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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

$17 - $22.75/hr

SUMMARY An Ophthalmic Technician is a valuable asset to an Ophthalmologist as they assist in providing excellent patient care to the patients during their visit. This employee is able to handle a ...

Ophthalmic Technician

Muskegon, MI ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

SUMMARY An Ophthalmic Technician is a valuable asset to an Ophthalmologist as they assist in providing excellent patient care to the patients during their visit. This employee is able to handle a ...

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Ophthalmic Assistant information

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How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Michigan is $17.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmic assistant?

Ophthalmic assistants are healthcare professionals who support ophthalmologists in providing eye care to patients. Their duties typically include taking patient histories, performing basic eye tests, assisting with procedures, maintaining equipment, and educating patients about eye care. They play a vital role in ensuring that eye clinics and practices run efficiently, acting as a bridge between patients and the ophthalmologist. Ophthalmic assistants may also help with administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing patient records.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ophthalmic assistant?

To thrive as an Ophthalmic Assistant, you need knowledge of ocular anatomy, basic eye care procedures, and typically a high school diploma or completion of a certified ophthalmic assistant program. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments, visual acuity testing tools, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is important. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to provide patient education set top candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate patient assessments, efficient clinic operations, and a positive patient experience in eye care settings.

What are some common challenges ophthalmic assistants face when working in a fast-paced clinic setting?

Ophthalmic Assistants in busy clinics often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patient appointments simultaneously, quickly adapting to changes in the daily schedule, and maintaining attention to detail during vision tests and screenings. Balancing efficient patient flow with thorough documentation and compassionate care requires strong organizational and communication skills. Additionally, staying up-to-date with new ophthalmic technologies and procedures can be demanding but is essential for providing high-quality patient support.

What is the difference between Ophthalmic Assistant vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectOphthalmic AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CredentialsCertificate or diploma, often on-the-job trainingMore specialized training, often certification
Work EnvironmentOptometry and ophthalmology clinics, hospitalsSame as Ophthalmic Assistant, with more technical tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesPatient history, basic eye tests, assisting with examsPerforming diagnostic tests, operating equipment, assisting with procedures

Ophthalmic Assistants and Ophthalmic Technicians work closely in eye care settings, but Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform more technical tasks. Both roles support ophthalmologists and optometrists in providing patient care, with the Technician role often requiring certification and offering a broader scope of diagnostic responsibilities.

How much do ophthalmic assistants make in the US?

Ophthalmic assistants in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $36,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The role often requires knowledge of ophthalmic procedures and the use of diagnostic tools.

Is being an ophthalmic assistant worth it?

Ophthalmic assistants perform clinical tasks such as patient history taking, eye measurements, and assisting with eye exams, often working in ophthalmology clinics or optometry offices. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and a chance to work closely with healthcare professionals, making it a viable career choice for those interested in eye care. Salary and job growth are generally favorable for entry-level healthcare support roles.

What do you need to be an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers prefer postsecondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with medical terminology and ophthalmic equipment are also important. Certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) can enhance job prospects.
More about Ophthalmic Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmic jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Ophthalmic jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,339 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Ophthalmic Scribe/Tech

Associated Retinal Consultants

Royal Oak, MI โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Use ophthalmic techniques to perform preliminary work-up of patients and assist physicians with examinations and treatments.

  • Prepare patients and treatment rooms, obtain patient medical and ophthalmic history, and perform visual acuity and intraocular pressure measurements.

  • Assist with patient procedures, record vital signs, perform OCT, and ensure accurate documentation and coding of procedures and diagnoses.


Job description

Company: Associated Retinal Consultants
Job Title: Ophthalmic Scribe / Technician
Department:ย Ophthalmology
Reports To:ย Clinic Supervisor
Location: Royal Oak, MI

SUMMARY

Ophthalmic Scribe / Technicians use ophthalmic techniques to perform preliminary work-up of patients in a clinic setting, scribe for Physicians and may also directly assist Physician(s) with examinations and treatment of patients.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Functions as Scribe, which requires knowledge and understanding of retina-specific ophthalmology terminology.
  • Prepare patients and rooms for treatments and minor procedures as directed by the Physician.
  • Obtain patient's past and current medical and ophthalmic history, including information regarding medications, allergies and family history of eye problems.
  • Identify any potential patient concerns and bring these issues to the attention of the Office Coordinator or Physician, as appropriate.
  • Measure and record both distance and near visual acuity and pinhole acuity; perform preliminary refraction using objective equipment.
  • Measure intraocular pressures by applanation tonometry, pneumatonometry and/or use of tonopen, check pupillary response to light and pupillary defects (will be trained)
  • Perform basic visual field testing and patient education as directed by Physician.
  • Prepare patients for treatments and minor procedures; measure and record vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate) as required.
  • Successfully complete and maintain Ophthalmic Scribe Certification (OSC). Upon certification, complete appropriate computerized orderentry under the direction of the Physician, per regulatory and professional guidelines.
  • Instill eye drops as directed by the Physician.ย 
  • Assist in the application of dressings, shields and eye patches.
  • Basic understanding of examination and procedure codes (ICD-9 codes) when inputting into the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system.
  • Ensure that accurate procedure coding/charges for all procedures/drugs for all patients and correct diagnosis codes are used.
  • Keep examination, treatment, laser and any other assigned rooms cleaned and stocked with supplies, and keep drug count up to date.
  • Provide consistent, excellent customer service.
  • May consent patient for treatment and procedures.
  • Perform OCT on patients with speed and accuracy and assist Physician with treatments when needed.
  • Assist with patient transfers as necessary.
  • Travel to other locations as assigned.
  • Responsibilities may be dependent on specific location and not required of all employees in that position.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned, which may include assisting in other departments within Associated Retinal Consultants and at other locations.
  • Duties assigned may include clerical functions such as filing, key boarding, scheduling patients, cleaning, stocking or other tasks as needed.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Skilled in ophthalmic terminology, ability to type words accurately with speed and knowledge of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system.
  • Strong attention to detail and expert keyboard (Scribe) skills.
  • Ability to understand and correctly spell medical terminology and numbers as percentages; analytical and problem solving skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with others (teamwork) and provide superior customer service to patients.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCEย 

  • Minimum Required: High School Diploma or equivalent

LICENSES AND CREDENTIALSย 

  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) certification is preferred
  • Ophthalmic Scribe Certification (OSC) certification is preferred

SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGYย 

  • Requires proficient keyboarding skills, use of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and image management system.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook
  • Utilize instant messaging systems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • This role requires a variety ofย physicalย activities to effectively perform essential job functions. The position involves frequent walking (75%), sitting (50%), and standing (50%), with regular bending, stooping, and reaching (25-50%). Employees must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull items up to 25 lbs. Strong fine motor skills and full use of hands are essential, as the role demands constant grasping, writing/typing, and use of technology. Visual and auditory acuity-including color, depth, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus-is requiredย 100% of the time. Occasional driving or climbing may also be necessary.ย 

If you need assistance with this application, please contact (636) 227-2600. Please do not contact the office directly - only resumes submitted through this website will be considered.

EyeCare Partners is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

NOTE:ย  Job descriptions are intended to be accurate reflections of those principal job elements essential for making fair pay decisions about jobs. Nothing in this job description restricts management right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.ย ย