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Coa Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OSF HealthCare

Ophthalmic Assistant

Peoria, IL · On-site

$21.93 - $25.80/hr

The Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) generates important preliminary information to be used by the ophthalmologist; reviews patient status and performs medical tests. The COA assists with the documentation ...

Riverside

Ophthalmic Assistant

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$19.70 - $25.63/hr

The COA greets the patient and initiates patient evaluation, documenting the chief complaint ... Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology ...

Emory Healthcare

Ophthalmic Assistant, COA

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$29.33 - $34.86/hr

JCAHPO Ophthalmic Certification (COA,COT,COMT) required. * (BLS) Certification in accordance with the American Heart Association required. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: (Medium): 20-50 lbs.; 0-33% of the ...

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How much do coa ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for coa ophthalmic assistant in the United States is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a COA Ophthalmic Assistant?

COA Ophthalmic Assistants are certified healthcare professionals who assist ophthalmologists in providing eye care. 'COA' stands for Certified Ophthalmic Assistant, a credential awarded by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). These assistants perform tasks such as taking patient histories, conducting vision tests, administering eye medications, and assisting during eye exams and procedures. They play a crucial role in supporting ophthalmologists and ensuring patients receive quality eye care.

What does a COA Ophthalmic Assistant do?

As a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), your daily responsibilities often include preparing patients for eye exams, taking detailed medical histories, performing basic vision tests, and assisting the ophthalmologist with diagnostic procedures. You may also be responsible for administering eye drops, educating patients on treatment plans, and maintaining exam room equipment. Collaboration with other clinical staff such as optometrists, nurses, and administrative personnel is common, ensuring a smooth workflow and high-quality patient care.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a COA Ophthalmic Assistant?

To thrive as a COA Ophthalmic Assistant, you need a solid understanding of ocular anatomy, eye examination procedures, and completion of the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) credential. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments, electronic medical records (EMR), and diagnostic imaging systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a compassionate demeanor are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate patient assessments, efficient clinic operations, and high-quality patient care in ophthalmology settings.

What is the difference between Coa Ophthalmic Assistant vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectCoa Ophthalmic AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CertificationsCertified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)Often holds COA or similar certification
Work EnvironmentOptometry and ophthalmology clinics, outpatient settingsSpecialized eye clinics, hospitals, outpatient facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient prep, basic eye tests, equipment setupPerform diagnostic tests, measure visual acuity, assist with procedures

Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in outpatient eye care settings. Ophthalmic Technicians often perform more advanced diagnostic tasks, while Coa Ophthalmic Assistants focus on patient prep and basic testing. The roles are complementary within eye care teams, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Coa Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Coa Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Coa Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Coa Ophthalmic Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Coa Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

For Coa Ophthalmic Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Coa Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,693 per year, or $20 per hour.

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

Virginia Mason Medical Center

Seattle, WA • On-site

$29.38 - $43.70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), you will provide comprehensive clinical and clerical support to Ophthalmologists/Optometrists, ensuring efficient practice operations. You will directly contribute to patient diagnosis through advanced ophthalmic testing and meticulous patient work-ups.

Every day you will manage patient greetings, histories, and vision testing, skillfully performing end-point refractions, pressure measurements, and a variety of advanced tests. You will also administer medications, educate patients, triage phone calls, and schedule appointments.

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate advanced proficiency in ophthalmic testing and patient support. You will exhibit exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a compassionate, patient-focused approach in a dynamic clinical setting.

Job Requirements

Required

  • JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) required.
  • One year working in an optometry or ophthalmology practice required.

Working knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, and basic eye care. Understanding of ophthalmic testing and the use of ophthalmic instruments and equipment. Basic skills in operating a computer and office equipment.


Strong interpersonal and customer relations skills; strong communication skills and organizational skills required. Ability to make chart documentation with entry into electronic medical record.

Where You'll Work

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health brings together two award winning health systems in Washington state - CHI Franciscan and Virginia Mason. As one integrated health system with the most patient access points in western Washington our team includes 18,000 staff and nearly 5,000 employed physicians and affiliated providers. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health you will find the safest and highest quality of care provided by our expert, compassionate medical care team at 11 hospitals and nearly 300 sites throughout the greater Puget Sound region.

Just as Virginia Mason is dedicated to improving the lives of our patients and our community, we are equally dedicated to your professional and personal success. With a wide range of perks that includes a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, and the opportunity to live in one of the most livable cities in the nation, you will find that an opportunity with Team Medicine is one worth taking. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Qualifications:

Required

  • JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) required.
  • One year working in an optometry or ophthalmology practice required.

Working knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, and basic eye care. Understanding of ophthalmic testing and the use of ophthalmic instruments and equipment. Basic skills in operating a computer and office equipment.


Strong interpersonal and customer relations skills; strong communication skills and organizational skills required. Ability to make chart documentation with entry into electronic medical record.

Employment Type: Full Time

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