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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Saco, ME (NOW HIRING)

Vision Source

Optometric Technician

Rochester, NH

$15 - $19/hr

Educate and instruct the patient on insertion, removal, and proper care of contact lenses.  * Assist the Optometrist as needed during examinations. * Assist the patient in making decisions about ...

All JobsOptometry JobsOptometry Assistant JobsOptometry Assistant Jobs in Saco, ME

Optometry Assistant information

See Saco, ME salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Saco, ME is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.62 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 cities near Saco, ME are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Saco, ME with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Saco, ME as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,503 per year, or $18 per hour.
Optometric Medical Technician - North Offices

Optometric Medical Technician - North Offices

Maine Optometry

Brunswick, ME • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Optometric Medical Technician

Full-time, in-person technician

North locations: Lewiston, Brunswick, and Freeport.

Starting wage $20.00/hour

$500 Sign on bonus (CPO Certified)

Hours of Operation:

Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tuesday - Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (roughly one day a month)

What We Offer:

  • Competitive starting pay - pay is commensurate with experience
  • 401K retirement savings plan
  • Health insurance
  • Paid vacation time
  • Eyeglass and contact lens benefits
  • Nine Holidays
  • And even more benefits!


If you're friendly, detail-oriented, and eager to contribute to a positive work environment, we want to hear from you! Experience in healthcare or customer service is a plus but not required – we provide comprehensive training.


Summary / Objective

We are a private practice Optometry office with several locations throughout southern and central Maine looking to grow our team! We need technicians to assist our optometrists in providing excellent patient care in a fast-paced clinic. Looking for reliable, fast learning, customer service-oriented individuals interested in a career in healthcare. We are a very medically oriented office with extensive specialty testing for eye disease but also see routine exams for contact lenses and glasses as well as eye emergencies. This keeps things fresh and exciting since no two days are the same!

The Optometric Medical Technician helps the Optometrist with eye examinations, performs admin duties, and maintains and cleans the examination equipment.

To be a successful Optometric Medical Technician, you should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills. You should also be detail-oriented and meticulous, with a keen interest in maintaining ocular equipment.

Essential Functions

  • Assisting with patient care and eye examinations
  • Explaining the testing process to patients, preparing them, and administering tests on visual capabilities
  • Taking patient histories, and accurately entering information into the medical record
  • Keeping records and inventory, and taking notes during examinations
  • Assisting patients on the insertion and removal of contact lenses as well as educating patients on the care and maintenance of lenses
  • Maintaining a clean environment for the patient
  • Performing minor maintenance and repairs on examination equipment

Optometric Technician Qualifications

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Optometry Office experience preferred, not required
  • An Optometric Technician Certification is preferred, not required, and we will help you obtain certification!
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
  • Self-motivation, and ability to work under pressure.
  • Ability to manage time and multiple tasks effectively.
  • Maintains and demonstrates knowledge and understanding of patient privacy rights under HIPAA guidelines.
  • Maintains regular in-person attendance