields, pressure checks and tonometry
  • Documenting medical and ocular histories into electronic medical records
  • Ordering contact lenses.
  • Maintaining contact lens trials.
  • Providing Patient Education.
  • Answering and triaging calls from patients.
  • Responding to tasks.
  • Completing paperwork and maintaining patient documentation in the electronic medical record. 
  • Sterilizing exam rooms.
  • Monitoring the patient schedule to ensure clinic maintains efficiency.  
  • Scheduling patients.
  • Performing other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications:

  • Detailed orientated
  • Previous experience in a medical office.
  • 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 not required. We are willing to train the right candidate.


Daytime travel is required. When traveling to the non-base clinic, 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

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