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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Norwalk, IA (NOW HIRING)

Optometrist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$80 - $90/hr

OPTOMETRIST - Mobile Optometry Location : Des Moines, IA Compensation : $80-$90/hr. No Federal Holidays No nights No weekends (other than very select voluntary exceptions) Job Type : Part-Time, ...

OPTOMETRIST - Mobile Optometry Location : Des Moines, IA Compensation : $80-$90/hr. No Federal Holidays No nights No weekends (other than very select voluntary exceptions) Job Type : Part-Time, ...

This is a great opportunity for a skilled, personable optometrist who wants to earn additional income while enjoying maximum flexibility. Whether you're balancing another role, family life, or easing ...

Optometrist

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$126 - $154/hr

Physicians Eye Clinic in West Des Moines, Iowa, is seeking to add an optometrist to their busy ... All equipment is up to date, and support staff is well-trained with all assistants trained as ...

New

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

At our practice, you're more than an optometrist -- you're a trusted partner in eye care . We've built an environment where compassion, innovation, and your well-being come first. What you'll find ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

As an Independent Optometrist leasing space inside our Walmart stores you will take a leading role in patient care with respect to eye and vision care as well as general health and wellbeing. As an ...

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Optometric Assistant information

See Norwalk, IA salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Norwalk, IA is $15.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.31 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 near Norwalk, IA are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities near Norwalk, IA with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Norwalk, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,160 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Optometrist

Vision to Learn

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$80 - $90/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide vision evaluations, including checking visual acuity, assessing binocular vision, intraocular pressure, pupils, performing refraction, and assessing ocular health

  • Prescribe vision devices, test patients with applicable equipment, and instruct patients on proper use

  • Document patient diagnoses accurately in internal systems


Job description

Vision To Learn Job Description - Iowa

Position Title: OPTOMETRIST – Mobile Optometry 

Location: Des Moines, IA

Compensation: $80-$90/hr. 

 No Federal Holidays

 No nights

 No weekends (other than very select voluntary exceptions)

Job Type: Part-Time, Contract 

 

Vision To Learn seeks compassionate, mission-driven optometrists who want to make a tangible impact on children’s lives. As part of a mobile clinical team, you’ll provide high-quality eye exams and help deliver glasses to students in underserved communities—removing vision barriers that affect learning and long-term opportunities. If you’re motivated by service, inspired by teamwork, and excited to practice optometry in a meaningful, community-focused setting, Vision To Learn offers a rewarding way to use your skills to change lives.

For more information about our career opportunities and see the impact of our work, please visit our website www.visiontolearn.org/careers/

 

Qualified applicants please apply through this direct link or through our website:

https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=30b34f46-a9ae-44f4-935d-50f363bbe971&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US&&source=EN


 

About Vision To Learn

Vision To Learn is the largest school-based vision care nonprofit in the country. VTL exists to address one basic premise – if you can’t see, you can’t learn. Vision To Learn provides eye exams and glasses to students in underserved communities at no cost to the students and their families to help them succeed in school and in life. Founded in Los Angeles in 2012, Vision To Learn has since expanded to schools across the country. Vision care is critical as 80% of all learning during a child’s first 12 years is visual, we work to solve the problem of lack of access by partnering with school districts to provide eye exams and glasses at no charge to families. We have provided over 3.8 million vision screenings, 800,000 eye exams and 650,000 new, prescription glasses in the last decade.


Join us and make a direct impact by helping provide vision services to school-aged children in underserved communities who would otherwise go without access to care. Competitive pay, flexible schedule, mileage reimbursement, no federal holidays, no nights, and no weekends (other than very select voluntary exceptions). 


Who We Are 

We are friendly, high energy, knowledgeable, and detail-oriented professionals committed to Vision To Learn’s mission. We approach our work with a value system of service excellence, empathy, integrity, open communication, empowerment, and an eagerness to help the communities we serve. 


Position Description

Vision To Learn is seeking a qualified candidate for an optometrist licensed to practice in Iowa. This position would be part time. 


Key Position Responsibilities

• Provide vision evaluations: check VA’s, assess binocular vision, IOP, pupils, perform a full refraction and prescribe appropriate correction, and assess ocular health

•Prescribe vision devices, tests patient on all applicable equipment to determine the most suitable for his/her condition, and instruct patient in the proper use of it

•Confirm that patient diagnosis is properly documented in the internal systems 


Qualifications

•Iowa Optometry License 

• As the position will work on a mobile clinic, must be flexible to commute throughout portions of Black Hawk, Dubuque, Jones, Marion, Polk and Scott Counties.

•Must pass Department of Justice background check (LiveScan) and drug test


Successful candidates will have a proven track record for quality patient care, with positive, proactive attitudes who are dedicated to our mission. Vision To Learn is a rapidly growing organization and team players are critical to our collective success. 

Clearance Requirements 

As a direct healthcare provider and to protect the health and well-being of our employees, VTL has implemented best practices for ensuring a clean and safe work environment. Employees will be asked to pass a Department of Justice background check/fingerprinting (LiveScan), child abuse history clearance, TB, and drug test.


Vision To Learn is committed to a diverse staff and to a culture that holds equity as a value and a priority. VTL welcomes applicants who bring a variety of perspectives, experiences, and competencies. People of color, women, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ persons are strongly encouraged to apply. VTL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, party or political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any illegal or prohibited factor.


Education:

  • Doctorate (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Optometry License (Required)