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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Next Level Eye Care

Technician

Jessup, MD

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Technician Join our dynamic healthcare team as an Optometric Office Technician and Assistant, where you'll play a vital role in delivering exceptional patient care and supporting the smooth operation ...

Howard University

Optician

Washington, DC · On-site

$56K - $62K/yr

Knowledge of the field of optometry sufficient to assist in management of the retail location. Knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the eye. General knowledge of computer, sufficient to perform ...

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Optometry Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Washington is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I become an optometrist assistant?

To become an optometry assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include customer service, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment; some employers may provide on-the-job training or prefer candidates with certification in medical assisting or optometry support. No formal license is required, but understanding eye care procedures is beneficial.

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 qualifications do you need to be an optical assistant?

Optometry assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers prefer previous experience in healthcare or customer service. Certification or training in eye care or optical equipment can be beneficial, and strong communication skills are important for interacting with patients and staff.

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

Optometry assistants typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the work environment and additional skills such as knowledge of optical equipment or patient care.

What do optometry assistants do?

Optometry assistants support eye care professionals by preparing exam rooms, assisting with patient check-in and check-out, performing preliminary eye tests, and maintaining equipment. They often handle administrative tasks and may need knowledge of optometric procedures and tools. The role typically requires good communication skills and attention to detail.

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 Washington? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Washington? For Optometry Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you

Optometric Technician

Dr. Bermel and Associates

Leesburg, VA

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Ophthalmic Technician (Pretest + Front Desk Hybrid) – Bermel Vision & Aesthetics

Locations: Leesburg, Fairfax, and Gainesville, Virginia Job Type: Full-Time (up to 40 hours/week) Schedule: Rotating Saturdays required · Closed Sundays & most major holidays

The Role – Best of Both Worlds We are looking for a sharp, fast-learning Ophthalmic Technician who loves pretesting and can confidently jump to the front desk when needed. This is a true hybrid position in our heavy medical practice — one minute you’re performing OCTs, visual fields, and refractions, the next you’re welcoming patients, scheduling, and educating them on dry eye treatments, myopia control, or aesthetic services the doctor just recommended.

Daily Responsibilities

  • Perform complete pretest workups (auto-refraction, NCT, visual fields, OCT, fundus photos, lensometry, etc.)
  • Accurately input medical history and chief complaint into EHR
  • Scribe for the doctor when needed
  • Confidently explain and schedule recommended services (Lipiflow, Gentle Molding, TriLift, SmoothGlo, etc.)
  • Greet patients warmly, check in/out, answer phones, verify insurance, collect payments
  • Keep rooms stocked, instruments calibrated, and pretest area running smoothly
  • Cross-train and help wherever the day demands — we move fast and work as a team

Who Thrives Here

  • You learn new equipment and procedures quickly
  • You’re comfortable speaking with patients about medical and aesthetic recommendations without being “salesy”
  • You stay calm and professional in a busy medical environment
  • You genuinely enjoy making patients feel cared for from the moment they walk in

Requirements

  • 1+ years experience as an ophthalmic technician, optometric tech, or medical assistant (in eyecare strongly preferred)
  • Proficiency with OCT, visual fields, fundus photography, tonometry, and auto-refractometers
  • Experience checking insurance eligibility and collecting copays a plus
  • Excellent communication — you can explain glaucoma drops or TriLift in plain English
  • Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
  • CPR certification a bonus (we’ll help you get it if needed)

Perks

  • Competitive hourly pay + quarterly bonus potential
  • Health benefits, PTO, uniform allowance, generous eyewear discounts
  • Paid continuing education and certification support (COA, CPOC, etc.)
  • Real growth path — many of our techs move into lead tech, scribe, or management roles

If you love eyecare, love people, and want to be part of a growing practice that’s raising the bar in Northern Virginia — we want you on the team!