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Optometrist Assistant Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

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Optometrist Assistant information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$13

$16

$24

How much do optometrist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometrist assistant in Springfield, MO is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $16.39 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 job categories do people searching Optometrist Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Optometrist Assistant jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Optometrist Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Optometrist Assistant job openings:
Optometrist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometrist Assistant job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,892 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Optometric Technician - Medical Assistant - Part Time

National Vision

Springfield, MO • On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Part-time

Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

National Vision rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Company Description
America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retailers in the United States. The America's Best brand continues to grow with over 1,000 stores and counting. Each location combines both parts of the optical equation - eyewear and eye care - into one excellent experience at a single low price.
For more details about America's Best, visitAmericasBest.com
At National Vision, we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible.
The optometric technician is key for keeping patient flow efficient, assisting the optometrist by conducting pre-screenings and testing prior to the Doctor's examination. The valuable vision tests they conduct help the optometrist provide the best care possible. This position does not require optical experience or certification, training provided!
Job Description
What would you do? - The Specifics
  • Ensure high quality patient care.
  • Maintain a professional atmosphere and appearance of doctor's office and pretest room.
  • Understand ocular terminology and diseases and know the ocular abbreviations.
  • Explain to the patient the types of preliminary examinations.
  • Complete necessary paperwork and perform testing on patients prior to doctor examination.
  • Promote visual field testing and retinal screenings to eligible patients.
  • Perform exam pre-screening.
  • Review prescriptions and/or patient information carefully and identify special needs. Consult with the optician, Doctor or Retail Management when necessary.
  • Ensure equipment, both Doctor's and pre-test, is properly maintained.

Qualifications
Are you the right fit? - The Suitable Talent
  • Previous retail/optical experience preferred, but not required.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to learn optical knowledge.
  • Able to give instruction in a clear and concise manner to customers.
  • Effective interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Detail-oriented.
  • Multitasking and time-management skills.
  • Professional attitude and appearance.

Additional Information
At National Vision, we reward hard work with competitive pay, bonus opportunities, and a benefits package to support you and your family now and in the future.
Our Benefits Include:
  • 401k retirement savings with company match and stock purchase plan
  • Paid sick time
  • Parental leave
  • Employee eyewear discount
  • College scholarship program

Focus on Professional Growth and Career Fulfillment:
  • Training programs available
  • Access to educational courses
  • Emphasis on internal promotions and career advancement

At National Vision, you'll enjoy more than just a job - you'll have the chance to thrive in a rewarding career, surrounded by a supportive team and endless opportunities for growth. Join us today and see your future clearly!
We are an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

What National Vision employees say

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About National Vision

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Vision we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible. National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,300 stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We operate five retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, Vision Centers inside select Walmart stores and Vista Optical inside Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We employ over 14,000 people including a network of over 2,000 optometrists. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1990

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