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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Laurel, MD (NOW HIRING)

Hero Practice Services

Optometric Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.95 - $22/hr

Optometric Assistant Become a hero and join us on our mission to help underserved kids! We are currently seeking an Optometric Assistant to administer visual tests, operate diagnostic equipment, and ...

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All JobsOptometry JobsOptometry Assistant JobsOptometry Assistant Jobs in Laurel, MD

Optometry Assistant information

See Laurel, MD salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Laurel, MD is $17.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.61 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 popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Laurel, MD?

For Optometry Assistant jobs in Laurel, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Laurel, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Laurel, MD are:

What cities near Laurel, MD are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs?

Cities near Laurel, MD with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:

Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Laurel, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,512 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Optometric Assistant, Kensington

Kaiser Permanente

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Optometric Assistant

Performs initial work-up and specialized tests for optometry patients. Assists optometrists with clinical tasks as directed by the optometrist.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Greets patients, enters data into medical records, and escorts patients to examination room.
  • Interviews each patient to obtain information about symptoms and documents information provided by patient in medical record.
  • Uses specialized equipment to test patients vision and condition.
  • Provides test results to provider and brings attention to abnormal results.
  • Assists optometrist to conduct examinations as directed.
  • Assists patients to understand spectacle and contact lens options following diagnosis by optometrist.
  • Cleans and maintains specialized equipment and work areas.
  • Performs other related duties as directed.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum one (1) year experience doing patient work-ups to include visual acuities, manual and automated lensometry, auto-refraction, non-contact tonometry and knowledge of contact lenses including the teaching of insertion and removal classes or completion of inter-departmental training program emphasizing above skills developed by the Optometry department.

Education:

  • High School Diploma OR General Education Development (GED) required.

License, Certification, Registration:

  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant within 6 months of hire from International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology OR Paraoptometric Technician Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association OR Paraoptometric Assistant Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association OR Paraoptometric Certificate within 6 months of hire from American Optometric Association

Additional Requirements:

  • Successfully demonstrated proficiency on initial skills assessment during the interview process.
  • Proficiency in the use of applicable computer software.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • BLS Certification preferred.

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