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Paraoptometric Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kaiser Permanente

Optometric Assistant

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Job Summary: Performs initial work-up and specialized tests for optometry patients. Assists optometrists with clinical tasks as directed by the optometrist. Essential Responsibilities: * Greets ...

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MCHC Health Centers

Optometric Technician

Ukiah, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

Current Certified Paraoptometric, Paraoptometric Assistant or Paraoptometric Technician (CPO) certification preferred Compensation details: 25-31 Hourly Wage PI2226b71c0f63-31181-41096066

MCHC Health Centers

Optometric Technician

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Current Certified Paraoptometric, Paraoptometric Assistant or Paraoptometric Technician (CPO) certification preferred Compensation details: 25-31 Hourly Wage PI2098e538bf99-25405-41096066

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Paraoptometric information

What is a paraoptometric?

Paraoptometrics are trained professionals who assist optometrists in providing eye care services. Their duties often include performing preliminary eye tests, helping with patient intake, managing records, and assisting with eyewear selection and fitting. They play a key supportive role in optometric practices by ensuring that the office runs smoothly and that patients receive efficient care. Many paraoptometrics are certified through organizations such as the American Optometric Association, and their responsibilities can vary based on the size and type of the practice.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a paraoptometric?

To thrive as a Paraoptometric, you need knowledge of eye care procedures, basic medical terminology, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with certification such as CPO (Certified Paraoptometric) often preferred. Familiarity with practice management software, vision testing equipment, and electronic health records is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help provide excellent patient service and support to optometrists. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate patient assessments, efficient clinic operations, and a positive patient experience.

What are some common challenges paraoptometrics face when working in a busy optometry practice?

Paraoptometrics in busy optometry practices often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as pre-testing patients, managing appointment schedules, and assisting with eyewear selection. One common challenge is maintaining accuracy and attention to detail while working quickly to keep up with patient flow. Good communication skills are essential, as paraoptometrics frequently serve as a bridge between patients and optometrists, ensuring optimal patient care. Adapting to new technologies and updated procedures can also be an ongoing part of the role.

What is the difference between Paraoptometric vs Optometric Assistant?

AspectParaoptometricOptometric Assistant
CertificationsOften certified through CPO or COA programsMay have basic training, less likely certified
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with optometrists, handling patient care tasksSupports optometrists with administrative and clinical duties
Job ResponsibilitiesPre-testing, patient history, assisting with examsScheduling, patient prep, equipment setup

Paraoptometric and optometric assistants both support eye care practices, but paraoptometric roles typically require specific certifications and involve more clinical patient care. Optometric assistants often focus on administrative tasks with less formal certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much does a certified paraoptometric make?

Certified paraoptometrists typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certification from organizations like the American Optometric Association can enhance earning potential and job opportunities.

How to become a certified paraoptometric?

To become a certified paraoptometric, candidates must complete a formal education program in optometry or a related field, gain relevant work experience, and pass the Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) exam administered by the American Optometric Association or a similar certifying body. Continuing education is often required to maintain certification and stay current with industry standards.

What states have the most Paraoptometric jobs?

States with the most job openings for Paraoptometric jobs include:

Paraoptometric jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paraoptometric job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Optometric Assistant/ Paraoptometric

Great Lakes Bay

Bay City, MI • On-site

$12.50 - $16/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  1. Patient Preparation: Reviews patient’s past medical/ocular history and prepares charts prior to patient appointments. Reviews referral/consult notes and adds pertinent information into patient’s notes. (10%)
  2. Patient Intake: Obtains patient’s vitals and visual acuity. Gathers patient information including chief complaint and completing a thorough history of present illness. (25%)
  3. Pre-Testing/Patient Care: Performs appropriate pre-testing on patients based on presenting concern. Pre-tests include autorefraction, rebound tonometry, extraocular movements, lensometry, pupillary function, and confrontation visual fields. Other pre-testing elements as directed by provider. Administers diagnostic drops as directed and educates patients on side effects. (35%)
  4. Special Testing: Obtains imaging and performs testing as ordered. This includes macular/nerve OCT, visual fields, and fundus photography. (10%)
  5. Referrals: Places and tracks external referrals for surgical pre-testing and consults. Tracks status of referrals and obtains reports once available. (5%)
  6. Patient Education: Provides limited patient education as directed by optometrist. Assist other support staff in triaging and scheduling concerns. (5%)
  7. Clinical Environment/Equipment: Maintains organization of exam rooms and other clinical areas. Cleans and disinfects instrumentation in accordance of infection control guidelines. Maintains sample cabinet inventory. Orders contact lens trial prescriptions and solutions as needed. (10%)
Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job.
MARGINAL JOB DUTIES
  1. Performs other duties as directed to ensure the efficiency of the vision services department.
JOB SPECIFICATIONS
  1. Education: High school graduate or equivalent.
  2. Licensure: Active BLS certification. Entry level paraoptometric or certified ophthalmic assistant certification preferred.
  3. Experience: One (1) year of experience as optometric assistant, ophthalmic assistant, or paraoptometric preferred.
  4. Skills: Possess basic knowledge and skills appropriate for optometric care. Telephone and computer skills necessary. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Maintains universal precautions. Flexible in accepting work assignments. Self-motivated.
  5. Interpersonal Skills: Ability to seek and utilize supervision appropriately. Ability to communicate with a diverse patient population. Maintain patient confidentiality as defined by HIPPA regulations.
  6. Physical Effort: Must be able to sit, stand, and or walk for an entire workday. Must be able to lift, carry, push, pull, and or twist while holding up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
  7. Hours of Work: Full-time; flexible and varied. Evening hours may be required. Regular and timely attendance required. Telecommuting not an option for this position.
  8. Travel: Not a requirement for this position. If needed, reimbursement for expenses consistent with GLBHC policy.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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