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Optometry Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Job Summary Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative relationship to provide patients with optimum levels of general optometric care. Under the direct ...

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Job Summary Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative relationship to provide patients with optimum levels of general optometric care. Under the direct ...

Opportunities for professional growth as you expand your expertise Qualifications Licensed (or eligible) to practice Optometry in the state where you'll practice Additional Information For more ...

Optometrist

Lake Elsinore, CA · Hybrid

$104K - $162K/yr

Doctor of Optometry degree * Experience in diagnosing and treating eye conditions * Proficiency in fitting soft contact lenses Company: DR HOMUTH in Lake Elsinore, California, Salary and Benefits:

Opportunities for professional growth as you expand your expertise Qualifications Licensed (or eligible) to practice Optometry in the state where you'll practice Additional Information For more ...

Optometrist

Riverside, CA · On-site

$119K/yr

Applicants must have a Doctor of Optometry degree from an educational program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) at the time the degree was obtained.

Doctor of Optometry (OD) from an accredited optometry school Valid state optometry license Ophthalmologist (MD or DO) from an accredited school Valid state ophthalmology license General Liability ...

Applicants must have a Doctor of Optometry degree from an educational program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) at the time the degree was obtained.

Doctor of Optometry (OD) from an accredited optometry school * Valid state optometry license * Ophthalmologist (MD or DO) from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General ...

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Optometry information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do optometry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry 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.

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

To thrive as an Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state licensure, and strong knowledge of eye health, vision correction, and diagnostic techniques. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as phoropters, autorefractors, slit lamps, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly help set top professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and positive patient experiences in a clinical setting.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry roles are often in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or working in private practice with advanced skills. Typically, optometrists with additional certifications, extensive experience, or those who own their practices tend to earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on geographic location and the complexity of patient care provided.

What are careers in optometry?

Careers in optometry involve assessing, diagnosing, and treating visual problems and eye health issues. Optometrists typically perform eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, and may provide pre- and post-operative care for eye surgeries, often working in clinics or private practices. Licensing and a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree are required to practice professionally.

What is optometry?

Optometry is a healthcare profession focused on examining, diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the eyes and visual system. Optometrists are trained to perform eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, detect eye diseases, and provide certain treatments. They play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and may also offer advice on eye care and vision protection. In many regions, optometrists work closely with ophthalmologists and other healthcare providers.

What is the difference between Optometry vs Ophthalmology?

AspectOptometryOphthalmology
Required CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD)Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) with ophthalmology specialization
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, retail optical stores, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, specialized eye clinics, surgical centers
Industry UsagePrimary eye care, vision testing, prescribing glasses/contact lensesMedical and surgical treatment of eye diseases, surgeries
Common Search/ComparisonOptometry vs Ophthalmology

Optometrists focus on vision care, eye exams, and prescribing corrective lenses, while ophthalmologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat eye diseases, perform surgeries, and provide comprehensive eye care. Both roles are essential in eye health, but they differ in training, scope, and services offered.

What are some common challenges optometrists face in managing patient care within a busy practice?

Optometrists often manage a high volume of patients each day, which can make it challenging to provide personalized care while staying on schedule. Balancing administrative responsibilities, such as documenting patient records and managing insurance claims, adds to the workload. Additionally, staying updated with advancements in eye care technology and maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations require ongoing professional development. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential for navigating these challenges and ensuring high-quality patient outcomes.

Will optometrists be replaced by AI?

Optometrists perform clinical assessments, diagnose eye conditions, and prescribe treatments, tasks that require complex decision-making and patient interaction. While AI can assist with vision testing and data analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace optometrists due to the need for personalized care and professional judgment. Technology will likely serve as a tool to enhance optometric practice rather than replace the role entirely.

Can an optometrist manage glaucoma?

An optometrist can diagnose and manage early-stage glaucoma through comprehensive eye exams, including intraocular pressure measurement and optic nerve assessment. However, advanced cases or those requiring surgical intervention are typically referred to an ophthalmologist, who has specialized training in medical and surgical treatment of glaucoma.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA? For Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optometry jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optometry job openings:
Infographic showing various Optometry job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,294 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

unicare

San Bernardino, CA

$19 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative relationship to provide patients with optimum levels of general optometric care. Under the direct supervision of the doctor, will provide technical and support assistance to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the doctors of optometry. Medical Assistant II works under the Clinic Manager to assist with maintaining efficient patient flow and quality care during clinic hours.  The Medical Assistant II works as part of a health care team including physicians, NP/PA’s, patient services representatives, medical records, health educators and social workers to provide comprehensive care in a non-judgmental manner.  Unicare Community Health Centers is a federally qualified health center providing comprehensive patient-centered primary care services including medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health, ophthalmology and outreach services to low income, multiethnic, uninsured and underinsured populations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time with reasonable accommodation.

