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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Eye Surgeons Associates

Optometric Assistant

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Optometric Assistant - Reclaim Your Evenings & Weekends! Are you a clinical professional looking for a high-impact role without the burnout of irregular hours? Eye Surgeons Associates P.C. is seeking ...

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 ...

Vision Care Associates LLP

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 ...

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 ...

visionworks

$13.70 - $18.47/hr

A Visionworks Clinical Specialist (CS)/Optometric Assistant is the very face of our Exam Practice and is dedicated to ensuring the best possible journey for every patient. This person is trained and ...

visionworks

$13.70 - $18.47/hr

A Visionworks Clinical Specialist (CS)/Optometric Assistant is the very face of our Exam Practice and is dedicated to ensuring the best possible journey for every patient. This person is trained and ...

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Optometric Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 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 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 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.

How much do optometric assistants make in the US?

Optometric assistants in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications, with some earning higher wages in urban areas or with specialized skills such as using optometric equipment or assisting with patient care.

Is it hard to become an optometric assistant?

Becoming an optometric assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training, with some employers preferring candidates with basic knowledge of eye care or customer service skills. Certification is not usually mandatory but can improve job prospects. The role often involves working in a clinical environment with regular schedules, and additional training may be provided by the employer.

What do you need to become an optometric assistant?

To become an optometric assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some training in eye care procedures. On-the-job training is common, and skills in customer service, basic computer use, and knowledge of eye health are beneficial. Certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.
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
Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Iowa 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 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,266 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Optometric Assistant

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

$14 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 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 Part-Time Optometric Assistant based in the Cedar Falls 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.
  • 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.
  • Travel to Waterloo clinic based on clinic need.
  • 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 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, please apply.
EOE

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