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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Prism Vision Group

Ophthalmic Assistant

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18 - $34.68/hr

Compensation Range: $18.00-$34.68/hr (Dependent on Experience) The Ophthalmic Assistant conducts measurements and tests that provide the Physician with the information needed to arrive at a diagnosis ...

Prism Vision Group

Ophthalmic Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

$18 - $34.68/hr

Compensation Range: $18-$34.68/hr (Dependent on Experience) The Ophthalmic Assistant conducts measurements and tests that provide the Physician with the information needed to arrive at a diagnosis ...

Riverside

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$19.70 - $25.63/hr

Overview The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a core certification at the entry level.The COA greets the patient and initiates patient evaluation, documenting the chief complaint, history of ...

Riverside

$19.70 - $25.63/hr

Overview The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a core certification at the entry level.The COA greets the patient and initiates patient evaluation, documenting the chief complaint, history of ...

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$19.70 - $25.63/hr

Overview The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a core certification at the entry level.The COA greets the patient and initiates patient evaluation, documenting the chief complaint, history of ...

Prism Vision Group

Lead Ophthalmic Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

$21.68 - $45.09/hr

The Lead Ophthalmic Assistant plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient workflow and upholding clinical standards. ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Lead and coordinate the activities of the team ...

Prism Vision Group

Lead Ophthalmic Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

$21.68 - $45.09/hr

The Lead Ophthalmic Assistant plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient workflow and upholding clinical standards. ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Lead and coordinate the activities of the team ...

US Eye

GEC - Ophthalmic Assistant

Chesapeake, VA

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

OPHTHALMIC ASSISTANT About US EYE: US Eye, is a physician-led, patient-centric network of eye care practices committed to providing exceptional patient service through premium technology and ...

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All JobsOphthalmic JobsOphthalmic Assistant JobsOphthalmic Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Virginia is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.16 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Ophthalmic jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:

Ophthalmic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,335 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Ophthalmic Assistant

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

$19.70 - $25.63/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Williamsburg, Virginia

Hiring Range

$19.70 - $25.63/Hourly Actual pay is determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, education, credentials, skills, internal equity, and business needs.
Overview
The Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a core certification at the entry level.The COA greets the patient and initiates patient evaluation, documenting the chief complaint, history of present illness, review of systems, and all pertinent ocular findings accurately and in accordance with compliance guidelines; performs and records pertinent clinical measures to include visual acuities, slit lamp exam, refractometry, lensometry and all other patient services as requested by the physician including specialty tests such as color vision screening, stereopsis, and dry eye testing. The COA assists with fitting contact lenses and instruct patients in the care and insertion of contact lenses The COA assists with minor surgical procedures and laser treatments. The COA assists with maintenance of clinical examination equipment to include cleaning and inspects surgical instruments. The COA facilitates patient education through brochures and videos. The COA prepares prescription refills for the physician to review and sign. The COA is also responsible for preparing referral and dictation letters, returning calls to patients and pharmacies with medical questions.
What you will do
  • Performs and records pertinent clinical measures to include Visual Acuities, Refractometry, Application Tonometry, Keratometry, Slit Lamp Exams, Visual Fields, and OCT. Performs and teaches Insert and Removal Procedures for Contact Lens Patients. Performs IOL for cataract surgery patients per physician orders. Reviews all IOL requirements and protocols to ensure proper documentation. Accompanies the physician to surgery and prepares surgery charts and post operative bags.
  • Identifies the patients reason for office visit and assess the patients immediate needs to ensure the patient is seen in a timely manner. Records pertinent medical, allergic, ophthalmic and family histories to include current prescriptions, glasses and contact lenses.
  • Demonstrates positive interpersonal relations in dealing with patients and their families or caregivers to project a favorable image of the office and facilitate quality patient care.
  • Communicates and documents essential information to physicians and team members. Prepares referral follow up letters and dictations for referring physicians for the physicians review and signature.
  • Facilitates patient education through videos and brochures. Prepares prescription refills for the physician's review and signature. Reviews and answers patient's voicemails and returns calls to patients and pharmacies in a timely manner.

Qualifications
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred)
  • Program Graduate, International Council of Accreditation (ICA) accredited training program at the Clinical Assistant level. (Required) or
  • Program Graduate, International Council of Accreditation (ICA) accredited training program at the Non-Clinical Assistant level, including distance learning programs. (Required) or
  • Program Graduate, Completed an approved independent study course. Approved study courses include the JCAHPO Career Advancement Tool (JCAT) or the AAO Ophthalmic Medical Assisting course. (Required)

Experience
  • 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office (Preferred)

Licenses and Certifications
  • Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) Upon Hire(Required)

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.

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