ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optometrist Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Elevate Eyecare

Zumbrota-Optician

Zumbrota, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow ... Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty. * Assist ...

Elevate Eyecare

Zumbrota-Optician

Zumbrota, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow ... Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty. * Assist ...

All JobsOptometrist JobsOptometrist Assistant JobsOptometrist Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

Optometrist Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$15

$18

$27

How much do optometrist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometrist assistant in Rochester, MN is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become an optometrist assistant?

To become an optometrist assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include good communication, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of eye care; some employers may prefer or require on-the-job training or certification in medical assisting or ophthalmic procedures.

What do optometrist assistants do?

Optometrist assistants support optometrists by preparing exam rooms, assisting patients during eye exams, and handling administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records. They may also help with selecting and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, often using basic ophthalmic tools and equipment. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are important in this role.

How do you become an optometrist assistant?

To become an optometrist assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue postsecondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Relevant skills include knowledge of eye care procedures and good communication, and some employers offer on-the-job training. Certification from organizations like the American Optometric Association can enhance job prospects.

What is an optometrist assistant?

An optometrist is a medical professional who provides vision and eye care. An optometrist assistant, also called an “optometric assistant,” works with the optometrist to ensure the office runs smoothly. As an optometrist assistant, your job duties include scheduling appointments, filing paperwork, handling other bookkeeping tasks, and answering the phone. You may also have some clinical responsibilities, such as performing pretests for vision exams, prepping exam rooms, cleaning and setting up equipment, and showing patients how to care for contact lenses.

What are the typical responsibilities of an optometrist assistant during a patient’s visit?

As an Optometrist Assistant, you’ll often be the first point of contact for patients, responsible for tasks such as taking patient histories, performing preliminary vision tests, and preparing examination rooms. You’ll assist the optometrist by handling equipment, administering eye drops as instructed, and educating patients about eye care or eyewear options. This role also involves managing appointment schedules, maintaining patient records, and ensuring that the clinic runs smoothly. Collaboration with the optometrist, office staff, and optical technicians is a key part of providing efficient, high-quality patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optometrist assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optometrist Assistant, you need a solid understanding of basic eye care procedures, patient scheduling, and administrative tasks, usually supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and vision testing equipment is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient patient care, accurate record-keeping, and a smooth workflow within an eye care practice.

What is the difference between Optometrist Assistant vs Optician?

AspectOptometrist AssistantOptician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job training or certificationHigh school diploma; certification or license often required
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care officesOptical stores, eyewear retail outlets
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist optometrists, prepare patients, perform basic testsFabricate, fit, and dispense eyewear, assist customers

Optometrist Assistants support optometrists with patient care and clinic tasks, while opticians focus on eyewear fitting and sales. Both roles require related certifications and work in eye care environments, but their primary duties differ significantly.

More about Optometrist Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Optometrist Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN? For Optometrist Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometrist Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Optometrist Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Optometrist Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Optometrist Assistant job openings:
Optometrist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometrist Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,873 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Zumbrota-Optician

Elevate Eyecare

Zumbrota, MN • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and customer-focused Optician to join our dynamic team committed to providing exceptional eye care services. As a vital member of our clinic, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the overall patient experience through expert guidance in frame selection, lens options, and eyewear customization. Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow team members, are central to our clinic's success.
Responsibilities:
Eyewear Consultation and Selection:
  • Provide personalized eyewear consultations, considering patients' style preferences, facial features, and lifestyle.
  • Guide patients in selecting frames that complement their individual needs and preferences.
  • Educate patients on lens options, coatings, and enhancements, ensuring they make informed decisions about their eyewear.
  • Collaborate with optometrists to align lens recommendations with patient prescriptions and visual needs.
  • Conduct frame adjustments to ensure optimal comfort and fit.
  • Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Assist patients in placing orders for eyewear, including lenses and frames.
  • Collaborate with the team to manage inventory, ensuring a well-stocked selection of frames and lenses.
  • Provide support for contact lens fittings and instructions, coordinating with optometrists for seamless integration into patient care plans.

Customer Service Excellence:
  • Cultivate a positive and customer-friendly atmosphere, ensuring a high level of satisfaction among patients.
  • Address patient concerns with empathy and professionalism, contributing to a positive overall experience.

Team Collaboration and Growth:
  • Work closely with fellow team members, including optometrists, optometric technicians, and the front desk staff, fostering a collaborative clinic environment.
  • Communicate effectively to ensure the seamless delivery of patient care services.
  • Stay informed about industry trends, new eyewear technologies, and advancements.
  • Participate actively in training opportunities to enhance individual and team skills.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; optician experience is a plus
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational abilities.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Elevate Eyecare is a growing network of optometry practices with team members who are passionate about delivering the best outcomes for patients.
Our vision is to be the best place to work and to deliver the ultimate patient experience to an ever-increasing number of people.
This is achieved through our four core values: patient first, growth-oriented, respect, and fun.
Experience local eyecare... elevated.

Apply