How much does a Optometric Technician make?
Optometric Technicians play a crucial role in eye care. They assist optometrists by taking eye measurements, preparing patients for exams, and more. The job requires a mix of technical skills and a keen eye for detail. This career can offer stability and good pay. On average, Optometric Technicians earn about $36,647 per year. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific job duties.
To give you a clearer picture, here is how salaries break down:
- About 10% of technicians earn less than $28,000.
- Half of technicians earn between $30,000 and $40,000.
- The highest-paid 10% make more than $47,500.
What are the highest paying cities for a Optometric Technician?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $48,760
In Seattle, working with eye care professionals to assist in exams and patient care. Notable companies include Pacific Eye Surgeons and Seattle Retina Associates. Seattle's tech-savvy environment offers unique opportunities for those interested in integrating technology with eye care.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $43,642
Worcester offers a vibrant community for eye care specialists. Work alongside experienced optometrists at places like UMass Memorial Health. The city's commitment to healthcare makes it a great place for career growth in optometry.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $42,226
Minneapolis provides a supportive work environment for eye care technicians. Companies like Minnesota Eye Consultants value the role of technicians. The city's focus on health care and wellness aligns well with the needs of the eye care industry.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $41,663
Chicago offers a dynamic setting for eye care technicians. Working with renowned clinics like Chicago Eye Care, technicians play a crucial role in patient care. The city's diverse population creates a rich environment for learning and professional development.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $40,909
Philadelphia is a great city for those in eye care. Technicians work closely with optometrists at places like Wills Eye Hospital. The city’s rich history in healthcare provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career in eye care.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $40,750
Denver offers a scenic and fulfilling career path for eye care technicians. Working at facilities like Denver Eye Center, technicians enjoy a supportive and innovative work environment. The city’s focus on health and wellness aligns well with the eye care field.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $40,559
San Diego provides a vibrant and sunny work environment for eye care technicians. At places like Kaiser Permanente, technicians play a key role in patient care. The city’s focus on health and outdoor activities makes it an appealing place to work.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $40,500
Anchorage offers a unique setting for eye care professionals. Technicians work with local clinics to provide essential eye care services. The city's focus on health care and community well-being makes it a great place for eye care technicians.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $40,058
Rochester provides a supportive and professional environment for eye care technicians. Working at Mayo Clinic, technicians play a crucial role in patient care. The city’s commitment to healthcare innovation creates a stimulating work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $39,452
Los Angeles offers a dynamic and diverse environment for eye care technicians. Working with renowned clinics, technicians contribute to high-quality eye care. The city’s cultural richness and healthcare focus make it an exciting place to build a career in eye care.
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What are the best companies a Optometric Technician can work for?

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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $60,759
Advocate Aurora Health offers rewarding positions for Optometric Technicians in various locations across Illinois and Wisconsin. These roles focus on patient care and vision testing, with opportunities for professional growth.
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Target Optical
Average Salary: $50,167
Target Optical provides a dynamic environment for Optometric Technicians. They support eye exams and patient care in stores nationwide. The role includes a team-focused approach and competitive benefits.
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LensCrafters
Average Salary: $46,107
At LensCrafters, Optometric Technicians play a key role in assisting with eye exams and customer service. The company operates in many locations, offering a stable and supportive work environment.
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teamvision
Average Salary: $44,861
Teamvision values the contributions of Optometric Technicians. They work in various eye care settings, emphasizing patient care and team collaboration. Locations span across multiple states.
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Colorado Eye Center
Average Salary: $41,909
Colorado Eye Center offers opportunities for Optometric Technicians in several locations within Colorado. These positions focus on patient care and eye health, with a commitment to quality service.
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Maine Optometry
Average Salary: $41,395
Maine Optometry provides a community-focused environment for Optometric Technicians. They support eye exams and patient care in various locations across Maine. The role is part of a dedicated team.
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AEG Vision
Average Salary: $40,331
AEG Vision offers Optometric Technician positions in several states. These roles involve patient care and eye exams, with opportunities for professional development and growth.
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ROSIN EYECARE
Average Salary: $39,551
ROSIN EYECARE supports Optometric Technicians in providing quality eye care. They operate in multiple locations, emphasizing teamwork and patient satisfaction.
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Total Vision
Average Salary: $39,094
Total Vision offers a range of positions for Optometric Technicians. They focus on patient care and eye exams, working in various locations. The role is collaborative and supportive.
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Warby Parker
Average Salary: $38,023
Warby Parker provides a modern and innovative environment for Optometric Technicians. They support eye exams and customer service in stores across the country. The role includes opportunities for learning and advancement.
How to earn more as a Optometric Technician?
Becoming an Optometric Technician offers many opportunities to grow professionally and financially. One way to enhance earning potential involves gaining additional certifications and training. Specializing in areas like contact lenses or pediatric care can make an Optometric Technician more valuable to potential employers. Another key factor is seeking roles in areas with higher living costs, as these positions often come with better salaries. Experience also plays a significant role; the more time spent in the field, the higher the earning potential can become. Networking and building relationships within the industry can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Finally, considering positions in private practices or larger clinics often offers more competitive salaries compared to smaller, independent practices.
Here are a few practical steps an Optometric Technician can take to increase earnings:
- Obtain additional certifications to expand skill set.
- Seek out roles in high-cost living areas for higher pay.
- Gain more experience to become a more valuable employee.
- Build a strong professional network to discover new opportunities.
- Consider working in private practices or larger clinics.



