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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Kennewick, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Optometry Assistant information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Kennewick, WA is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.99 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 popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Kennewick, WA? For Optometry Assistant jobs in Kennewick, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Kennewick, WA are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Kennewick, WA with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Kennewick, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,300 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Staff Optometrist | Tri Cities Washington | 4 Day Work Week

Jackson Physician Search

Pasco, WA

$112K - $193K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

An award-winning independent clinic is in search of a BE/BC Optometrist to join their highly-collaborative and supportive team. Situated in Washington's tri-cities area, this state-of-the-art facility includes an in-house pharmacy, optometry, dental, medical, and patient education services.
• 4-day work-week.

As a member of the dental team, this position is involved in the following duties:

  1. Perform dental procedures on patients according to ADA standards.
  2. Supervise/manage/train dental department staff, including residents assigned by executive leader.

Dental Provider Duties:

  1. Interpretation of radiological images to prepare and execute patient treatment plans.
  2. Provide patient dental education with assistance from interpreters as needed.
  3. Document services on fee slips and in the electronic dental record within 72-hours of patient visit.
  4. Ability to demonstrate a working knowledge of HIPAA and patient privacy regulations.
  5. Collaborate with interdisciplinary care teams as needed to ensure positive patient outcomes.

Clinical Duties:

  1. Assist with the training of new dental assistants.
  2. Supervise dental staff in absence of other leadership.
  3. Consult on the purchase of new dental equipment.
  4. Perform composite restorations
  5. Perform silver amalgam restorations
  6. Perform simple and surgical dental extractions
  7. Treat patients with moderate to severe dental infection.
  8. Perform root canal therapy procedures.
  9. Fabricate complete and partial dentures.
  10. Upon successful completion of approved training programs, privileging and credentialing, responsible for the administration of orthodontia, pediatrics and/or implant treatment plans.
  11. Participate in chart audits and quality assurance evaluations.
  12. Other duties as assigned.
  13. Promotes a positive work culture and upholds clinic policies and procedures, including the WE CARE standards of Behavior.
  14. Must uphold confidentiality at all times in regards to CBHA activities, reports, financials, patient health information and other proprietary information specific to CBHA.

Qualifications

Professional and Technical Knowledge:

Maintain authoritative skill and knowledge in the principles of sound dental practice.

License and Certification:

  1. Licensed to practice dentistry in Washington State.
  2. Must have a DEA license.
  3. Possesses CPR certification or ability to obtain within designated timeframe.
  4. Possesses AIDS education or ability to obtain within designated timeframe.

Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: $112,980 - $193,000 Annual
Bonus/Commission: Yes
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About Jackson Physician Search

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Named a Top 100 Best Place to Work in Healthcare annually since 2016, Jackson Physician Search fosters a close-knit but competitive environment that encourages both individual & team success. JPS is a proud member of the Jackson Healthcare family of companies, recently voted the #1 Best Place to Work in Atlanta by the Business Chronicle.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Alpharetta, GA, US

Year founded

1978

Social media

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