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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Technician

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Vernon Hills, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Optometric Technician

Vernon Hills, IL ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The major responsibility of the Optometric Office Technician is to assist the Managing Optometrist in the technical and administrative operation of an optometric practice. The position will interact ...

Showing results 21-40

Optometry Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Chicago, IL is $17.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $19.33 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Optometry Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,897 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Job description

Position Summary

The Optometrist provides professional comprehensive eye care services to pediatric and adult patients of the Lawndale Christian Health Center. They provide quality patient-centered care. The Optometrist will report directly to the CCO of Operations.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide quality eye exams and corrective lenses as needed for LCHC patients
  • Examine patients in an efficient and timely manner
  • Comfortable with medically based optometry, management of diabetics, glaucoma, urgent anterior segment and retinal disease management and referrals.
  • Communicate with primary care providers as needed.
  • Provide clinical instruction to optometry students.
  • Participate in peer/chart review, performance evaluations, and quality improvement efforts.
  • Attend programmatic meetings
  • Participate in continuing education, including Life Support Training, to maintain the skills necessary to perform Optometrist duties as required by the State.
  • Maintain the physical health required to perform duties with the ability to stand and bend 85% of the time; maintains current immunizations and up-to-date PPD.
  • Maintains communication with Administration regarding personal issues related to drugs, felonies, discipline, loss of license or privileges, litigation where the provider or clinic is harmed or at risk, or other serious issues.
  • Other duties as assigned

Compliance and Documentation

  • Confirms patient identity according to current procedure before rendering any service
  • Thoroughly, accurately, and promptly documents all service rendered in the electronic medical record for every patient.
  • Performs all tests, procedures, and other services according to the policy and procedure of LCHC, notify the appropriate supervisor in a timely manner of instrument or procedural problems.
  • Knowledgeable of and in compliance with CLIA, OSHA, and JCAHO regulations for safety, infection control, equipment operation, and other applicable areas.
  • Participates in proficiency testing as required by LCHC or departmental policy to ensure that proper standards of care are being maintained
  • Maintains confidentiality of patient health information in accordance with HIPAA and other applicable regulations.

Required Knowledge, Education, Experience or Licensure

  • The Optometrist must be currently licensed to practice Optometry in the state of Illinois. Must document completion of O.D. degree.
  • Five-years' experience or residency training preferred.