Optical Assistant: Description

Distinguishing characteristics of work

UniOptical is seeking a compassionate, patient-focused, and detail-oriented Optical Assistant to support daily optical operations and provide exceptional patient experience. Our patients are primarily older adults who value personalized attention, clear communication, and genuine care. The Optical Assistant serves as a trusted resource, helping patients navigate eyewear options, insurance benefits, and vision care needs with empathy, patience, and professionalism. This role requires a commitment to treating every patient with dignity, respect, and understanding.

Example of Duties

Customer Service & Patient Care

• Welcome patients warmly and create a comfortable, supportive environment.
• Demonstrate empathy, patience, and understanding when assisting seniors and patients with vision, hearing, mobility, or cognitive challenges.
• Take time to explain eyewear options, insurance benefits, and care instructions in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.
• Listen actively to patient concerns and address questions with compassion and professionalism.
• Build trusting relationships with patients and caregivers through personalized service and follow-up.
• Ensure each patient feels valued, respected, and confident throughout their optical experience.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisors

Optical Dispensing

• Assist patients in selecting frames and lenses that meet their visual, lifestyle, and budget needs.
• Accurately take measurements such as pupillary distance (PD), segment height, and frame fitting measurements.
• Educate patients on lens materials, coatings, and specialty products.
• Ensure proper fitting, adjustment, and dispensing of eyewear.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software to prepare reports and measure performance.

Administrative Duties

• Schedule appointments and maintain patient records.
• Verify insurance eligibility and explain benefits to patients.
• Process orders, payments, and documentation accurately.
• Maintain confidentiality of patient information in compliance with company policies.

Inventory & Store Operations

• Assist with inventory management, receiving, merchandising, and stocking optical products.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and attractive showroom environment.
• Monitor frame inventory and report shortages or product issues.
• Support visual merchandising initiatives and promotional displays.

Technical Support

• Perform basic eyewear repairs and adjustments.
• Coordinate with laboratories to track and expedite eyewear orders.
• Conduct final inspections to ensure eyewear meets quality standards before patient delivery.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in optical retail, healthcare, customer service, or sales preferred.
• Knowledge of eyewear products, lens options, and frame styling is an asset.
• Familiarity with vision insurance plans and billing procedures preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency and experience with practice management software preferred.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

Desirable knowledge, abilities and skills

• Exceptional customer service skills with a genuine passion for helping others.
• Demonstrated empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence when working with older adults.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with patients, family members, and caregivers.
• Strong listening skills and the ability to understand and respond to patient concerns.
• Respectful, compassionate, and service-oriented approach to patient care.
• Ability to provide reassurance and support to patients who may be anxious or unfamiliar with the eyewear selection process.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Adherence to all organizational and departmental compliance and regulatory policies, procedures, and workflows (i.e., timely submission of time sheets and expense reports). Follow all policies and procedures.
• Pro-active and good listener

Physical demands

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move light merchandise and optical supplies.
• Manual dexterity is necessary for eyewear adjustments and repairs.

To apply for the Optician position, please fill out the following form: