How to Become a Ophthalmic Medical Technicians in California
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians in California earn a median salary of $47,940/year, which is 9% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.4%. After taxes and rent, a ophthalmic medical technicians takes home approximately $1,871/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a ophthalmic medical technicians can afford in California
Becoming a ophthalmic medical technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many ophthalmic medical technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for ophthalmic medical technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 4,090 ophthalmic medical technicians. The highest concentrations are in Santa Rosa-Petaluma and Vallejo.
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $101K | $48.77/hr | 40 |
| Vallejo | $58K | $27.69/hr | 30 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $55K | $26.55/hr | 540 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $53K | $25.3/hr | 1,200 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $49K | $23.73/hr | 420 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $48K | $23.27/hr | 480 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $47K | $22.61/hr | 60 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $47K | $22.52/hr | 70 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $47K | $22.38/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $46K | $22.15/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $46K | $22.04/hr | 240 |
| Fresno | $45K | $21.75/hr | 100 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $42K | $20.36/hr | 360 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $40K | $19.1/hr | 110 |
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians salary range in California
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a ophthalmic medical technicians make in California?▼
The median ophthalmic medical technicians salary in California is $47,940 per year ($23.05/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $44,080. Salaries range from $36,430 to $82,710.
What are the requirements to become a ophthalmic medical technicians in California?▼
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a ophthalmic medical technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $47,940, a ophthalmic medical technicians in California would take home approximately $3,283/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for ophthalmic medical technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for ophthalmic medical technicians in California are Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($101,440), Vallejo ($57,600), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($55,220). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for ophthalmic medical technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.4%. On a $47,940 salary, this means roughly $1,167/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.