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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Elevate Eyecare

ECOI Ankeny-Floating Tech

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Optometric Technician generates important preliminary information to be used by the optometrist ... Assists in training of other ophthalmic assistants & Assists with patient education. * Maintains ...

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Optometry Assistant information

See Ames, IA salary details

$11

$16

$22

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Ames, IA is $16.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optometry assistant?

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?

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 job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,037 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

ECOI Ankeny-Floating Tech

Elevate Eyecare

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description
Position Summary:
The Optometric Technician generates important preliminary information to be used by the optometrist; reviews the patient status and performs medical tests. Upholds the values of EyeCare Associates.
Essential Duties:
  • Reviews patient charts to ensure completeness and accuracy of information. Performs testing required by the type of exam scheduled, patient complaint, and history.
  • Acts as a scribe while the physician examines patient entering data into electronic medical records or handwrites in a paper chart, oversees patient flow.
  • Takes an ocular and systemic history and accurately record visual acuity.
  • Performs lensometry, refractometry, applanation tonometry, basic muscle balance testing, assess pupils, assess the anterior chamber, confrontation visual fields, and gross external exam. Administer diagnostic tests.
  • Administers topical ophthalmic or oral medications under the direction of the physician.
  • Assists with in-office procedures ensuring proper informed consent are obtained, sets up, and cleans up from procedures.
  • Perform advanced ophthalmic procedures.
  • Assists in training of other ophthalmic assistants & Assists with patient education.
  • Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of exam rooms during the workday.
  • Complies with all practice procedures and protocols. Complies with all State and Federal regulations.
  • Understands and accepts responsibility to report potential or suspected errors to supervisors.
  • Maintains a positive attitude consisting of cooperation, self-motivation, courtesy, and professionalism.
  • Other duties as assigned

Organizational and Compliance Duties:
  • Accountability - Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions or work performed. Willing to accept constructive criticism.
  • Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly with attention to all details of a project or task.
  • Adaptability - Ability to adapt to and facilitate change in the workplace.
  • Communication - Ability to communicate effectively with others using good listening skills and the spoken word. Ability to write clearly and concisely using good grammar and spelling.
  • Empathetic - Ability to appreciate and be sensitive to the feelings of patients and co-workers. Exhibits a cheerful demeanor with the ability to display good-natured tolerance of delay or adversity.
  • Initiative - Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal. Desire to excel, attempting non-routine tasks.
  • Judgment - The ability to formulate a sound decision using the available information.
  • Organized - Possessing the trait of being organized or following a systematic method of performing a task.
  • Reliability - Can be relied upon to demonstrate reliability in attendance and punctuality.
  • Team Player - The ability to work with others and independently for a common goal. Puts aside own individual needs to work toward the larger group objective and reinforce the contribution of others.

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