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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Jackson, MI (NOW HIRING)

Optometry Assistant information

See Jackson, MI salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Jackson, MI is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.55 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 Jackson, MI? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Jackson, MI are:
What cities near Jackson, MI are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Jackson, MI with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Jackson, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,564 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Front Desk Optometrist's Tech PT Jackson, MI #277

Front Desk Optometrist's Tech PT Jackson, MI #277

Eyemart Express

Jackson, MI

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Front Desk Associate (Optometrist’s Technician) Part Time

Company Overview: 30 years ago Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI, and has since expanded to over 245 stores in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices, while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. We’re not like everyone else—with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses—our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nation’s top optical retailers and help improve lives by helping people see better.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.

Job Description: The Dr's Tech, also known as an Optometrist Technician or Optical Technician, will primarily assist under the store Doctor. The general responsibilities of this position are to service all customers who enter the Doctor’s office and assist them with the delivery of exam services as well as the purchase of contact lenses. This person is responsible for maintaining company standards while: answering the telephone, greeting patients, performing the “pre-test”, selling contact lenses, communicating Eyemart’s specials and everyday low prices, meeting sales goals, data entry into the computer, following A/R procedures, performing I & R (insertion and removal) training, ordering and dispensing contact lenses, troubleshooting customer complaints, filing, and reporting as necessary. The Dr’s Tech is also responsible for performing any related work as directed by a Manager or Doctor.

Responsibilities:

  • Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service to all patients.

  • Sales and Promotions: Maintain knowledge of current sales and promotions as well as policies regarding payment, returns, and exchanges.

  • Transaction Processing: Compute and process payment transactions/refunds using the in-house Point of Sale system.

  • Administrative Tasks: Perform other administrative tasks as assigned.

  • Insurance Claims: Process insurance claims efficiently.

  • Product Knowledge: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of products.

  • Patient Files: Create and maintain patient files, following company and HIPAA policies regarding confidentiality.

  • Data Entry: Input customer information into the computer system accurately.

  • Patient Assessment: Assess and interpret patient’s needs/wants based upon prescription requirements, facial features, lifestyle, and occupation, and suggest the most appropriate products (i.e., frames, lens type, coatings).

  • Patient Sign-In: Sign-in patients. Call and clearly document any insurance eligibility information before any services are provided. Make and maintain patients’ charts per local Doctor specifications. File patient charts daily.

  • Pre-Test Procedures: Perform a thorough “pre-test” as directed by the local Doctor. For example: NCT, auto-refraction, auto-keratometry, color test, brief medical history, visual acuity, load phoropter, etc. Follow the local pathogen control policy as set by the local Doctor.

  • Contact Lens Orders: Order and receive contact lenses. Call customers daily for pick-up, job status, and any special order or production delays. Deliver contact lenses to patients. Assist with inventory control, for example, receiving stock, maintaining the merchandising, monthly inventory, and loss prevention.

Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED.

  • Experience working in retail, customer service, or sales.

  • Experience working in the optical industry is preferred but not required. We are willing to train.

At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.

If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.

This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.


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