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Optometry Assistant Jobs in Waterville, ME (NOW HIRING)

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Optometry Assistant information

See Waterville, ME salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do optometry assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry assistant in Waterville, ME is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.70 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 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 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 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 Waterville, ME are hiring for Optometry Assistant jobs? Cities near Waterville, ME with the most Optometry Assistant job openings:
Optometry Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Assistant job openings in Waterville, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,751 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Ophthalmic Assistant Technician

Maine Eye Care Assoc

Waterville, ME • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description:

Job Description

POSITION: Ophthalmic Assistant Technician

DEPARTMENT: Technician

REPORTS TO: Clinic Manager

DATE: 06/09/2025

SUMMARY: The Ophthalmic Assistant Technician will demonstrate consistent and efficient quality patient preparation for the physician exam and will contribute to overall team performance while achieving consistent positive patient experiences. The Ophthalmic Assistant Technician will provide assistance to the physician and the patient in a compassionate, professional manner.

I.QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Excellent communication with Supervisors and Peers.
  2. Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
  3. Work directly with Ophthalmologists and Optometrists to ensure ease of patient flow and excellent patient care.
  4. Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
  5. Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
  6. Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
  7. High School diploma or equivalent
  8. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant/Technician (preferred)

II. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  1. Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching outward, reaching above shoulder, squatting or kneeling, bending. Frequent lifting of 10 pounds or less, occasional lifting of 11-50 pounds. Frequent pushing or pulling of 12 pounds or less, occasional pushing or pulling of 13-100 pounds.
  2. Vision (Near, Distance, Color, Peripheral, Depth Perception)
  3. Sense of sound (normal range of hearing)
  4. Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) (gloves, face mask, eye shield, gown)
  5. An office environment with a controlled atmosphere. Possible exposure to staff or patients with communicable diseases and blood borne pathogens.

III. POSITION DUTIES

  1. Collect information from the patient and enter into a computerized record management system.
  2. Always verify patients name and date of birth.
  3. Perform a variety of testing procedures with and for patients.
  4. Assist the physician with minor office procedures.
  5. Perform vision screenings and testing.
  6. Process prescriptions.
  7. Triage patient telephone calls.
  8. Answer phones, assist patients and schedule appointments.
  9. Other duties as assigned.

Acknowledgement of Receipt and Understanding of Job Description

Employee signature: ___________________________________________

Director signature: _____________________________________________

Requirements: