1

Optometry Assistant Jobs in Alabaster, AL (NOW HIRING)

Optometrist - Troy, AL

Homewood, AL

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

EyeCare Partners is a growing, clinically integrated partnership of optometry and ophthalmology ... Assistant Office Manager - Optical Experience Required Hoover, AL * Front Office Specialist Madison ...

To assist in the operation of UAB Eye Care by managing a high volume of medically necessary contact lens cases, professional dispensing of eyeglasses, and training optometry student interns. While ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optometry Assistant information

See Alabaster, AL salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Alabaster, AL is $14.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $15.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do optical assistants get paid?

Optometry assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on certifications, skills, and whether they work full-time or part-time in an optical practice or retail setting.

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; some employers prefer post-secondary training or certification in healthcare or optometry. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment are important. On-the-job training is common, and certifications such as Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) can enhance job prospects.

Is optometric assistant a good career?

An optometric assistant is a valuable role in eye care clinics, supporting optometrists with patient care, administrative tasks, and equipment operation. The position often requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and may involve certification or on-the-job training. It can offer stable employment and opportunities for advancement in the healthcare field.

How do I become an optometrist assistant?

To become an optometry assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, and some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge of eye care or customer service skills; certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.

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 cities near Alabaster, AL are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Alabaster, AL with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
School of Optometry-Assistant/Associate Professor-Optometry and Vision Science

School of Optometry-Assistant/Associate Professor-Optometry and Vision Science

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


University Of Alabama At Birmingham rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 538 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
School/College
School of Optometry
Title
School of Optometry-Assistant/Associate Professor-Optometry and Vision Science
Assignment Category
Full-Time
Rank
Assistant/Associate Professor
Tenure Status
Non-Tenure Track
Payroll Status
Faculty 12
Job Description
Professional clinical educators are sought in the areas of ocular disease, cornea/contact lenses, and other clinical specialties. Successful candidates will be expected to contribute to and advance the educational, clinical, service, and research/scholarship mission and objectives of the School. Clinical faculty are generally expected to (1) provide high quality patient care while educating and supervising student interns in the clinic setting, (2) provide high quality didactic and laboratory teaching in the optometry professional curriculum, and (3) participate in service activities that benefit the School, university, and the optometric profession. To a lesser degree, clinical faculty should contribute to scholarship related to their areas of interest
Required Qualifications
Must have a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited school or college of optometry. Eligible for licensure to practice the full scope of Optometry in the state of Alabama. Completion of a residency/fellowship program, or additional degree (MS, MPH, PhD), or minimum of three years equivalent clinical experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants who have completed a residency program related to ocular disease or cornea/contact lenses. Applicants without residency training, but with advanced clinical experience in these areas, will also be considered.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
F2648P
Open Date
05/16/2025
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Nondiscrimination Statement
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Pre-employment Background Check
A pre-employment background check investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
Drug/Nicotine Screen (if applicable)
About University of Alabama at Birmingham
To learn more about the University of Alabama at Birmingham click here.

What University Of Alabama At Birmingham employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Alabama at Birmingham logo

About University of Alabama at Birmingham

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is the heartbeat of Birmingham and an integral medical leader in the Southeast. The Birmingham campus is within walking distance of some of the best parks, entertainment, and dining in the region. UAB's three regional campuses expand their academic reach and responsibilities in addition to educating physicians in rural and underserved areas of the state. UAB is experiencing major and sustained investment and growth, due both to its exceptional research faculty and its culture of collaboration. Through concerted and strategic investments in its clinical and research enterprise, UAB has undergone an amazing transformation in the past five years and has strengthened its status and reputation as a leader in medical training, biomedical discovery, innovation, and patient care.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1859