  • Accurately record patients medical and visual history, review and prepare other clinical information (PST, Medicare refresh, etc.) for doctor(s).
  • Take and record patient vitals when indicated in EMR. Perform appropriate pre-testing, such as but not limited to assessing gross visual skills, extraocular muscle action and pupillary reflexes.
  • Perform OCT, Visual Fields and Diabetic Photos.
  • Maintain accurate records and reports as instructed by the doctor.
  • Utilize eCW system to schedule and review appointments for need and accuracy.
  • Interprets for the provider and staff as needed.
  • Instill eye-drops when ordered by the doctor. Assist in therapeutic procedures such as foreign body removal.
  • Receive and process phone calls and other patient communication, from patients, assess the nature of the situation and manage triage accordingly. Manage all aspects of doctor(s) schedule, including booking appointments.
  • Maintain diagnostic and therapeutic instruments and equipment to ensure that they are clean and accurate. Assess condition of instruments and arrange for repair and/or recalibration as necessary. Maintain instruments and medications for ophthalmic therapeutics; ensure that instruments and medications are available and sterile.
  • Respond to patient concerns and resolve or forward them to the proper person or area for resolution.
  • Coordinate patient optometric care with optical dispensing, membership services, family practice, ophthalmology, pharmacy and other Unicare departments and services.
  • Follow all Unicare policies, procedures, and behavior guidelines and standards for the treatment of members and confidentiality of their care.
  • Assist with intake, financial screening, and set-up for patient visits.
  • Assist as needed including medication refill requests, specialty and procedure referrals, pre and post clinic chart review.
  • Work with Manager to oversee dispensary logs and storage to maintain quality assurance.
  • Coordinate the inventory, ordering and supply stock maintenance of medical supplies.
  • Assists with daily and monthly quality assurance reviews including emergency kit check off.
 Non-Essential Functions
  • As directed by the Clinic Manager, performs other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.
   Professional Requirements
  • Adhere to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
  • Maintain current license, registrations and/or certifications.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
  • Report to work on time and as scheduled as attendance and punctuality is necessary.
  • Ability to work well with a multidisciplinary team.
  • Ability to problem solve and be self-motivated.
  • Maintain regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and local regulations.
  • Represent the organization in a positive and professional manner at all times.                                                
  • Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.                          
  • Communicate the mission, ethics and goals of the organization.
  • Must have excellent written and oral skills, strong organizational, problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Expected to have strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to understand and follow written/verbal instructions.
  • Able to work independently with little or no supervision.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or GED required.
  • Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred.
  • Completion of medical assistant training program preferred.
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience in an outpatient medical clinic or hospital, medical office setting.
  • One (1) year of previous experience in optometric or other ophthalmic practice.
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team.
  • Possess personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to corporate mission.
  • Flexible and able to multitask; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of policies and procedures as they relate to safe work practices.
  • Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including evenings.
  • Must be self-directed and work productively with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, Access, Outlook
  • Knowledge of Electronic Health Records
  • Thorough knowledge of basic science and optics, familiarity with optometric and/or ophthalmic procedure related to preliminary testing.

Basic knowledge of instillation of optometric diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceuticals as applied to the practice of optometry.

  • Demonstrate the skills to provide age-appropriate care to the clients of the clinic.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principals of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to interpret information relative to the patients age related needs.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
  • Pushing and pulling objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Frequent wrist, hand, and finger dexterity to perform fine motor function.
  • Position requires light to moderate work with 25 lb. maximum weight to lift and carry.
  • Full range of body motion requires twisting body, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, listening, talking, and/or hearing, and seeing.
  • Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
  Working Conditions
  • Non-Ionizing Radiation (microwaves)
  • Hazardous Exposure (chemical [E.G. Latex] and infectious)
Work Schedule
  • You will generally be scheduled to work each day Monday through Friday, with starting times each day varying between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and ending time between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., as required to meet the operational needs of the company. There will be occasional Saturdays as needed.

You will need to travel to other clinic locations as needed for cross coverage support.

Our MissionThe mission of Unicare is to be a community health care organization that treats everyone with dignity, respect and cultural sensitivity to help create an environment in which all can prosper.