Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
Ophthalmic medical technicians assist ophthalmologists in eye care settings by performing clinical functions. They administer eye exams, apply eye medications, and teach patients how to use and care for corrective lenses. Most work in ophthalmology offices, hospitals, or eye clinics.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against ophthalmic medical technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves greeting patients, recording medical histories, and operating diagnostic equipment to measure vision and eye pressure. Technicians instruct patients on lens care, administer prescribed medications, and prepare examination rooms. They document test results and assist the ophthalmologist during procedures. Tasks vary based on the clinic's patient load and the types of eye conditions being treated.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you're interested in understanding how things work and solving practical problems—the investigative and realistic sides of career interests. You're comfortable working directly with patients, detail-oriented about clinical procedures, and prefer hands-on work in structured healthcare settings.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $50,510 | $63,080 | $78,070 | 720 |
| Hawaii | $48,510 | $58,240 | $59,850 | 190 |
| Wisconsin | $47,750 | $56,420 | $61,620 | 1,260 |
| California | $44,810 | $54,490 | $74,950 | 2,500 |
| District of Columbia | $37,760 | $50,790 | $64,390 | — |
| Vermont | $46,070 | $50,090 | $62,370 | 150 |
| Maryland | $45,240 | $50,070 | $61,940 | 1,300 |
| Oregon | $46,800 | $50,020 | $64,510 | 1,060 |
| Alaska | $46,790 | $49,970 | $65,410 | 90 |
| Massachusetts | $46,580 | $49,750 | $64,570 | 2,330 |
| New Hampshire | $41,130 | $49,110 | $57,720 | 300 |
| New Jersey | $43,770 | $49,050 | $57,800 | 4,150 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) — International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
- Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) — International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
- Certified Paraoptometric Technician (CPOT) — Commission on Paraoptometric Certification
- Registered Ophthalmic Ultrasound Biometrist (ROUB) — International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against ophthalmic medical technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2057.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.