How Much Does an Optometric Technician Make?

Optometric Technicians' salaries can be influenced by various factors, notably experience, education, specialization, and location. Experience plays a crucial role in determining an Optometric Technician's pay. As professionals gain expertise over the years, they become more proficient in their work, thus commanding higher wages. Likewise, education impacts the salary scale. A technician with a higher degree or relevant certifications often earns more than a less-qualified counterpart. Having specialized skills can also give a technician the upper hand in salary negotiations. Specializations like pediatric optometry or ocular disease can increase a technician's value, and thus lead to better remuneration.

Location, too, significantly impacts an Optometric Technician's salary. Areas with a higher cost of living or a greater need for optometric services often offer higher salaries. For instance, densely populated urban areas or regions with a higher older population might pay more due to the increased demand for eye care services. Furthermore, being employed in a larger, well-established practice or a hospital setting might lead to a higher income compared to a smaller private practice. Thus, considering these factors and making informed choices can greatly influence an Optometric Technician's earning potential.

Optometric Technician Estimated Salary

High
$27.64/hour/hr
National Average
$22.87/hour/hr
Low
$17.49/hour/hr

Top Salary Locations for Optometric Technician Jobs

Top Salary Locations for Optometric Technician Jobs
25%+
15% to 24%
5% to 14%
Industry Average
-5% to -14%
-15% to -24%
-25% or more

Salary for Optometric Technician Jobs Nationwide

Estimated salary range based on data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and iHireOptometry research efforts.
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How Do You Negotiate Salary as an Optometric Technician?

Getting the salary you desire as an Optometric Technician isn't as daunting as it might seem! Start by understanding your worth in the optometry field. The iHireOptometry Salary Research Tool is an excellent resource for this. It provides a comprehensive outlook of the average salaries for your position in various locations. You can leverage this information to make an informed decision and attain a reasonable understanding of what to ask for during a salary negotiation.

If you're already employed as an Optometric Technician and seeking a raise, the key is to showcase your value and contributions to the organization. Take note of instances where you've gone beyond normal duties, improved processes, or positively impacted the patient experience. Then, present these accomplishments to your employer as solid proof of your merit. For new hires, negotiate the salary during the job offer stage. Remember to convey your enthusiasm for the role and the unique skills you bring, but also express your salary expectations based on your research using the iHireOptometry tool. Negotiation is an art, and with clarity, confidence, and the right tools, you can secure the salary you deserve.

Average Work Experience
Here's a breakdown of the number of years' experience offered by Optometric Technicians
1-2 years
25.9%
2-4 years
22.2%
Less than 1 year
18.5%
None
11.1%
10+ years
7.4%
4-6 years
7.4%
6-8 years
7.4%