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Entry Level Ophthalmology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sutter Health

Ophthalmic Assistant I

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$24.85 - $32.30/hr

SC - Sansum Clinic Position Overview: Entry level position that performs all of the pre-tests ... Ability to efficiently operate Ophthalmology equipment. * Ability to establish priorities and ...

Sutter Health

Ophthalmic Assistant I

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$24.85 - $32.30/hr

SC - Sansum Clinic Position Overview: Entry level position that performs all of the pre-tests ... Ability to efficiently operate Ophthalmology equipment. * Ability to establish priorities and ...

St. Luke's

Entry Level Technician

Tarpon Springs, FL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Entry-Level Technician: Position Overview: Looking for a rewarding career with paid training ... As an Ophthalmic Technician, you will be joining a team of fun, energetic individuals some of whom ...

Addison Group

Entry Level Clinic Assistant

Austin, TX · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

About Our Client Our client is a multi-location specialty eye care organization providing advanced ophthalmology and retina services throughout the Austin area. This is an entry-level role with full ...

Addison Group

Entry Level Clinic Assistant

Austin, TX · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

About Our Client Our client is a multi-location specialty eye care organization providing advanced ophthalmology and retina services throughout the Austin area. This is an entry-level role with full ...

Addison Group

Entry Level Clinic Assistant

Austin, TX

$18 - $21/hr

About Our Client Our client is a multi-location specialty eye care organization providing advanced ophthalmology and retina services throughout the Austin area. This is an entry-level role with full ...

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Entry Level Ophthalmology information

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How much do entry level ophthalmology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level ophthalmology in the United States is $26.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to find a job as an ophthalmologist?

Finding a job as an ophthalmologist can be competitive, especially in high-demand areas, but opportunities are generally available due to the need for eye care specialists. Strong clinical skills, board certification, and networking can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Ophthalmology professional, and why are they important?

To succeed in an entry-level ophthalmology role, you typically need a background in health sciences or completion of an ophthalmic technician/assistant program, along with basic knowledge of eye anatomy and common ocular conditions. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments (like slit lamps, tonometers, and autorefractors), electronic medical records (EMRs), and possibly COA (Certified Ophthalmic Assistant) certification is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and the ability to work well with patients and clinical staff are valuable soft skills. These competencies are crucial for supporting accurate diagnostics, ensuring patient safety, and assisting ophthalmologists effectively in a clinical setting.

What opportunities for mentorship and learning can entry-level professionals expect in an ophthalmology practice?

Entry-level ophthalmology professionals often benefit from strong mentorship, as practices typically pair new team members with experienced ophthalmologists or senior staff for hands-on training. You can expect to observe procedures, assist with patient exams, and gradually take on more responsibilities as your skills grow. Many practices also encourage participation in continuing education and offer regular feedback to help you advance. Collaboration with optometrists, nurses, and administrative staff is common, fostering a team-based learning environment.

What is an entry level ophthalmology job?

An entry level ophthalmology job typically refers to positions for recent graduates or those new to the field of eye care, such as ophthalmic assistants, technicians, or residents starting their medical training in ophthalmology. These roles involve supporting ophthalmologists with patient care, conducting basic eye exams, administering tests, and learning to use specialized equipment. Entry level positions are crucial for gaining hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in eye health and vision care, often serving as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in ophthalmology.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ophthalmology vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectEntry Level OphthalmologyOphthalmic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, outpatient settingsEye clinics, hospitals, private practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting ophthalmologists, basic patient carePerforming diagnostic tests, patient prep
Industry UsageCommon entry point for ophthalmology careersSpecialized role supporting ophthalmologists

Entry Level Ophthalmology roles typically involve assisting ophthalmologists with patient care and basic tasks, often requiring minimal formal certification. Ophthalmic Technicians usually perform diagnostic tests and patient assessments, often with certification. Both roles are found in similar healthcare settings and serve as entry points into the ophthalmology field, but Ophthalmic Technicians tend to have more specialized responsibilities.

Do you need experience to be an ophthalmic assistant?

Entry-level ophthalmic assistant positions typically do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is often provided. However, having a background in healthcare, customer service, or relevant certifications can be beneficial for employment and advancement.

Will ophthalmology be replaced by AI?

Ophthalmology as a medical field involves complex patient interactions and hands-on procedures that are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI. AI tools can assist with diagnostics and image analysis, but ophthalmologists will continue to play a vital role in patient care, treatment planning, and performing surgeries. Entry-level ophthalmology roles may incorporate AI technologies as part of their workflow, but human expertise remains essential.

Which is harder, optometry or ophthalmology?

Ophthalmology is generally considered more challenging than optometry because it requires completing medical school, a residency, and obtaining a medical license, along with training in surgical procedures. Optometry involves earning a Doctor of Optometry degree and focuses on vision care and correction, with less extensive training. Both careers require strong knowledge of eye health, but ophthalmology demands a higher level of medical training and specialization.
More about Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Ophthalmology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmology jobs? The most popular types of Ophthalmology jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs are:
Entry Level Ophthalmology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ophthalmology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,594 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Ophthalmic Assistant I

Ophthalmic Assistant I

Sutter Health

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$24.85 - $32.30/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform pre-tests and refractions with training and competency.

  • Assist physicians with exams and procedures.

  • Take vital signs, prepare patients for exams, and perform ophthalmology testing.

Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 316 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!
Organization:
SC - Sansum Clinic
Position Overview:
Entry level position that performs all of the pre-tests, refraction's, with training and competency, assist physicians with exams and/or procedures. Standing rooming and blood pressures.
Job Description:
EDUCATION:
  • HS Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)

CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE:
  • COA-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant within 18 months
  • OR COT-Certified Ophthalmic Technician within 18 months
  • BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AS TYPICALLY ACQUIRED IN:
  • 1 year recent relevant experience

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
  • Skill in operating a computer, and general office skills.
  • Problem identification and problem solving.
  • The ability to understand and carry out assigned orders by physician or supervisors.
  • Must have customer service skills with patients, physicians, co-workers and all supervisor/management positions.
  • Ability to make simple mathematical computations, work independently, effectively prioritize tasks, exercise initiative, judgment, and decision making, work effectively as team member, establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, employees and the public.
  • Knowledge, understanding, and ability to operate visual testing equipment.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy.
  • Ability to efficiently operate Ophthalmology equipment.
  • Ability to establish priorities and coordinate work activities paying particular attention to detail.
  • Verbal and written communication skills for regular contact with physicians, patients and staff.
  • Competency in basic Ophthalmic Assisting skills such as chart documentation, taking vital signs, preparing patients for exam, performing ophthalmology testing.
  • Knowledge of the most commonly used terms (ICD-10) in Ophthalmology

Job Shift:
Days
Schedule:
Full Time
Shift Hours:
8
Days of the Week:
Monday - Friday
Weekend Requirements:
None
Benefits:
Yes
Unions:
No
Position Status:
Non-Exempt
Weekly Hours:
40
Employee Status:
Regular
Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.
Pay Range is $24.85 to $32.30 / hour
The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

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