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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Visionworks

Optometric Assistant

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15 - $17.29/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 ...

New

visionworks

Optometric Assistant

Waldorf, MD

$15 - $17.29/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 ...

New

visionworks

Optometric Assistant

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$15 - $17.29/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 ...

New

AEG Vision

Optometric Technician

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Documents medical findings and communication between Optometrist and patient in Electronic Health Records(EHR) and assist with clerical duties related to medical documentation (participating ...

AEG Vision

Optometric Technician

Washington, DC

$18.50 - $23/hr

Documents medical findings and communication between Optometrist and patient in Electronic Health Records(EHR) and assist with clerical duties related to medical documentation (participating ...

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Optometric Assistant information

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How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Washington is $18.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.96 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Optometric jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:

Optometric Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,908 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Optometric Assistant, Kensington

Kaiser Permanente

Kensington, MD • On-site

$26.45 - $38.92/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Kaiser Permanente rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 923 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 896 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Summary:
Performs initial work-up and specialized tests for optometry patients. Assists optometrists with clinical tasks as directed by the optometrist. Essential Responsibilities:
  • Greets patients, enters data into medical records, and escorts patients to examination room.
  • Interviews each patient to obtain information about symptoms and documents information provided by patient in medical record.
  • Uses specialized equipment to test patients vision and condition.
  • Provides test results to provider and brings attention to abnormal results.
  • Assists optometrist to conduct examinations as directed.
  • Assists patients to understand spectacle and contact lens options following diagnosis by optometrist.
  • Cleans and maintains specialized equipment and work areas.
  • Performs other related duties as directed.
Basic Qualifications:
Experience
  • Minimum one (1) year experience doing patient work-ups to include visual acuities, manual and automated lensometry, auto-refraction, non-contact tonometry and knowledge of contact lenses including the teaching of insertion and removal classes or completion of inter-departmental training program emphasizing above skills developed by the Optometry department.
Education
  • High School Diploma OR General Education Development (GED) required.
License, Certification, Registration
  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant within 6 months of hire from International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology OR Paraoptometric Technician Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association OR Paraoptometric Assistant Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association OR Paraoptometric Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association
Additional Requirements:
  • Successfully demonstrated proficiency on initial skills assessment during the interview process.
  • Proficiency in the use of applicable computer software.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • BLS Certification preferred.

Primary Location: Maryland,Kensington,Kensington I Medical Center
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
Shift: Day
Workdays: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Working Hours Start: 08:45 AM
Working Hours End: 05:15 PM
Job Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
Employee Status: Regular
Worker Location: Onsite
Employee Group/Union Affiliation: M40|OPEIU|Local 2
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Department: Kensington I Medical Center - Optometry - 1808
Pay Range: $26.45 - $38.92 / hour Kaiser Permanente strives to offer a market competitive total rewards package and is committed to pay equity and transparency. The posted pay range is based on possible base salaries for the role and does not reflect the full value of our total rewards package. Actual base pay determined at offer will be based on labor market data, internal alignment, and a candidate's years of relevant work experience, education, certifications, skills, and geographic location.
Travel: Yes, 75 % of the Time Kaiser Permanente is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic or status.

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