Top-paying states for ophthalmic techs

Many ophthalmologists would not be able to run their practices to the best of its ability without their technicians. From administering eye exams and medication, to patient interaction and performing clinical functions, ophthalmic techs are a necessity in the industry.

But where can techs find the best pay for their duties?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage for an ophthalmic tech is $36,520.

The top states with the most ophthalmic techs are Texas, California, Florida, New York, and North Carolina, the BLS reported.

However, none of these states are among the top paying locations for ophthalmic techs.

Read on to find out which states the BLS says are the highest paying locations for ophthalmic techs.

Annual wages for each state were calculated in May 2014 by multiplying the hourly mean wage by a year-round, full-time hours figure of 2,080 hours. The estimates do not include self-employed workers.

#5 Massachusetts

Employment: 1,230

Employment per thousand jobs: .37

Location quotient: 1.37

Hourly mean wage: $19.80

Annual mean wage: $41,180

#4 Washington

Employment: 1,060

Employment per thousand jobs: .36

Location quotient: 1.35

Hourly mean wage: $20.06

Annual mean wage: $41,720

#3 Minnesota

Employment: 700

Employment per thousand jobs: .26

Location quotient: .96

Hourly mean wage: $20.22

Annual mean wage: $42,050

#2 Hawaii

Employment: 300

Employment per thousand jobs: .50

Location quotient: 1.84

Hourly mean wage: $20.46

Annual mean wage: $42,560

#1 Alaska

Hourly mean wage: $23.02

Annual mean wage: $47,870

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