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Optometric Assistant information

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How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Michigan is $14.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $16.15 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optometric jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Optometric jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:

Optometric Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,941 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Optometric Assistant/ Paraoptometric

Great Lakes Bay Health Centers

Bay City, MI • On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Great Lakes Bay Health Centers rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Patient Preparation: Reviews patient's past medical/ocular history and prepares charts prior to patient appointments. Reviews referral/consult notes and adds pertinent information into patient's notes. (10%)

Patient Intake: Obtains patient's vitals and visual acuity. Gathers patient information including chief complaint and completing a thorough history of present illness. (25%)

Pre-Testing/Patient Care: Performs appropriate pre-testing on patients based on presenting concern. Pre-tests include autorefraction, rebound tonometry, extraocular movements, lensometry, pupillary function, and confrontation visual fields. Other pre-testing elements as directed by provider. Administers diagnostic drops as directed and educates patients on side effects. (35%)

Special Testing: Obtains imaging and performs testing as ordered. This includes macular/nerve OCT, visual fields, and fundus photography. (10%)

Referrals: Places and tracks external referrals for surgical pre-testing and consults. Tracks status of referrals and obtains reports once available. (5%)

Patient Education: Provides limited patient education as directed by optometrist. Assist other support staff in triaging and scheduling concerns. (5%)

Clinical Environment/Equipment: Maintains organization of exam rooms and other clinical areas. Cleans and disinfects instrumentation in accordance of infection control guidelines. Maintains sample cabinet inventory. Orders contact lens trial prescriptions and solutions as needed. (10%)

Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job.

MARGINAL JOB DUTIES

Performs other duties as directed to ensure the efficiency of the vision services department.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Education: High school graduate or equivalent.

Licensure: Active BLS certification. Entry level paraoptometric or certified ophthalmic assistant certification preferred.

Experience: One (1) year of experience as optometric assistant, ophthalmic assistant, or paraoptometric preferred.

Skills: Possess basic knowledge and skills appropriate for optometric care. Telephone and computer skills necessary. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Maintains universal precautions. Flexible in accepting work assignments. Self-motivated.

Interpersonal Skills: Ability to seek and utilize supervision appropriately. Ability to communicate with a diverse patient population. Maintain patient confidentiality as defined by HIPPA regulations.

Physical Effort: Must be able to sit, stand, and or walk for an entire workday. Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull, and or twist while holding up to 25 lbs. occasionally.

Hours of Work: Full-time; flexible and varied. Evening hours may be required. Regular and timely attendance required. Telecommuting not an option for this position.

Travel: Not a requirement for this position. If needed, reimbursement for expenses consistent with GLBHC policy.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Qualifications

Education: High School or better.

Experience: 1 year: Experience as an Optometric Assistant or Ophthalmic Assistant

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