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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Elevate Eyecare

Zumbrota-Optician

Zumbrota, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow ... Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty. * Assist ...

Elevate Eyecare

Zumbrota-Optician

Zumbrota, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Collaboration and teamwork with colleagues, including optometrists, front desk staff, and fellow ... Perform minor repairs and adjustments, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty. * Assist ...

All JobsOptometry JobsOptometry Assistant JobsOptometry Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MN

Optometry Assistant information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Rochester, MN is $17.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.04 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 Rochester, MN?

The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What are popular job titles related to Optometry Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Optometry Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometry Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometry Assistant jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:

Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,409 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant - Supplemental

Rochester, MN • On-site

Mayo Clinic
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 700 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Mayo Clinicexternal

$25.87 - $38.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The Ophthalmic Assistant is accountable for a broad range of duties related to the delivery of direct patient care within the Department of Ophthalmology. Patient care includes, but is not limited to, visual acuity measurements, ocular motility measurements, retinoscopy, refractometry, lensometry, tonometry, pupil function, anterior chamber depth, color vision, visual field, keratometry and contact lens fit, ocular examination with slit-lamp biomicroscopy, medical history, patient education, medication administration, ancillary testing and assisting with procedures. The Ophthalmic Assistant must determine testing methods most suitable for each patient. Accuracy and applicability of data is the responsibility of the Ophthalmic Assistant.


Qualifications

High school degree or equivalent and Certified as an Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician through JCAHPO or a Graduate of an accredited school of Ophthalmic Technology with an Associate's degree in Ophthalmic Technology. Strong refractometry skills are required. Job Specifications: Strong communication and organization skills, maturity and the ability to function in a high-paced, multi-specialty Ophthalmology Department. Basic computer knowledge is required. 
JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology) certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Association (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT), Certified Retinal Angiographer(CRA) or AOA (American Optometric Association) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) and Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) level. Current CPR Certification.


Exemption Status
Nonexempt
Compensation Detail
Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.; $25.87 - 38.05 / hour;
Benefits Eligible
No
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
8
Schedule Details
Supplemental Monday - Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Weekend Schedule
Not applicable
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Tricia HardingQualifications:

High school degree or equivalent and Certified as an Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician through JCAHPO or a Graduate of an accredited school of Ophthalmic Technology with an Associate's degree in Ophthalmic Technology. Strong refractometry skills are required. Job Specifications: Strong communication and organization skills, maturity and the ability to function in a high-paced, multi-specialty Ophthalmology Department. Basic computer knowledge is required. 
JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology) certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Association (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT), Certified Retinal Angiographer(CRA) or AOA (American Optometric Association) Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA) and Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) level. Current CPR Certification.

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

View All Mayo Clinic Jobs

What Mayo Clinic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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