Certified Optometric Assistant salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Certified Optometric Assistant in South Africa is approximately 84,049 ZAR (4,213 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Certified Optometric Assistant do?

A certified optometric assistant is a healthcare professional who assists optometrists in providing eye care services to patients. They work in optometry clinics, hospitals, and private practices, performing various administrative and clinical tasks. Administrative responsibilities include scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling billing and insurance claims. Clinical duties involve conducting preliminary eye exams, measuring visual acuity, and administering diagnostic tests. They may also assist with contact lens fittings, instruct patients on proper eyewear usage and care, and provide support during eye surgeries. A certified optometric assistant must have a strong understanding of eye anatomy, optics, and common eye conditions. They should possess excellent communication skills and be able to interact with patients in a compassionate and professional manner. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask are essential for this role.

Skills: certified optometric assistant, eye care, healthcare, optometry, clinical, administrative
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Certified Optometric Assistant make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Certified Optometric Assistant a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Certified Optometric Assistant is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Certified Optometric Assistant might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Certified Optometric Assistant?

High salary for Certified Optometric Assistant would be somewhere between 92,454 ZAR and 121,871 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Certified Optometric Assistant in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 84,049 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,004 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,616 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 40 ZAR per hour
By working as Certified Optometric Assistant a person can save up to 80 USD per month or 959 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Certified Optometric Assistant

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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