Career Profiles and Job Descriptions of Optometric Assistant

One of the non-conventional careers in the lower rung of the career graphs, the job of Optometric Assistant offers quite substantial opportunities for career aspirants. Even with the high school level education it could be possible to earn in the range of $12,000 to $30,000 per annum. And the employment outlook is also quite significant.

Nature of Work

Nature of works of the Optometric assistants is as follows.

They perform the routine tasks in the optometrist’s offices.
With their help the optometrists can devote more time to patient care which requires specialized training and education.
Optometric assistants usually do the clerical jobs like book keeping as well as scheduling appointments.
They also help the optometrists in examination of the eyes.
How They Assist Optometrists

Job of Optometrist is to examine the eye of the client for vision, color blindness, as well as eye pressure. On completion of the test the Optometrist will prescribe the necessary eyeglasses for the patient. Assistant help in putting drops in the eyes and or organize the waiting patients by arranging for their sittings and order of testing. In addition; they will explain eye exercises to the patients and also tell them how to use the contact lenses. In some places these assistants help people choose the frames for the glasses. When eyeglasses are ready for use, they adjust them making the eyeglass a proper fit.

Laboratory Assistants

Some of the Optometrist assistants work in the laboratories that fill out prescriptions relating to eyeglasses given to the patients.

On the other hand most of the assistants work in private offices.
There are some who work in the health clinics.
Assistants work in public as well as private hospitals, especially the eye hospitals.
Since most general hospitals also have optical sections, many assistants are also engaged there.
Companies manufacturing optical instruments are another source of job for the Optometrist assistants.
Education and Training

Following education and training is required for pursuing the career of Optometrist assistant.

High school diploma or equivalent.
On the job training.
Proficiency in handling delicate tools.
Employment opportunities in the career are excellent with requirements growing all around the country. Average earnings in the job are $12000-$30,000.