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Optometric Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Summary Doctor of optometry, providing primary vision care for our large and growing patient base. Perform eye exams to diagnose vision problems and eye disease. Opportunities for care of pediatric ...

Summary Doctor of optometry, providing primary vision care for our large and growing patient base. Perform eye exams to diagnose vision problems and eye disease. Opportunities for care of pediatric ...

Optometrist - Part-Time

Portland, OR · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

S. , we are always seeking patient-focused, team-oriented Optometrists to join our growing network. This is an ongoing part-time opportunity ideal for doctors who want a flexible schedule while ...

Optometrist - Part-time

Ridgefield, WA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Overview We are hiring an optometrist to join our growing practice in Southwest Washington. The position is part‑time, primarily seeing patients in our Heron Gate (Ridgefield) office with some time ...

Showing results 41-60

Optometric Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do optometric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometric assistant in Portland, OR is $17.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $19.62 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optometric jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Optometric jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Optometric Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Optometric Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optometric Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,431 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Optometrist (20749)

EyeHealth Northwest

Milwaukie, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


EyeHealth Northwest rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Summary

Doctor of optometry, providing primary vision care for our large and growing patient base. Perform eye exams to diagnose vision problems and eye disease. Opportunities for care of pediatric, complex contact lens, low-vision medical, and surgically comanaged patients. Technician support, training (e.g. complex CL), continuing education, professional fees reimbursement and, periodic in-house CME programs provided. Incentive bonus.

Leadership

Work with and lead a team, including technician and CL technician; coordinate with clinic operations manager and Chief Operations Officer. 

 Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Communicate with patients and team members in a professional manner.
  • Perform routine vision exams and provide prescriptions for glasses and contact lens.
  • Perform comprehensive medical eye exams and advanced diagnostic testing as needed.
  • Educate patients on diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care.
  • Accurately and promptly document all patient interactions in the EMR system.
  • Bill for all services provided including contact lens fittings.
  • Provide postoperative care for surgical patients.
  • Work collaboratively with ophthalmologists and optometrists in a team-oriented and patient focused setting.
  • Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities.
  • Protect confidential patient information and use good judgment in sharing patient information in a manner that is consistent with patient care and current laws and regulations, including HIPAA.
  • Adherent to all safety standards as established by company policy and OSHA requirements.
  • Perform work in compliance with company policy, department procedures and regulatory requirements, including State and Federal laws and regulations.
 Secondary Functions
  • Other duties which may be necessary or desirable to serve the patient and support the success of the department or the company overall.
Education and/or Experience; Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations (Minimum Requirements)
  • A Doctor of Optometry and a current license, in good standing, in Oregon State.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of devices, equipment and tools used in the examination of the eyes.
  • Possess excellent communication skills.
  • Possess excellent interpersonal and people management skills.
Physical Demands / Work Environment
  • Majority of work is performed in a general office environment. Exposure to moderate levels of noise in a well-lit, well-ventilated and moderately paced environment.
  • Visual acuity is adequate to perform job duties, including reading information from printed sources and computer screens.                
  • Manual/finger dexterity as necessary to perform daily job duties.
  • Occasionally required to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.
  • Occasionally required to sit for extended periods of time.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; lift, push, pull and/or carry objects up to 20 pounds.
Reasonable Accommodations

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

EHN believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our overall success.  That contribution should not be limited by assigned responsibilities. This job description is designed to outline primary functions, qualifications, and job scope, but is not intended to limit the employee or EHN to only those job functions identified. EHN expects each employee to offer his or her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure superior customer service, quality patient care, and the success of our business.


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