How much does a Ophthalmic Assistant make?
An Ophthalmic Assistant supports eye care professionals and plays a vital role in providing quality patient care. This role offers a range of responsibilities, from conducting preliminary tests to preparing patients for exams. Understanding the salary range can help you make informed career decisions. The average yearly salary for an Ophthalmic Assistant is $46,101. This figure can vary based on several factors.
Several factors can influence an Ophthalmic Assistant's salary. These include experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. For instance, those with more experience and specialized skills may earn more. Working in urban areas or with large healthcare providers can also lead to higher earnings. The salary range stretches from $30,000 to $71,230 per year, showing the potential for growth and advancement in this career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Ophthalmic Assistant?

-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $65,168
In Sacramento, working as an ophthalmic assistant offers a rewarding experience in a thriving healthcare environment. Eye Care Associates and the UC Davis Eye Center provide excellent opportunities to enhance skills and serve the community. The city’s growing healthcare sector ensures steady demand for skilled professionals.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $62,708
In Chicago, an ophthalmic assistant plays a vital role in top-tier facilities like the Northwestern Eye Center and the Illinois Eye Institute. The city’s diverse population means a wide range of eye care needs, providing a dynamic work environment. Competitive salaries and benefits make it an attractive choice for those in the field.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $61,822
Minneapolis offers a supportive environment for ophthalmic assistants, with notable employers like Minnesota Eye Consultants and the University of Minnesota Eye Center. The city’s commitment to healthcare excellence ensures ample opportunities for professional growth. A strong healthcare network provides a stable career path.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $59,957
In San Diego, ophthalmic assistants work in cutting-edge facilities, such as the Shiley Eye Institute at UC San Diego Health. The city’s reputation for medical innovation provides a stimulating environment. With a diverse population, the demand for eye care services is high, offering plentiful job opportunities.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $52,486
Boston, known for its medical expertise, hosts premier institutions like Mass Eye and Ear and the Massachusetts General Hospital. Working here means collaborating with leading professionals in ophthalmology. The city’s rich history in healthcare provides a prestigious setting for a fulfilling career.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Boston, MA
-
Madison, WI
Average Salary: $52,075
Madison is home to top eye care providers, including the Wisconsin Eye Surgery Center and UW Health’s Department of Ophthalmology. The city’s supportive community and high standards for healthcare make it an ideal place to work. Opportunities for growth and development are plentiful.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Madison, WI
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $51,054
In Baltimore, ophthalmic assistants support leading facilities such as the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins and the Maryland Eye Center. The city’s commitment to medical excellence provides a stimulating work environment. The diverse patient base ensures a varied and engaging experience.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $51,036
Seattle offers a vibrant work environment for ophthalmic assistants, with institutions like the Seattle Eye Clinic and the University of Washington Eye Institute. The city’s tech-savvy and health-conscious population drives demand for eye care services. Opportunities for advancement and professional development are abundant.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $49,646
In Spokane, ophthalmic assistants work in a welcoming environment, with the Spokane Eye Clinic and Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center being prominent employers. The city’s strong community focus provides a supportive atmosphere. Ample opportunities for career growth and stability are available.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $49,414
Denver’s thriving healthcare scene provides excellent opportunities for ophthalmic assistants, with employers like the Denver Eye Center and Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute. The city’s vibrant culture and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive place to live and work. High demand for eye care ensures a steady flow of job opportunities.
Find Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Denver, CO
What are the best companies a Ophthalmic Assistant can work for?

-
Sutter Health
Average Salary: $75,758
Sutter Health offers excellent opportunities for Ophthalmic Assistants in Northern California. They work in well-equipped clinics providing comprehensive eye care. Locations include Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area.
-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $68,030
Kaiser Permanente provides stable jobs for Ophthalmic Assistants across multiple states. They emphasize teamwork and offer a variety of locations, including California, Colorado, and Washington.
-
Northwestern Medicine
Average Salary: $61,598
At Northwestern Medicine, Ophthalmic Assistants play a key role in patient care. They serve areas in Illinois, including Chicago, and benefit from advanced medical facilities.
-
Park Nicollet Health Services
Average Salary: $59,039
Park Nicollet Health Services offers rewarding positions for Ophthalmic Assistants in Minnesota. They focus on patient-centered care with locations in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
-
Atrium Health
Average Salary: $52,163
Atrium Health provides diverse opportunities for Ophthalmic Assistants in North Carolina and South Carolina. They are part of a large network and offer comprehensive eye care services.
-
Optum
Average Salary: $51,444
Optum is a leading healthcare organization with multiple positions for Ophthalmic Assistants across the United States. They focus on innovative care and have locations in many major cities.
-
Trinity Health
Average Salary: $51,355
Trinity Health offers Ophthalmic Assistant roles in multiple states, including Michigan, Ohio, and Connecticut. They emphasize compassionate care and professional development.
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear
Average Salary: $50,474
Massachusetts Eye and Ear is a top specialty hospital. Ophthalmic Assistants here work in Boston, providing cutting-edge eye care services to patients.
-
Allina Health
Average Salary: $50,351
Allina Health offers positions for Ophthalmic Assistants in Minnesota. They are committed to quality care and have multiple clinics across the state.
-
Unifeye Vision Partners
Average Salary: $49,591
Unifeye Vision Partners provides opportunities for Ophthalmic Assistants in various locations. They focus on eye care and patient satisfaction, with clinics across the country.
How to earn more as a Ophthalmic Assistant?
Working as an Ophthalmic Assistant offers a rewarding career in healthcare. This role requires strong technical skills and a keen attention to detail. To enhance earning potential, consider these important factors:
Here are some key ways to increase earnings:
- Gain specialized certifications in areas like ophthalmic photography or low vision rehabilitation.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas, such as large cities or specialized clinics.
- Build a solid reputation through excellent patient care and professional conduct.
- Pursue opportunities in private practices where compensation often exceeds that of public clinics.
- Network within the industry to uncover higher-paying job openings.
Investing in additional training and certifications can open doors to better-paying roles. A specialized skill set can make an Ophthalmic Assistant more valuable to employers. Working in areas with high demand for eye care services can also lead to higher salaries. Establishing a strong professional reputation can lead to more opportunities and higher pay.



