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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Two Harbors, MN · On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

Job Summary Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative ... Coordinate patient optometric care with optical dispensing, membership services, family practice ...

Job Summary Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative ... Coordinate patient optometric care with optical dispensing, membership services, family practice ...

Optometric Technician

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Optometric Technician Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the ...

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Optometric Technician

Woodbury, MN

$17 - $21/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

Optometric Technician

Fridley, MN

$17 - $21/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

Optometric Technician

Woodbury, MN · On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

Optometric Technician

Waite Park, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

Optometric Technician

Cold Spring, MN

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

Optometric Technician

Waite Park, MN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Optometric Technicians work in conjunction with the doctors to perform activities involving patient care, pre-testing, post-exam duties, specialty testing, and maintain the doctor's appointment ...

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Optometric Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$16

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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:
LensCrafters - Optometric Technician

LensCrafters - Optometric Technician

EssilorLuxottica

Rochester, MN • On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 293 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Requisition ID: 929314
Store #: 000836 LensCrafters
Position:Part-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information
LensCrafters is a place for visionaries. We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye care.
Everything we do is centered around sight. Because quality care helps us see the joy in life. Because learning from the best, makes us all better. Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care.
At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care. And that's why we're committed to taking care of you, so you can bring the best quality experience to our patients and customers.
LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Optometric Technician creates exceptional value in the lives of our patients by delivering the LensCrafters Experience. Ensure all patients receive the highest quality Optometric care. Deliver the store's key performance indicators by ensuring flawless execution of the patient experience/behaviors during and after the exam process and seamlessly link the doctor and retail functions together.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Display a professional image, greet patients promptly with a smile
  • Promptly answer the telephone in a friendly and courteous manner
  • 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 ended questions around the what, why and relevance to patient. Perform tests to aid the optometrist in accurate diagnosis and treatment for the patient in appropriate time frame
  • Attentive to details; review prescriptions and/or patient information carefully; identify special needs; consult with Optician, Managing Doctor or Retail Management when necessary
  • Show patience and courtesy to indecisive or difficult customers/patients
  • Perform work accurately and thoroughly despite time pressure and patient volume
  • Identify situations involving unsatisfied patients and act quickly for effective resolution
  • Demonstrate knowledge of appointment book/scheduling procedures and computer operation/procedures
  • Handle and file all patient records in an organized and efficient manner in accordance with HIPAA
  • Support retention and cultivation of exams including making NEE calls, 24 hour confirmation calls and no show call-backs
  • Place contact lens trial orders, ensure no expired contacts and maintain the contact lens room in a neat, orderly and free of clutter.
  • Utilize the CIAO system for inputting customer/patient data, insurance information and eye care services with appropriate fees. Enter prescription information with accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Maintain safe working environment for all associates, customers and patients
  • Support compliance of visual merchandising in the exam lanes, assesment room and contact lens area.
  • Ability to adapt to various examination scenarios and be personable with patients and staff
  • Perform all pre-examination testing with accuracy and attention to detail; take initiative to explain all measurements and answer any questions the patient may have
  • Utilize clinical and product knowledge, provide coaching and guidance to patients on care and handling of contact lenses
  • Responsible for maintenance and disinfection of equipment; provide clinical support to the optometrist as needed.
  • Monitor and maintain inventory of supplies and contact lenses in exam rooms
  • Support retail as capacity and patient demand allows

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • Minimum of one year strong customer service skills (internal/external)
  • Leadership skills
  • Strong communicator and listener
  • Problem solving ability
  • Organization skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Ability to assess priorities, address multiple tasks and deadlines in fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work autonomously
  • Knowledge of office environment
  • Strong basic math skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in retail and/or optical
  • Experience in healthcare

Pay Range: 18.88 - 26.88
This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.
EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

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