Ophthalmic Assistant

About the Role

Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) plays an important role in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in outpatient ophthalmology clinics and procedural settings. This position combines hands-on clinical care, diagnostic testing, and patient interaction to support ophthalmologists and the broader care team in evaluating and treating a variety of eye conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform ophthalmic testing, vision assessments, and diagnostic imaging to support the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of eye conditions.
• Obtain and document patient histories, visual acuities, vital signs, and other relevant clinical measurements.
• Administer ophthalmic medications and diagnostic eye drops as directed and in accordance with established clinical protocols.
• Assist ophthalmologists with office-based procedures, including laser treatments, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures.
• Prepare patients, examination rooms, and procedural areas for examinations and treatments, ensuring a safe and efficient clinical environment.
• Maintain ophthalmic equipment by performing routine cleaning, calibration, and maintenance in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and infection prevention standards.
• Monitor and organize medical supplies and ophthalmic equipment to ensure availability for daily clinical operations.
• Handle, label, store, and transport specimens, instruments, and medications in accordance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Support clinic operations through administrative responsibilities, including patient call triage, electronic in-basket management, and other assigned duties.
• Provide clinical and operational support across ophthalmology clinics and locations as needed.
• Communicate compassionately and effectively with patients, families, clinicians, and other members of the care team to promote a positive patient experience.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of patient care, test results, and other clinical information in the electronic medical record.
• Follow hospital policies, clinical protocols, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards to maintain patient safety and quality of care.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) credential through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required.
• 0–1 year of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic required, or completion of an International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program.
• Knowledge of ophthalmic terminology, ocular anatomy and physiology, common eye conditions, ophthalmic procedures, and medications.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
• Ability to support patients across a range of ages and physical and cognitive abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced clinical setting.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary care team.
• Sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills within the scope of the role.
• Proficiency with computers, electronic health records, and Microsoft Office applications.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Licenses and Credentials: Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) credential through JCAHPO.
• Experience: 0–1 year of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic OR completion of an ICA Assistant-level training program.

Work Location: 800 Huntington Avenue

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

Employee Type: Regular

Work Shift: Day

Pay Range: $17.71 - $24.94/Hourly