Ophthalmic Medical Technologists
Ophthalmic medical technologists assist ophthalmologists in clinical and surgical eye care settings. They perform diagnostic tests, take specialized eye photographs, administer medications, prepare surgical instruments, and supervise other ophthalmic staff. Most work in ophthalmology offices, hospitals, or surgical centers.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against ophthalmic medical technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Ophthalmic medical technologists conduct eye exams using specialized equipment, capture detailed photographs of eye structures, and document patient information. They prepare surgical instruments and assist during procedures using sterile techniques. Throughout the day, they may administer eye drops and other medications, answer patient questions, train junior staff, and maintain equipment and clinical records.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIC. 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'd do well in this role if you enjoy practical problem-solving and understanding how things work—both the eye itself and the technical equipment used to examine it. You prefer hands-on work with concrete, measurable results and take satisfaction in supporting clinical diagnosis and patient care.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $63,300 | $80,520 | $84,900 | 90 |
| Delaware | $53,290 | $78,650 | $99,120 | 110 |
| Washington | $51,290 | $62,090 | $83,080 | 3,870 |
| Maine | $46,390 | $61,490 | $66,010 | 550 |
| Massachusetts | $48,290 | $60,500 | $75,290 | 3,550 |
| California | $51,080 | $60,390 | $78,330 | 26,540 |
| Oregon | $50,590 | $60,390 | $75,500 | 1,720 |
| New York | $48,950 | $60,320 | $78,230 | 11,910 |
| Hawaii | $48,810 | $59,900 | $66,420 | 1,000 |
| Minnesota | $47,890 | $59,540 | $73,800 | 2,030 |
| Vermont | $47,730 | $59,470 | $74,150 | 430 |
| Colorado | $48,110 | $59,430 | $71,300 | 2,470 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) — International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
- Registered Electroencephalographic (EEG) Technologist (REEGT) — ABRET Neurodiagnostic Credentialing & Accreditation
- Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) — Board of Polysomnographic Technologists
- Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) — National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology
- Electroencephalographic Technologists (R. EEG T.) — AABC Commissioning Group
- Registered Nerve Conduction Study Technologist (R.) — ABRET Neurodiagnostic Credentialing & Accreditation
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 technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2099.05 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.