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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Anchorage, AK (NOW HIRING)

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for dispensing opticianry services in support of the optometry program and serves as an optometric assistant to facilitate the provision of ...

Description We are seeking a friendly and organized Optometry Clinic Receptionist to join our team ... Administrative / Clinic Support: * Assist with administrative tasks and operational support ...

Alaska EyeCare-Floating Optician

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow ... Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty. * Assist ...

Alaska EyeCare-Tech

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$20 - $23/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 ...

Optometry Assistant information

See Anchorage, AK salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Anchorage, AK is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $19.13 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 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 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 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.

How do I become an optometry assistant?

To become an optometry assistant, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and may complete on-the-job training or a certification program. Skills in customer service, basic medical knowledge, and familiarity with optical equipment are beneficial for this role.

What do optometry assistants do?

Optometry assistants support eye care professionals by preparing exam rooms, assisting with patient check-in and history collection, performing basic vision tests, and handling administrative tasks. They often use ophthalmic equipment and need good communication skills to ensure smooth clinic operations. Certification or training in eye care procedures can enhance job prospects.

What qualifications do you need to be an optometry assistant?

Optometry assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers prefer post-secondary coursework in health sciences. On-the-job training is common, and skills in customer service, basic computer use, and knowledge of optometry procedures are beneficial. Certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs in Anchorage, AK?

The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Anchorage, AK are:

What are popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Anchorage, AK?

For Optometry Assistant jobs in Anchorage, AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Anchorage, AK look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Anchorage, AK are:

Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Anchorage, AK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,572 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Southcentral Foundation

Wasilla, AK • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Southcentral Foundation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Optician Apprentice I

Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24

Optician Apprentice II

Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80

Summary of Job Responsibilities:

The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for dispensing opticianry services in support of the optometry program and serves as an optometric assistant to facilitate the provision of clinical optometric care to customer-owners.

The Optician position has two (2) job levels. Progression from Optician Apprentice to Optician is required and must be attained within two (2) years.

Qualifications:

SCF programs are established to serve a primary population comprised of Alaska Native people who are affiliated with Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI) and Alaska Native and American Indian people within SCF’s geographical service area. Employees should have a thorough understanding of the cultures and the needs of this population. Such knowledge is critical to ensure the achievement of SCF’s vision of a Native Community that enjoys physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and mission of working together with the Native Community to achieve wellness through health and related services:

  1. High School diploma; OR GED.
  2. Licensed as a Dispensing Optician Apprentice in the State of Alaska; OR become licensed within two (2) months of hire as a Dispensing Optician Apprentice.
  3. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.

Additional Qualifications for Dispensing Optician: Meets all requirements of Optician Apprentice in addition to the following:

Licensed as an Optician in the State of Alaska within two (2) years of being a licensed Dispensing Optician Apprentice.

Alaska Native/American Indian Preference in Employment:

Pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, as amended, SCF pursues a policy of Alaska Native/American Indian preference in hiring, contracting, and training.

Employee Health Requirements:

To protect the health of customer-owners and employees, Southcentral Foundation (SCF) requires health screenings and immunizations for all new and current employees. SCF's philosophy of care is built on creating and maintaining trusting relationships with customer-owners, and a healthy workforce is an important part of that commitment.

Following SCF's Employee Health Procedure, including all required job-related health screenings and immunizations, is a condition of employment. The procedure is based on the latest scientific evidence and recommendations from public health experts.

New employees must complete all required health screenings and immunizations before their first day of work. Current employees must complete any additional screenings or immunizations that become necessary due to workplace conditions, public health concerns, or newly available vaccines that help protect coworkers and the community.


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