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Optometrist Assistant Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$23.55 - $28.11/hr

Collaborate with optometrists to ensure prescriptions are accurate and fulfill patients' needs. * Assist with administrative tasks such as insurance billing, processing glasses orders, processing ...

Optician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$23.55 - $28.11/hr

Collaborate with optometrists to ensure prescriptions are accurate and fulfill patients' needs. * Assist with administrative tasks such as insurance billing, processing glasses orders, processing ...

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Optometrist Assistant information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$16

$19

$29

How much do optometrist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometrist assistant in Santa Rosa, CA is $19.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 provide on-the-job training. Certification from organizations like the American Optometric Association can enhance job prospects.

Is it hard to become an optometrist assistant?

Becoming an optometrist assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or a short certification program. The role involves assisting with patient care, managing equipment, and supporting optometrists, and it generally does not require extensive formal education or licensing.

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 specialized tools and following specific protocols. Strong communication skills and knowledge of eye care procedures are important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optometrist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Optometrist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Optometrist Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Optometrist Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometrist Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometrist Assistant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Optometrist Assistant jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Optometrist Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optometrist Assistant job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,736 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Internal Medicine - Cardiology

VieMed Healthcare Staffing

Napa, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Optometrist Opportunity in Napa, California | Join a Leading Practice Discover a rewarding full-time optometry role in the vibrant Napa community! Enjoy a flexible schedule with no evenings, weekends, or on-call duties, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care in a dynamic practice setting. Quick Facts Location: Napa, CA Start Date: ASAP End Date/Duration: Permanent Shift: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Hours/Week: 40 hours Employment Type: Full-Time License/Certifications: Doctor of Optometry (OD); CA State Optometry License Experience: New Graduates and Experienced Optometrists Welcome Pay & Benefits Pay package discussed upon application Comprehensive benefits including: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off (PTO) and holidays Malpractice insurance Continuing Education (CE) opportunities 401(k) matching plan What You’ll Do Conduct comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosing visual and ocular health conditions Prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and therapeutic eye medications Manage and treat various ocular conditions and diseases Collaborate with a dedicated team to provide seamless patient care Educate patients on eye health, preventive care, and treatment options Support the development of a new outpatient cardiology and optometry clinic to serve primary care and community needs What You Need Valid California State Optometry License Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment About the Assignment Join a leading facility in Napa, CA, dedicated to enhancing patient eye health through a broad spectrum of optometric services. Be part of a growing, patient-centered community healthcare practice that values excellent care and professional growth. The facility emphasizes outpatient services, providing routine eye care and managing ocular conditions in a welcoming environment. VHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer (“EEO”)/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/E-Verify Employer and welcomes all to apply #LiveYourLife.