How much does a Ophthalmic Technician make?
An Ophthalmic Technician plays an important role in the healthcare industry. They help doctors examine patients' eyes and provide necessary care. The salary for this job can vary based on experience and location. On average, Ophthalmic Technicians make about $45,461 per year.
Ophthalmic Technicians can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience and where they work. Some earn as little as $30,000 per year, while others can make up to $75,000 or more. Here is a look at some common salary ranges:
- 25th percentile: Around $30,000
- 50th percentile: Around $42,000
- 75th percentile: Around $54,000
- 90th percentile: Around $63,000
- 95th percentile: Around $70,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Ophthalmic Technician?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $68,981
San Francisco offers many opportunities for eye care professionals. The city's tech-savvy population ensures demand for specialized eye care services. With renowned institutions like UCSF, there are ample chances for growth.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $65,825
New Haven provides a balanced work environment for eye care technicians. Yale-New Haven Hospital brings many job opportunities. The community here values skilled professionals, ensuring a supportive work atmosphere.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $65,177
San Jose is an excellent place for eye care technicians. The city's tech industry means many people need eye care. Major companies like VSP offer numerous job openings. Working here provides a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $63,327
Washington, DC, is ideal for eye care technicians. The city's diverse population ensures a steady demand for eye care services. Top institutions like The George Washington University Hospital offer excellent career growth opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $62,303
Boston offers a rich environment for eye care professionals. Harvard Medical School and other top institutions mean many job opportunities. The city's commitment to healthcare excellence ensures a supportive and challenging work setting.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $59,732
Seattle provides a great opportunity for eye care technicians. The city's tech-focused population ensures a steady demand for eye care services. Major employers like Kaiser Permanente offer many job openings and a friendly work environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $59,334
San Diego offers a vibrant work environment for eye care professionals. The city's diverse population ensures a steady need for eye care services. With renowned institutions like UC San Diego Health, there are ample opportunities for growth.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $58,336
Los Angeles provides many opportunities for eye care technicians. The city's large population ensures a steady demand for eye care services. Top employers like USC offer excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic work environment.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $56,640
Rochester offers a supportive work environment for eye care professionals. The Mayo Clinic is a top employer, offering many job opportunities. The community here values skilled professionals, ensuring a rewarding work experience.
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Peoria, IL
Average Salary: $56,558
Peoria provides a balanced work environment for eye care technicians. The city's growing population ensures a steady demand for eye care services. With top institutions like OSF Healthcare, there are many opportunities for growth in a friendly setting.
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What are the best companies a Ophthalmic Technician can work for?

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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $84,886
UCLA Health offers excellent opportunities for Ophthalmic Technicians. They work in many locations, including the renowned UCLA Health System. Technicians assist in eye exams, taking measurements, and sometimes running diagnostic tests.
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Scripps Health
Average Salary: $76,071
Scripps Health provides top-notch positions for Ophthalmic Technicians. They operate several clinics and hospitals in San Diego. Technicians here support ophthalmologists, preparing patients and conducting essential tests.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $74,997
Kaiser Permanente hires Ophthalmic Technicians for its many locations across the country. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Technicians assist doctors in a variety of eye care procedures and ensure patients receive the best care.
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Mount Sinai Health System
Average Salary: $62,962
At Mount Sinai Health System, Ophthalmic Technicians play a key role. They work in some of the best medical facilities in New York City. Technicians here perform diagnostic tests, prepare patients for exams, and help maintain excellent eye care.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $62,088
Advocate Aurora Health provides numerous jobs for Ophthalmic Technicians. They have locations in Illinois and Wisconsin. Technicians here assist in exams, perform tests, and ensure patients have the best eye care experience.
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Children's Hospital Colorado
Average Salary: $61,712
Children's Hospital Colorado offers rewarding positions for Ophthalmic Technicians. They have several locations in Colorado. Technicians here help with pediatric eye care, making a difference in young patients' lives.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $61,243
NYU Langone Health provides excellent opportunities for Ophthalmic Technicians. They operate in New York City and other locations. Technicians here assist ophthalmologists, ensuring top-quality eye care for patients.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $60,593
Northwell Health offers good jobs for Ophthalmic Technicians. They have many facilities in New York. Technicians here assist in exams, take patient measurements, and help ensure excellent eye care.
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61st Street Service Corporation
Average Salary: $59,577
61st Street Service Corporation provides various opportunities for Ophthalmic Technicians. They operate in several locations, including New York City. Technicians here support eye care exams and tests, ensuring patients get the care they need.
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Mayo Clinic
Average Salary: $57,017
Mayo Clinic offers prestigious positions for Ophthalmic Technicians. They have locations in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona. Technicians here assist in eye exams, perform diagnostic tests, and ensure high-quality patient care.
How to earn more as a Ophthalmic Technician?
Earning more as an Ophthalmic Technician means focusing on skills and experiences that make you a valuable asset to your employer. Here are five factors that can help increase your earnings.
First, gaining specialized certifications can boost your salary. Certifications from recognized bodies, such as the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), show you have extra skills. These skills can make you more valuable to potential employers, and often lead to higher pay.
- Certifications: Get certified through organizations like JCAHPO.
- Experience: More years of experience often lead to higher pay.
- Location: Working in areas with a high demand for technicians can increase your salary.
- Education: Higher levels of education, like an associate or bachelor’s degree, can lead to better-paying jobs.
- Specialization: Focus on areas such as pediatric or surgical assisting to command higher wages.
Second, more experience generally means higher pay. Working in different settings, such as private practices, hospitals, or clinics, can broaden your skills and lead to better-paying opportunities. Location also plays a role; technicians in urban areas or places with a shortage of professionals may earn more. Additionally, higher levels of education can open doors to more lucrative positions. Finally, specializing in a specific area within ophthalmic technology can make you more attractive to employers looking for specialized skills.



