Ophthalmic Technician Salary: Median Pay, Job Outlook & Influencing Factors

Per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022 data):

• Median Annual Wage: $39,860
• 10th Percentile: <$28,000
• 90th Percentile: >$60,000

Work Settings

• Ophthalmology clinics & private practices
• Hospitals & outpatient surgery centers
• Optometry offices (some roles)
• Academic medical centers

Job Outlook (2021–2031)

14% growth (much faster than average) driven by aging population and increased demand for eye care (cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy).

Salary Influencers

• Certification: COT (Certified Ophthalmic Technician) > COA (Assistant) > non-certified.
• Experience: Senior techs command higher pay.
• Location: Metropolitan areas pay more.
• Employer Type: Hospitals/academic > private practice.
• Subspecialty Skills: Surgical assisting, OCT, visual fields, ultrasound biometry.

Advancement: Lead technician, supervisor, practice manager, or further education (orthoptist, physician assistant).