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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Assistant Part Time

Portland, OR · On-site

$15.95 - $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 ...

Optometric Assistant Part Time

Portland, OR · On-site

$15.95 - $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 ...

Optometric Assistant Part Time

Gresham, OR · On-site

$15.95 - $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 ...

Optometric Technician

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

What You'll Do: * Assist optometrists in delivering outstanding patient care, from pre-screening to post-exam follow-up * Perform diagnostic tests, gather patient medical histories, and assist in ...

Optometric Technician

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

What You'll Do: * Assist optometrists in delivering outstanding patient care, from pre-screening to post-exam follow-up * Perform diagnostic tests, gather patient medical histories, and assist in ...

Optometric Technician

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

What You'll Do: * Assist optometrists in delivering outstanding patient care, from pre-screening to post-exam follow-up * Perform diagnostic tests, gather patient medical histories, and assist in ...

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Optometric Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Oregon is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.57 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.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,320 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Optometric Assistant Part Time

Visionworks of America

Portland, OR • On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Visionworks rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 215 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Visionworks Clinical Specialist (CS)/Optometric Assistant

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 knowledgeable about eye health and preliminary testing, optics, our products/services and managed vision care. The CS personally takes the patient through the first steps of the Visionworks experience ensuring their eye exam needs are met in a simple, human and bold way.

• Maintain complete and accurate patient records before conducting preliminary testing

• Introduce patient to OD and provide OD with important patient information

• Transition patient from doctor to sales floor and provide associates necessary information to educate and recommend products and services that meet their eye care needs

• Execute day-to-day operational activities to support the store's exam lane maintenance and patient experience goals including: restocking inventory, cleaning equipment, and answering phones to meet additional patient needs

· Related customer or patient experience preferred, but not necessary

· HS diploma, GED or equivalent related job experience

At Visionworks, we offer a generous, competitive benefits package (for our part timers, too!) and exclusive employee discounts —including but not limited to

• Vision Coverage

• Paid Parental Leave

• Bereavement Leave

• 401 (k) Savings Plan

• Paid Time off

• Milestone anniversary awards

• Medical, Dental for Full Timers

• And more!

Everyone has a story that makes them who they are. At Visionworks, we're looking for charismatic people who can lead authentically and with their own unique voice. We are actively committed to fostering an environment where all are seen and heard equally as we embrace Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I).

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

Compensation range for the roles is listed above. Applicable salary ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. As a part of the compensation package, this role may include eligible bonuses, equity, and commissions.


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