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Medical Assistant Externship Jobs in Ridgefield, WA

Medical Assistant 2 (on-call)

Portland, OR · On-site

$25.64 - $28.30/hr

Must have completed a Medical Assisting program with an externship or 2 years of experience in a medical office setting as a Medical Assistant within the last 5 years. * Must be certified with one of ...

Medical Assistant 2 (on-call)

Portland, OR · On-site

$25.64 - $28.30/hr

Must have completed a Medical Assisting program with an externship or 2 years of experience in a medical office setting as a Medical Assistant within the last 5 years. * Must be certified with one of ...

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Medical Assistant Externship information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do medical assistant externship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical assistant externship in Ridgefield, WA is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Medical Assistant Externship?

A Medical Assistant Externship is a supervised, hands-on training experience that allows students to apply their classroom learning in a real healthcare setting. During the externship, students work alongside experienced medical professionals, performing tasks such as taking vital signs, assisting with patient exams, and handling administrative duties. This experience helps students gain practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for entry-level positions as Medical Assistants. Externships are typically unpaid and are a required component of most medical assistant training programs.

Do you get paid for MA externships?

Medical Assistant externships are typically unpaid training experiences designed to provide hands-on skills and clinical exposure. However, some programs may offer stipends or hourly pay, so it varies by organization and location. It's important to confirm the specific externship details before applying.

What are some common challenges faced during a Medical Assistant Externship, and how can I overcome them?

During a Medical Assistant Externship, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, balancing hands-on tasks with learning new procedures, and building confidence when interacting with patients and healthcare professionals. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate openly with your supervisor or mentor, and proactively seek feedback. Remember that externships are designed for learning, so don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification when needed—this will help you gain the most from your experience and prepare you for a successful career.

How to find an MA externship?

To find a Medical Assistant externship, search healthcare facilities, clinics, or hospitals that offer externship programs, often listed on their websites or through career centers. You can also contact local medical offices or community colleges that partner with healthcare providers to provide hands-on training opportunities for aspiring medical assistants.

What is the difference between Medical Assistant Externship vs Medical Assistant?

AspectMedical Assistant ExternshipMedical Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires completion of a training program; certification may be optionalRequires completion of a training program; certification (CMA or RMA) often preferred
Work EnvironmentHands-on training in clinical and administrative settings, often supervisedFull-time clinical and administrative duties in healthcare facilities
UsageEducational experience to gain practical skills before employmentProfessional role performing patient care and administrative tasks

The Medical Assistant Externship provides students with practical, supervised experience to prepare for a career as a Medical Assistant. In contrast, a Medical Assistant is a trained professional who performs clinical and administrative duties independently. The externship is a temporary training period, while the Medical Assistant role is a full-time position in healthcare settings.

Can you get hired from an externship?

A medical assistant externship provides hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can lead to full-time employment, especially if the externship is with the same employer. However, hiring depends on the employer’s needs, performance during the externship, and available positions; it is not guaranteed. Demonstrating strong skills and professionalism can improve chances of being hired after the externship.

How does a medical assistant externship work?

A medical assistant externship is a supervised, hands-on training program that allows students to gain practical experience in healthcare settings such as clinics or hospitals. During the externship, participants perform clinical and administrative tasks, develop skills in patient care, and often work under the guidance of licensed professionals, helping them prepare for certification and employment. The program typically lasts several weeks to months and may be a requirement for certification or graduation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Medical Assistant Extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Assistant Extern, you need foundational knowledge of clinical procedures, basic patient care, and administrative tasks, typically gained through a medical assisting program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, medical terminology, and standard office equipment is frequently required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and professionalism help you excel in supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring effective patient care and a smooth workflow during your externship experience.
What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Medical Assistant Externship jobs? Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Medical Assistant Externship job openings:
Medical Assistant

