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How Much Does an Optometric Tech Make? The national average salary for an Optometric Technician is $33,865 in United States.
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Introduction
An optometric technician is a professional who works alongside an optometrist to provide comprehensive eye care. These technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks, including conducting vision tests, measuring patients’ eyeglass prescription, and helping patients select the right eyewear. In addition, optometric technicians may also be responsible for maintaining the optometrist’s schedule and handling customer service inquiries.
The average optometric technician salary in the United States is $33,500 per year. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and other factors. For example, optometric technicians who work in metropolitan areas such as New York City or Los Angeles tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in smaller towns or rural areas. In addition, optometric technicians with more experience or specialized training may also earn higher salaries.
What Does an Optometric Tech Do?
An optometric technician is a professional who helps an optometrist provide eye care services to patients. They perform a variety of tasks, such as measuring patients’ eyes, preparing them for eye exams, and helping them choose the right eyeglasses or contact lenses. Optometric technicians typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most states require them to be licensed.
How Much Does an Optometric Tech Make?
The median pay for an optometric technician is $16.14 per hour, or $33,610 per year, as of May 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means that half of all techs earn more than this, while the other half earn less. The pay can vary depending on experience, employer, location, and other factors.
Salary
An optometric tech’s salary depends on many factors, including experience, location, and employer. Most optometric techs make between $10 and $15 per hour, with the median salary coming in at $12.50 per hour. The top 10% of earners make more than $18 per hour, while the bottom 10% make less than $9 per hour.
Bonuses
In addition to their regular pay, optometric techs may also receive bonuses. The amount of the bonus depends on the employer, but it is typically a percentage of the optometric tech’s salary. For example, an optometric tech who makes $50,000 per year could receive a $1,500 bonus.
Benefits
An optometric technician, also known as an ophthalmic medical technician or an optometric assistant, works with patients to test and measure their vision. They also help patients select the right eyeglasses or contact lenses. Most optometric technicians work in private practices, but some may find employment in hospitals or other healthcare facilities.
The majority of optometric technicians have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education or certification. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer programs in ophthalmic medical technology, which can take up to two years to complete. Some students may choose to earn a four-year degree in ophthalmic science before beginning their careers.
Optometric technicians typically work full time, although some may work evenings or weekends to accommodate patient schedules. Those who work in hospitals or other 24-hour facilities may have to work overnight shifts. The job can be physically demanding, as technicians may have to lift or move heavy equipment. They also must be able to stand for long periods of time.
In addition to a competitive salary, optometric technicians often receive benefits such as health insurance and paid vacation days. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees who wish to further their education.
Conclusion
While an optometric tech’s salary varies depending on education, experience, employer, and location, the average salary for an optometric tech in the United States is $33,280 per year.
