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Optometry Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

One to two years ophthalmology/ optometry group experience preferred. CPR certification required and COA required. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATIONS: Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA ...

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Optometry Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do optometry technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry technician in Riverside, CA is $19.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will optometry get replaced by AI?

Optometry technicians perform tasks such as conducting preliminary eye tests and assisting with patient care, which currently require human judgment and hands-on skills. While AI and automation can support certain diagnostic processes, they are unlikely to fully replace the technician's role, as patient interaction and clinical judgment remain essential components of eye care. Technology may augment the job, but human oversight will continue to be important in optometry settings.

What does an optometrist technician do?

An optometry technician assists optometrists by preparing patients for eye exams, performing preliminary tests such as measuring visual acuity and eye pressure, and maintaining equipment. They may also help with patient records and instruct patients on contact lens care, often working in clinical or optical settings and requiring knowledge of ophthalmic tools and procedures.

What are Optometry Technicians?

Optometry Technicians, also known as ophthalmic or optometric assistants, are healthcare professionals who support optometrists in providing eye care services. They assist with pre-exam procedures, perform basic vision tests, maintain equipment, and help patients with eyewear selection and fittings. Their role is essential in ensuring that eye examinations run smoothly and patients receive quality care. Optometry Technicians also handle administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and managing patient records.

What is the highest salary for an ophthalmic technician?

The highest salaries for ophthalmic technicians can reach around $50,000 to $60,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or certifications. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise, with some technicians earning higher wages in metropolitan areas or in specialized clinical settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optometry Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optometry Technician, you need knowledge of basic eye anatomy, visual testing procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with optical instruments, electronic medical records (EMR) systems, and vision testing equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help technicians interact with patients and support optometrists efficiently. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate patient assessments, smooth clinic operations, and a positive patient experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Optometry Technicians, and how can they be managed effectively?

Optometry Technicians often handle a fast-paced environment where they must balance patient care with technical tasks such as conducting pre-exam tests and maintaining equipment. One common challenge is adapting to rapidly changing patient schedules and ensuring accurate record-keeping under time constraints. Effective communication with both optometrists and patients is essential to manage workflow and minimize errors. Staying organized and proactively addressing equipment issues can also help technicians maintain smooth clinic operations.

What is the difference between Optometry Technician vs Optometry Assistant?

AspectOptometry TechnicianOptometry Assistant
CertificationsOften requires certification or training programsMay not require formal certification
ResponsibilitiesPerforms vision tests, prepares patients, assists with examsPrepares exam rooms, schedules appointments, handles administrative tasks
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care centersOptometry clinics, retail optical stores
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in eye care settingsFound in similar settings, often overlapping roles

Optometry Technicians and Optometry Assistants both work in eye care environments, but Technicians typically perform more clinical tasks and may require certification. Assistants focus more on administrative duties and support roles. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do I need a degree to be an optometric technician?

An optometric technician typically does not need a college degree but must complete specialized training or certification programs. Employers often look for technical skills, knowledge of eye care procedures, and certification such as the Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) credential. On-the-job training is also common in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Optometry Technician jobs in Riverside, CA? For Optometry Technician jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Technician jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optometry Technician jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optometry Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Optometry Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,294 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Vision Front Desk Patient Support Associate / Receptionist

Serve The People

Orange, CA

$21 - $23/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Vision Front Desk Patient Services Associate is responsible for providing administrative and clerical support to ensure the efficient operation of the Health Center. This role involves responding to requests for information and assistance from patients and providers, scheduling appointments, verifying patient information, collecting and recording data, maintaining and updating records and files, and facilitating the overall coordination of patient care. The following statements for this position reflect only some specific responsibilities and are considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job as identified and shall not be considered a detailed description of all duties required that may be inherent in the position:

  • Works cooperatively with any technician to assure that the optometrist sees patients as quickly as possible.
  • Accurately schedules for the assigned optometrist, ensuring that schedule reflects appropriate clinician and effective use of clinical hours.
  • Monitors no-shows/cancellations for available slots where walk-ins or add-ons can be placed.
  • Pre-registers all patients for assigned clinicians, asking and recording answers to all pre-registration questions.
  • Deletes the day's cancellations from the computer.
  • Greets patients and visitors in a prompt, courteous, and helpful manner.
  • Attaches all appropriate paperwork such as financial assistance forms and POS reports to encounter forms.
  • Performs financial transactions at the time of the visit, including collecting all co-payments, glasses payments, and keeping a record of unpaid amounts.
  • Assists patients in obtaining records from other facilities, including getting appropriate signatures on medical/vision records release forms.
  • Performs financial transactions at the time of the visit, including collecting all co-payments, glasses payments, and keeping a record of unpaid amounts.
  • Accurately closes the day and balances cash bag.
  • Answered telephones, handling calls as needed and taking messages when appropriate.
  • Maintains appropriate boundaries concerning vision advice, patient triage and priority of communication to clinicians; refers calls to Vision Manager or Vision Supervisor.
  • Evaluate financial status of all patients.
  • Determine patient eligibility for appropriate programs.
  • Assist patients with enrollment applications.
  • Follow up on all pending applications to ensure enrollment process is completed.
  • Adhere to HIPAA regulations and other relevant laws to protect patient privacy and confidentiality in all communications.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the executive leadership and administration.
Requirements
  • High school diploma required or equivalent
  • Basic computer literacy and arithmetic skills
  • Electronic Medical Record system experience (ECW preferred)
  • Experience working with patient registration procedures
  • Basic knowledge of medical terminology preferred
  • Optometry/Ophthalmology background (prefer)
  • High level of skill in maintaining calm, professional, courteous and helpful demeanor in times of pressure and stress.
  • Skill in making appropriate decisions to benefit patients and meet company objectives.
  • Ability to prioritize work and complete it on a timely basis with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to follow procedures.
  • Displays sensitivity in a multicultural environment.
Language Requirements
  • Spanish speaking, preferred.

Salary Description
$21.00 - $23.00