$25.33 - $34.26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
$2,500 hiring bonus for full time positions*
Bonus Disclaimer: Current OHSU, Adventist and Hillsboro Medical Center employees are not eligible.
Oregon Health & Science University is Oregon's #1 hospital. If you are interested in an opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference, then being a Medical Assistant at OHSU is the right job for you. We want employees who are committed to delivering the best patient care. We will support you with cost saving benefits, and two annual raises, great PTO, and full medical/dental/vision insurance covered 100% for full time employees.
Current Full Time Medical Assistant openings (Hiring Bonus Eligible):
  • Cardiology Clinic - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Community Hematology Oncology - Southeast - 1 position
  • Comprehensive Pain Center - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Dermatology Surgery - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Family Medicine - South Waterfront - 3 positions
  • General Pediatrics - Marquam Hill - 2 positions
  • Medicine Specialty Clinic - Marquam Hill - 1 position
  • Neurological Surgery - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Orthopedics and Rehabilitation - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Pediatric Hematology Oncology - Marquam Hill - 4 positions
  • Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery - Marquam Hill - 1 position
  • Pre-Operative Medicine Clinic - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Spine Center - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Student Health and Wellness Center - Marquam Hill - 1 position
  • Urology - Southeast - 2 positions
  • Urology - South Waterfront - 1 position
  • Westside Timeshare - Beaverton - 1 position

Part Time, Relief, Temporary or Flex Positions (Not bonus eligible):
  • Diabetes/Endocrinology Clinic - Marquam Hill - 0.6 FTE (24 hrs per week)

Function/Duties of Position
As a Medical Assistant, you will provide a full range of support as part of the medical care team. Your primary duties in this position are: rooming, collecting patient vital signs, point of care testing, documentation in the electronic medical record (EHR), maintaining clinic flow, stocking exam rooms, assisting with procedures and treatments, and communicating with efficiency and diplomacy.
Medical Assistant positions are represented by the AFSCME union. Incentives include:
  • Salary Range: $25.33 - $34.26 per hour
  • Ambulatory Float Pool employees receive an additional $1/hr. shift differential
  • Free Tri-Met and C-Tran Pass, plus free rides on the Aerial Tram and Portland Street Car
  • Experienced certified MAs have an opportunity to promote into a Medical Assistant 2 classification if all criteria is met after one year at OHSU
  • *Bonus Disclaimer: current OHSU, Adventist and Hillsboro Medical Center employees are not eligible

Benefits:
  • Two raises per year - One at anniversary date and one across the board annual increase
  • Vacation- up to 200 hours per year depending on length of service
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance- Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents, and $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
  • Flexible spending accounts & Health savings account options
  • Retirement Plans: Oregon PERS Plan or employer matching plans like 403b,401a, and 457b
  • Sick Leave- up to 96 hours per year
  • 8 paid holidays per year
  • Substantial Tri-met and C-Tran discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Public Student Loan Forgiveness eligibility
  • Onsite Childcare Service & Gym
  • Health & Wellness Program
  • Career Center

Required Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Current BLS certification at hire from the American Heart Association (AHA). New hires will be enrolled and required to complete during orientation.
  • One of the following three:
    1. Completion of a nationally recognized accredited medical assistant training program, including a practicum (externship) of at least 160 hours, OR
    2. Successful completion of a formal medical services training program of the United States Armed Forces, OR
    3. Current Oregon Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license (basic or advance) and an active national EMT registration with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT.)
  • For those completing medical assistant training or formal military medical services training as referenced above in #1 and #2, the following is also required (Those qualifying under the EMT qualification are exempt from this requirement.)
    • Currently, these include:
      • The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), awarding the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
      • The American Medical Technologists (AMT), awarding the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
      • The National Center for Competency Testing, awarding the National Certified MA (NCMA)
      • The National Health Career Association, awarding the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
      • The American Registry of Medical Assistants, awarding the Registered Medical Assistant (R.M.A.) - for those qualifying through #2 above only.
    • Medical Assistant (MA) certification received from a nationally recognized and accredited certifying body, upon hire or by the completion of the 6 month probationary period or internal job change evaluation period, as appropriate. Must be maintained for the duration of employment.
  • Must have relevant work history or have completed EMT or MA schooling within the past 5 years
  • Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodation

Additional Details
Bonus Disclaimer: current OHSU, Adventist and Hillsboro Medical Center employees are not eligible
Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887