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Explore rewarding careers in the eye care industry. From dispensing eyewear to diagnosing conditions, find the path that matches your goals and interests.
Compare education requirements, salary ranges, and career outlook at a glance
| Career | Salary Range | Certification |
|---|---|---|
Optician | $38,000 - $58,000 | ABO |
Contact Lens Technician | $35,000 - $52,000 | NCLE |
Ophthalmic Assistant | $35,000 - $50,000 | IJCAHPO |
Paraoptometric | $38,000 - $55,000 | AOA |
Paraoptometric Assistant | $30,000 - $42,000 | AOA |
Optometrist | $115,000 - $175,000 | State |
Explore each career path in depth, including responsibilities, exam requirements, and growth opportunities
Licensed Dispensing Optician
Opticians help fit eyeglasses and contact lenses following prescriptions from optometrists and ophthalmologists. They interpret prescriptions, recommend frames, and adjust finished eyewear.
Certified Contact Lens Specialist
Contact lens technicians specialize in fitting and dispensing contact lenses. They work closely with eye care professionals to ensure proper lens fit and patient education.
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)
Ophthalmic assistants work in ophthalmology offices, performing diagnostic testing and assisting doctors with patient care. The COA is the entry-level certification from IJCAHPO. From there you can advance to COT (Certified Ophthalmic Technician) and then COMT (Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist), taking on surgical assisting, advanced imaging, and supervisory responsibilities as you move up.
Certified Paraoptometric (CPO)
Paraoptometrics are the advanced-level support staff in optometry offices. They handle preliminary testing, contact lens procedures, ophthalmic optics, and clinical responsibilities that go beyond assistant-level work. The CPO builds on the CPOA certification.
Certified Paraoptometric Assistant (CPOA)
The CPOA is the entry-level certification for people starting their career in an optometry practice. Paraoptometric assistants handle preliminary patient testing, office administration, and basic clinical tasks. It is the first step toward a CPO certification.
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
Optometrists are primary eye care providers who examine eyes for vision and health problems. They prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and medications for certain eye conditions.
$115,000 - $175,000
8+ years total
10% (faster than average)
NBEO - National Board of Examiners in Optometry
~600 across 3 parts
Multiple days