How much does a Ophthalmic Technician make?
An Ophthalmic Technician helps eye doctors by taking care of their tools and helping with exams. They earn a good salary. On average, an Ophthalmic Technician makes about $45,381 each year. This is higher than many other jobs that don't need a college degree.
The salary for an Ophthalmic Technician can vary. Some make as little as $30,000 a year. Others earn more than $75,000. Most earn somewhere in the middle. Many factors can affect salary, like experience, location, and the type of workplace. Some earn more based on the number of hours they work or if they work in a busy city.
What are the highest paying cities for a Ophthalmic Technician?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $68,858
In San Francisco, one can find plenty of opportunities in eye care clinics and large medical facilities. With UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente, job seekers can expect a dynamic work environment. These companies offer benefits and growth opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $66,768
Working in Washington, DC, means being close to top-tier medical institutions. Jobs here are often with organizations like MedStar Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs. This location provides access to a variety of patients and specialties.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $66,201
San Jose offers a mix of private practices and larger clinics. Companies like Silicon Valley Community Health Center and Kaiser Permanente provide diverse experiences. Job seekers can expect a focus on technology and innovation in eye care.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $65,825
New Haven provides a cozy yet professional setting for eye care roles. Yale New Haven Hospital and other local clinics offer many opportunities. Job seekers can enjoy a close-knit community and top-notch medical resources.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $63,312
In Boston, job seekers will find a rich environment with prestigious institutions like Mass Eye and Ear. The city offers numerous opportunities for professional development and networking within the medical field.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $60,932
Los Angeles has many eye care clinics and large healthcare providers. Companies such as Kaiser Permanente and Cedars-Sinai offer varied experiences. Job seekers can enjoy a vibrant city with diverse patient populations.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $60,244
San Diego is known for its sunny weather and excellent healthcare facilities. Scripps Health and UC San Diego Health provide many opportunities. Job seekers can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle with a rewarding career.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $60,140
Seattle offers a mix of innovative tech and excellent healthcare. With organizations like Providence and UW Medicine, job seekers can expect a collaborative work environment. The city's culture supports both professional growth and work-life balance.
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Peoria, IL
Average Salary: $56,558
Peoria provides a supportive community with access to great medical facilities. OSF HealthCare and UnityPoint Health offer stable job opportunities. Job seekers can enjoy a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $55,062
Rochester is home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. Job seekers can expect top-tier training and professional growth. This city offers a supportive environment for anyone looking to advance their career in eye care.
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What are the best companies a Ophthalmic Technician can work for?

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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $87,986
UCLA Health offers one of the highest salaries for Ophthalmic Technicians. Working at UCLA Health, you can expect to perform various diagnostic tests and assist ophthalmologists. The company operates multiple locations in Southern California.
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Scripps Health
Average Salary: $76,395
Scripps Health provides competitive pay for Ophthalmic Technicians. Job duties include helping with eye exams and patient care. Scripps operates several facilities in San Diego County.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $74,592
Kaiser Permanente is known for its comprehensive benefits and attractive salaries for Ophthalmic Technicians. You will conduct tests and provide patient education. Kaiser serves members across multiple states in the U.S.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $63,579
At NYU Langone Health, Ophthalmic Technicians work closely with doctors to diagnose and treat eye conditions. The company operates in New York City and surrounding areas.
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Mount Sinai Health System
Average Salary: $62,759
Mount Sinai Health System offers a good salary and benefits for Ophthalmic Technicians. You'll assist in eye care and patient management. The company has locations throughout New York City.
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Children's Hospital Colorado
Average Salary: $61,712
Children's Hospital Colorado provides a supportive environment for Ophthalmic Technicians. You will help young patients with their eye care needs. The hospital is located in Aurora, Colorado.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $61,389
Northwell Health offers a stable salary and great benefits for Ophthalmic Technicians. Duties include assisting ophthalmologists and ensuring patient comfort. The company operates in New York.
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61st Street Service Corporation
Average Salary: $59,420
61st Street Service Corporation provides a fair salary for Ophthalmic Technicians. You will work alongside eye care specialists in various locations.
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Mayo Clinic
Average Salary: $56,934
Mayo Clinic offers a competitive salary and extensive benefits for Ophthalmic Technicians. You will work in a research-focused environment. Mayo Clinic has locations in Minnesota, Arizona, and Florida.
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Family Health Centers of San Diego
Average Salary: $56,462
Family Health Centers of San Diego provides a fair salary for Ophthalmic Technicians. You will support eye care services in various clinics throughout San Diego.
How to earn more as a Ophthalmic Technician?
Becoming an Ophthalmic Technician can lead to a rewarding career with great earning potential. To maximize earnings, consider the following factors that can influence your salary:
Start by gaining specialized training and certifications. Ophthalmic Technicians with advanced certifications often earn higher wages. For example, board certification can set you apart. This can mean taking additional courses or exams. These additional qualifications can lead to higher paying jobs.
- Experience: Gain more experience in the field. Working for several years and building a strong portfolio of skills can lead to higher pay.
- Location: Work in areas where demand for Ophthalmic Technicians is high. Urban areas or regions with many eye clinics may offer higher salaries.
- Type of Employer: Consider working for private practices, hospitals, or research institutions. These settings can offer different salary levels.
- Specialization: Develop expertise in areas like pediatric optometry or retinal imaging. Specializations can command higher pay.
- Networking: Build connections within the industry. Networking can open doors to higher-paying positions and job opportunities.



