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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Family Vision Care

Optometric Technician

Franklin, TN · On-site

$19/hr

We are currently seeking a full-time optometric technician to join our private, multi-doctor optometry practice located in the Cool Springs area of Franklin, TN. Duties include but not limited to ...

MyEyeDr.

Optometric Technician/Medical Assistant

Franklin, TN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

As an Optometric Technician for MyEyeDr. you play an essential role by providing direct support to our Doctors of Optometry in preparing the patient for their visit inclusive of preliminary testing ...

Church Health

Optometric Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Support the daily patient care activities of the Optometry Clinic and assist with quality improvement projects. Duties/Responsibilities: * Patient correspondence for appointment scheduling, phone ...

AEG Vision

Optometric Technician

Mount Juliet, TN

$15.25 - $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 ...

AEG Vision

Optometric Technician

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $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 Tennessee salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Tennessee is $14.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $16.78 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.

More about Optometric Assistant jobs
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:
Optometric Assistant jobs near you

Optometric Technician/ Assistant Opthalmic Tech Patient Care Tech

Music City Optical, Inc

Nashville, TN • On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Eye Exam, Glasses and Contacts Benefit
  • IRA
  • Health Insurance Stipend
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Health insurance
  • Signing bonus
  • Vision insurance

Benefits/Perks
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Great Work Environment
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
Job Summary
UPDATE:  We are offering a $1000 sign on bonus to be paid $500 after 6 mos of full time work at Music City Optical and the other $500 at 12 mos. We are seeking an Optometric Technician to join our team! As an Optometric Technician, you will be responsible for conducting the initial assessment of a patient, including listening to their complaints or concerns, obtaining a relevant medical history, and measuring intraocular pressures, refraction, visual acuities, and more. You will also assist as needed with procedures done by the doctor in-office, help educate patients on eye health and best practices, and maintain an organized, clean work environment at all times. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, exceptional customer service skills, and is extremely organized. Pay is based on experience and expertise. Pay is negotiable with candidates wiht experience in optometry and/or opthalmology.
Responsibilities 
  • Greet patients and gather medical history and relevant information for their visit
  • Conduct an initial assessment of the patient and record all findings
  • Assist in in-office procedures, as needed  Pre-testing patients including Visual Acuities, autorefraction/autokeratometry, autolensmeter, OCT, Clarus ,IOP testing, topography, visual field testing with virtual reality.  Contact lens insertion and removal training. Maintaing contact lens diagnostic lenses inventory.
  • Must be able to acccurately utilize multiple computer programs at once and be able to accuratley input data into electronic records. The office is very technolgy driven and computer based.  Candidate must be comfortable wiht an office with high technolgy and computerization.
  • Maintain a clean, organized workspace at all times
  • Help with front desk duties such as insurance look up on ABB Verify, etc and completing patient routers.
  • Must follow all HIPPA and confidentiality regulations closely.
  • The ideal candidate has exceptional customer service skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills, and in-depth knowledge of the inner workings of an optometrist’s office.
  • Must learn quickly and adapt to latest in technology.
  • Self-motivated.  Willing to help build patient professional relationships.  
  • Motivated to work for base hourly rate plus commission based productivity bonus
  • Must jump in and help where needed.  
  • Have an understanding of optometry private practice and its unique position in the industry
  • Be a team player that gets along with others
  • Positive can do attitude
Qualifications
  • Previous healthcare or customer service experience desired
  • Strong customer service/people skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Familiarity with basic computer programs, such as the Microsoft Office suite
  • Training Program Available. Willing to train the right candidate with skills in customer service, administrative and sales experience.
  • No License necessary