How much does a Ophthalmic Assistant make?
Ophthalmic Assistants play an important role in eye care. Their work helps doctors and patients. This job offers a stable income with potential for growth. The average yearly salary for an Ophthalmic Assistant stands at $45,278, with many earning between $37,505 and $52,516 each year. This range shows that experience and skill level can impact earnings.
The salary distribution shows that a significant number of Ophthalmic Assistants fall in the middle range. About 24.97% earn between $41,258 and $45,011. Those with more experience or specialized skills can earn even more. For example, the top 10% of earners make over $60,022 a year. This data encourages job seekers to focus on gaining experience and developing skills to boost their earnings.
What are the highest paying cities for a Ophthalmic Assistant?

-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $65,376
In Sacramento, professionals find work in top-rated eye clinics and medical centers. Companies like California Eye Associates provide a dynamic environment for those eager to support patient care and vision testing.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $62,827
Chicago offers a bustling atmosphere for those in eye care. Notable employers include the Illinois Eye Institute, where specialists and assistants collaborate to deliver exceptional patient care.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $62,556
Minneapolis is home to several prominent clinics, including Minnesota Eye Consultants. Job seekers can enjoy a variety of opportunities to grow their skills in a supportive setting.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $61,236
Los Angeles provides numerous job openings in high-end eye care facilities. Eye care professionals here work alongside experienced doctors to assist in diagnosing and treating various eye conditions.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $57,591
In San Diego, workers find fulfilling positions in leading clinics like Sharp HealthCare. The city's sunny environment makes for a pleasant work setting.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Madison, WI
Average Salary: $51,807
Madison offers a variety of job opportunities in well-known eye care practices. The University of Wisconsin Hospitals is one place where professionals can gain valuable experience in patient care.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Madison, WI
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $50,806
Seattle provides a thriving job market for eye care assistants. Companies like Pacific Eye Surgeons offer a collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $49,466
Baltimore has many opportunities for those interested in eye care. Workers here find positions in reputable clinics that focus on providing top-notch patient care.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $49,093
In Denver, professionals can find rewarding positions in eye care clinics that value quality care. Rocky Mountain Laser & Vision is a notable employer in the area.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Denver, CO
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $47,642
Boston offers a range of opportunities for eye care assistants. Here, workers can find positions in prestigious institutions that focus on advanced patient care.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Boston, MA
What are the best companies a Ophthalmic Assistant can work for?

-
Sutter Health
Average Salary: $75,248
Sutter Health offers rewarding opportunities for Ophthalmic Assistants across Northern California. With a focus on patient care, they have various locations including Sacramento, San Francisco, and Stockton. Their benefits are competitive, and they offer growth opportunities.
-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $67,668
Kaiser Permanente provides excellent salaries for Ophthalmic Assistants in their facilities across the West Coast. They operate in states like California, Washington, and Colorado. Working here means access to cutting-edge technology and a supportive work environment.
-
Northwestern Medicine
Average Salary: $60,650
Northwestern Medicine, based in Chicago, Illinois, is known for its high standards in patient care. Ophthalmic Assistants here work in state-of-the-art facilities. The company offers robust training programs and career advancement opportunities.
-
Park Nicollet
Average Salary: $59,285
Park Nicollet, serving the Twin Cities in Minnesota, values its Ophthalmic Assistants. They offer a collaborative work environment with extensive support. The company is known for its innovative medical practices and commitment to community health.
-
Optum
Average Salary: $51,898
Optum offers diverse opportunities for Ophthalmic Assistants across the United States. They provide comprehensive benefits and a focus on patient-centered care. Locations include major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Houston.
-
Atrium Health
Average Salary: $51,708
Atrium Health, based in North Carolina, offers competitive salaries for Ophthalmic Assistants. They provide a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development. Locations include Charlotte and surrounding areas.
-
PRISM Vision Group
Average Salary: $49,678
PRISM Vision Group, with locations in New York and New Jersey, offers a vibrant work environment for Ophthalmic Assistants. They focus on patient care and offer a supportive team atmosphere. Growth opportunities are available within the company.
-
COLORADO COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS
Average Salary: $48,847
COLORADO COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS provides a unique opportunity for Ophthalmic Assistants in Colorado. They offer a compassionate work environment with a focus on serving vulnerable populations. Competitive benefits and growth opportunities are available.
-
Unifeye Vision Partners
Average Salary: $47,417
Unifeye Vision Partners, located in the New York area, offers rewarding positions for Ophthalmic Assistants. They focus on innovative eye care and provide a supportive work environment. Opportunities for professional growth are available.
-
Retina Consultants of Minnesota
Average Salary: $45,300
Retina Consultants of Minnesota offers specialized roles for Ophthalmic Assistants. They focus on retinal care and have locations in Minneapolis and surrounding areas. The company offers a collaborative environment with competitive benefits.
How to earn more as a Ophthalmic Assistant?
Working as an Ophthalmic Assistant can be rewarding both personally and professionally. If you seek to earn more in this role, there are several strategies to consider. First, gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying opportunities. Certifications in areas like glaucoma or retina care can make you more valuable. Continuing education shows a commitment to the field and can lead to better job offers and higher salaries.
Experience also plays a significant role in salary increases. Working in various settings, such as private clinics, hospitals, or surgical centers, provides a broad skill set. This versatility can make you a more attractive candidate to employers. Additionally, seeking out positions in areas with higher living costs can lead to higher compensation. Urban centers or regions with a high demand for eye care services often offer better pay. Networking within the industry can also uncover higher-paying jobs and potential salary negotiations. Attending professional conferences and joining related associations can provide access to these opportunities.
Here are some key factors to consider in your journey to earn more as an Ophthalmic Assistant:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain experience in different settings.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas.
- Network within the profession.
- Stay updated with continuing education.



