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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Provide staff training. Assist with direct health services: Including assisting physician, dentist, optometrist, X-ray and/or lab services. Minimum Qualification Requirements Licensure as a Licensed ...

Provide staff training. Assist with direct health services: * Including assisting physician, dentist, optometrist, X-ray and/or lab services Minimum Qualification Requirements Licensure as a Licensed ...

Optician PT

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS · Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims · Explain promotions and special lens ...

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Optometry Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Iowa is $16.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are optometry assistants?

Optometry assistants are healthcare professionals who support optometrists in providing eye care services to patients. Their responsibilities typically include performing preliminary vision tests, assisting with patient scheduling, handling administrative tasks, and helping patients select eyewear. They may also maintain and clean examination equipment and ensure patient records are up to date. Optometry assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of an optometry practice and enhancing patient experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Optometry Assistants during patient pre-testing, and how can they be managed?

Optometry Assistants often face challenges such as managing anxious or uncooperative patients during pre-testing procedures and ensuring accurate data collection for the optometrist. To address these, assistants can develop strong communication skills to explain procedures clearly and help patients feel at ease. Staying organized and familiar with the latest equipment also helps minimize errors. Regular training and teamwork with optometrists and fellow staff can further enhance efficiency and confidence in managing these situations.

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

To thrive as an Optometry Assistant, you need a basic understanding of eye care practices, familiarity with medical terminology, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of optometry-specific software (such as electronic health records), lensometers, autorefractors, and insurance billing systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help you excel in assisting both patients and optometrists. These skills are crucial for delivering efficient patient care, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring a smooth workflow in an optometric practice.

What is the difference between Optometry Assistant vs Optometry Technician?

AspectOptometry AssistantOptometry Technician
CredentialsUsually no formal certification required, on-the-job trainingOften requires certification or diploma in optometry assisting or related field
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care officesSimilar clinics, may perform more technical tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with patient check-in, preparing exam rooms, basic patient carePerforming preliminary tests, operating diagnostic equipment, assisting with exams
Industry UsageCommonly employed in eye care practicesLess common, more specialized technical role within optometry

Optometry Assistants primarily handle administrative tasks and basic patient care, while Optometry Technicians perform more technical testing and diagnostic procedures. Both roles are essential in eye care settings, but Technicians typically require additional training or certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Optometry Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optical Sales Associate - Mason City, IA

Optical Sales Associate - Mason City, IA

Shopko Optical

Mason City, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Shopko Optical rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description


Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Mason City, IA.

On the job training provided, no experience necessary.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide excellent patient and customer service in the selection, ordering and dispensing of eyewear. Complete pre-screening activities prior to patient exams. Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients

  • Competitive Wages & Incentives
  • 401K with Match
  • Vacation Pay/Personal Day
  • Volunteer Time Off
  • Sick Pay
  • Health & Wellbeing Benefits
  • Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • On the Job Training & Certification
  • Teammate Recognition Program

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

CUSTOMER SERVICE

· Provide excellent customer and patient service according to company and Optical Center standards

· Analyze patient eyewear needs

· Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings and frames to satisfy patient needs

· Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions

· Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally

· Assist patients with proper frame repairs and adjustments

· Show patients how to insert, remove and care for their contact lenses

· Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS

· Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims

· Explain promotions and special lens offerings to patients and customers

· Balance accounts

· Prepare work orders containing specific instructions for Optical Lab

· Process medical billing information

· Ensure proper merchandising of frame inventory

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

· High School Graduate or equivalent

· Maintain license as required by state

· To become Certified, teammate must complete Shopko OCE Certification requirements and calendar modules

· Previous experience in an office and/or optical dispensing is preferred

· Able to handle multiple customer interactions/phone calls at a time

· Able to work with patient eyewear needs including analyzing prescriptions, repairs and adjustments and lifestyle dispensing

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

· Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication

· Able to read and write at a high school graduate level

· Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time

· Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)

· Ability to lift 10 to 20 pounds

· Ability to see (Near, Distance, Color, and Depth Perception)

· Manual and finger dexterity, as well as hand/arm steadiness

· Ability to grip and hold items

· Good eye and hand coordination

· Able to operate a cash register, various optical equipment and tools

· Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines

· Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.



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