1

Optometric Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Assistant

Fridley, MN · On-site

$22.96 - $32.42/hr

Job Overview Assist Optometrist in the provision of quality patient care. Participates in the smooth and efficient operation of the department. Assists in the care, treatment and education of ...

Optometric Assistant

Andover, MN · On-site

$22.96 - $32.42/hr

Job Overview Assist Optometrist in the provision of quality patient care. Participates in the smooth and efficient operation of the department. Assists in the care, treatment and education of ...

Optometric Assistant

Andover, MN · On-site

$22.96 - $32.42/hr

Job Overview Assist Optometrist in the provision of quality patient care. Participates in the smooth and efficient operation of the department. Assists in the care, treatment and education of ...

Southwest Eye Care is hiring for a full-time Optometric Assistant at our Minnetonka location.. Who we are: We are ambassadors of integrity, who are committed to individualized care using remarkable ...

Optometric Technician

Edina, MN

$16.75 - $21/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Edina, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Edina, MN

$16.75 - $21/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Edina, MN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Savage, MN · On-site

$18 - $22/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 ...

Perform a variety of tasks to assist the optometrist in eye examinations. Tasks include privately obtaining medical history and preparation of patient for examination. Think out loud, asking open ...

LensCrafters - Optometric Technician

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Perform a variety of tasks to assist the optometrist in eye examinations. Tasks include privately obtaining medical history and preparation of patient for examination. Think out loud, asking open ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optometric Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Minnesota is $16.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.12 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.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:
Optometric Assistant

$22.96 - $32.42/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Fairview Health Services rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 245 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 884 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Overview

Assist Optometrist in the provision of quality patient care. Participates in the smooth and efficient operation of the department. Assists in the care, treatment and education of optometry patients. Provides services to patients, staff and others in a respectful and courteous manner. Works collaboratively with appropriate staff to ensure effective services and exercises prudent stewardship of financial and other resources.

This position will support Fairview Andover, Fridley and Brooklyn Park Clinics in Minnesota. 80 hours in two weeks, Monday-Friday shifts
Required Qualifications

  • Graduate from Optometry Assistant program or equivalent experience
  • Lensometer experience
  • Basic computer skills
  • Good problem solving and communication skills
  • Ability to effectively and sensitively relate to customers

Preferred Qualifications

  • Graduate from an accredited Optometric Assistant program (CPO or CPOT)
  • M.A./M.S.
  • Optometric / Ophthalmic experience
  • 2 years contact lens experience

Benefit Overview

Fairview offers a generous benefit package including but not limited to medical, dental, vision plans, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, PTO and Sick and Safe Time, tuition reimbursement, retirement, early access to earned wages, and more! Please follow this link foradditional information: https://www.fairview.org/careers/benefits/noncontract


Compensation Disclaimer

An individual's pay rate within the posted range may be determined by various factors, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, our organization prioritizes pay equity and considers internal team equity when making any offer. Hiring at the maximum of the range is not typical. If your role is eligible for a sign-on bonus, the bonus program that is approved and in place at the time of offer, is what will be honored.


EEO Statement
EEO/Vet/Disabled: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any lawfully protected statusQualifications:

$22.96- $32.42 Hourly

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What Fairview Health Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Fairview Health Services logo

About Fairview Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fairview Health Services is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit that offers an entire network of healthcare services. Fairview is one part of M Health Fairview, a partnership between the University of Minnesota, M Physicians and Fairview Health Services. Together, we combine the University's deep history of clinical innovation and training with Fairview's extensive roots in community medicine. Our care portfolio includes community hospitals, academic hospitals, primary and specialty care clinics, senior facilities, facilitated living centers, rehabilitation centers, home health care services, counseling, pharmacies and benefit management services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US