Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
Assist ophthalmologists by performing ophthalmic clinical functions. May administer eye exams, administer eye medications, and instruct the patient in care and use of corrective lenses.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Ophthalmic Medical Technicians to increase by 21.4% between 2024 and 2034, from 72,500 to 88,000 jobs. Its estimate of 11,800 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($45,570), education (Postsecondary nondegree award), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
72,500
Projected employment (2034)
88,000
Projected change (2024–2034)
21%
Annual openings (projected average)
11,800
Pay & Preparation
$45,570
Postsecondary nondegree award
None
None
Essential Skills
Active Listening (3.62/5) • Speaking (3.25/5) • Writing (3.12/5) • Service Orientation (3.12/5) • Social Perceptiveness (3.12/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.12/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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