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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Ophthalmic Assistant plays a vital role in assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient care, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. This position ensures smooth clinic ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Job Summary The Ophthalmic Assistant plays a vital role in assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient care, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. This position ensures smooth ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Job Summary The Ophthalmic Assistant plays a vital role in assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient care, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. This position ensures smooth ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Job Summary The Ophthalmic Assistant plays a vital role in assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient care, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. This position ensures smooth ...

Madison College

PT Instructor Pool - Optometric

Madison, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

This position is responsible for instruction in Optometry at the college level. This includes ... Assist and advise students who have problems with assignments, tests, grades, course content ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Madison, WI · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Participates in the care and treatment of eye care patients utilizing skills unique to optometry ... Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

SSM Health has a full time opportunity for an Ophthalmic Assistant at our Sun Prairie location. If ... Participates in the care and treatment of eye care patients utilizing skills unique to optometry ...

SSM Health

Ophthalmic Assistant

Verona, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Participates in the care and treatment of eye care patients utilizing skills unique to optometry and ophthalmology. Demonstrates accountability to patients, peers and other health team members ...

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All JobsOptometry Assistant JobsOptometry Assistant Jobs in Madison, WI

Optometry Assistant information

See Madison, WI salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Madison, WI is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do optical assistants get paid?

Optometry assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on certifications, skills, and whether they work full-time or part-time in an optical practice or retail setting.

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; some employers prefer post-secondary training or certification in healthcare or optometry. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment are important. On-the-job training is common, and certifications such as Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) can enhance job prospects.

Is optometric assistant a good career?

An optometric assistant is a valuable role in eye care clinics, supporting optometrists with patient care, administrative tasks, and equipment operation. The position often requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and may involve certification or on-the-job training. It can offer stable employment and opportunities for advancement in the healthcare field.

How do I become an optometrist assistant?

To become an optometry assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, and some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge of eye care or customer service skills; certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.

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 Madison, WI? For Optometry Assistant jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Madison, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 11% Temporary, 1% Contract, 2% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,116 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Ophthalmic Assistant

Ophthalmic Assistant

SSM Health

Sun Prairie, WI • On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

SSM Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 521 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

526th of 870 rated healthcare providers

Job description

It's more than a career, it's a calling
WI-SSM Health Dean Medical Group Sun Prairie
Worker Type:
Regular
Job Highlights:
Ophthalmic Assistant
Location: Sun Prairie
Employment Type: Full-Time
At SSM Health, we are committed to providing exceptional care and creating a healing environment for our patients. We are seeking a dedicated Ophthalmic Assistant to join our ophthalmology team and support our mission of delivering compassionate, high-quality eye care.
Job Summary:
The Ophthalmic Assistant plays a vital role in assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient care, diagnostic testing, and clinical procedures. This position ensures smooth clinic operations and an excellent patient experience.
Responsibilities:
  • Prepare patients for eye examinations and procedures.
  • Perform preliminary vision tests, including visual acuity, tonometry, and refraction.
  • Assist with diagnostic imaging such as OCT, fundus photography, and visual field testing.
  • Document patient history and maintain accurate medical records in the EMR system.
  • Educate patients on eye health, medications, and post-procedure care.
  • Maintain and clean ophthalmic instruments and equipment.
  • Support physicians during minor procedures and surgeries as needed.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; completion of an accredited ophthalmic assistant program preferred.
  • COA (Certified Ophthalmic Assistant) certification strongly preferred or willingness to obtain within 18 months of hire.
  • Previous experience in ophthalmology or optometry setting is a plus.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Why Join SSM Health?
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and certification support.
  • A mission-driven organization focused on holistic patient care.
  • Collaborative and supportive team environment.

Apply Today
Job Summary:
Participates in the care and treatment of eye care patients utilizing skills unique to optometry and ophthalmology. Demonstrates accountability to patients, peers and other health team members through positive customer relations and effective communication. Cares for children and adult patients of all ages.
Job Responsibilities and Requirements:
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists eye care providers in the exam and treatment of patients.
  • Initiates documentation of the patient's chief complaint, history of present illness, review of systems, and all pertinent ocular findings.
  • May perform testing to include visual acuity measurement, color vision testing, lensometry, keratometry, testing pupil function, tonometry, automated perimetry, evaluation of EOMs (Extra-Ocular Muscle), confrontation visual field testing, and other patient services as requested by the provider.
  • May act as a scribe by documenting (on behalf of the provider) all clinically relevant interaction and dialogue during the course of the patient visit. This will include: documenting history and exam, entering diagnoses, orders (medications, labs, imaging, consults, etc.), E&M (Evaluation & Management), follow up and patient instructions. Provides patient education under direction of eye care provider.
  • Assists with minor surgery procedures and laser treatments in the office, including application and removal of dressings as directed.
  • Inventories and maintains surgical instruments in accordance with system and department standards.
  • Completes requests for prescription refills as authorized by provider with full documentation in patient chart.
  • Screens patients and calls for emergency/urgent situations; obtains pertinent information for provider.
  • Works in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION
  • High School diploma/GED or 10 years of work experience

EXPERIENCE
  • One year health care experience

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Constant standing and walking.
  • Frequent use of hearing and speech to share information through oral communication.
  • Frequent use of hearing to distinguish body sounds and/or hear alarms, malfunctioning machinery, etc.
  • Frequent lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 0-25 lbs.
  • Frequent reaching, gripping, and keyboard use/data entry.
  • Frequent use of vision for distances near (20 inches or less) and far (20 feet or more) and to identify and distinguish colors.
  • Occasional bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, sitting, squatting and repetitive foot/leg and hand/arm movements.
  • Occasional use of vision to judge distances and spatial relationships.
  • Occasional lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 25-50 lbs.
  • Occasional lifting/moving patients.
  • Occasional use of smell to detect/recognize odors.
  • Occasional driving.

REQUIRED PROFESSIONAL LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
Resuscitation Certification Requirement: Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider (BLS HCP) required within 90 day of employment. Other resuscitation certifications may be required dependent on department.
State of Work Location: Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Wisconsin
  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)

Work Shift:
Day Shift (United States of America)
Job Type:
Employee
Department:
6650030164 SPC Ophth
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36
Benefits:
SSM Health values our exceptional employees by offering a comprehensive benefits package to fit their needs.
  • Paid Parental Leave: we offer eligible team members one week of paid parental leave for newborns or newly adopted children (pro-rated based on FTE).
  • Flexible Payment Options: our voluntary benefit offered through DailyPay offers eligible hourly team members instant access to their earned, unpaid base pay (fees may apply) before payday.
  • Upfront Tuition Coverage: we provide upfront tuition coverage through FlexPath Funded for eligible team members.

Explore All Benefits
SSM Health is an equal opportunity employer. SSM Health does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Click here to learn more.

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