1

Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Assistant - NCEENT of Cary

Cary, NC · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

JOB LOCATION NCEENT of Cary - 1010 Tryon Village Drive JOB SUMMARY We are seeking an Ophthalmic Assistant under close supervision assist an Eye Center physician and other technical support personnel ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do ophthalmic technicians make the most money?

Ophthalmic technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized eye care services. Typically, urban areas and states with a strong healthcare industry offer higher compensation, especially for those with advanced certifications or experience working in busy clinics or hospitals.

Is an ophthalmic assistant a good career?

An ophthalmic assistant is a valuable healthcare professional who supports ophthalmologists by performing patient exams, assisting with procedures, and managing office tasks. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and a chance to work in a specialized medical field, making it a viable career choice for those interested in eye care and healthcare support. Advancement options include becoming a certified ophthalmic technician or pursuing further education in ophthalmology.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ophthalmic Assistant, and why are they important?

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.

How much does a non-certified ophthalmic assistant make?

Non-certified ophthalmic assistants typically earn between $12 and $16 per hour, depending on experience and location. Certification can lead to higher wages and more job opportunities, but entry-level positions may not require certification initially.

What are ophthalmic assistants?

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.

How do you become an ophthalmic assistant?

To become an ophthalmic assistant, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and pursue postsecondary training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Many employers prefer candidates with certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO), which demonstrates proficiency in ophthalmic skills and knowledge.
More about Ophthalmic Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmic jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Ophthalmic jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,529 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Ophthalmic Assistant, Certified - NCEENT of North Durham

Ophthalmic Assistant, Certified - NCEENT of North Durham

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

446th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

Duke Health Integrated Practice

Duke Health Integrated Practice comprises more than 110 primary and specialty outpatient clinics, extending the reach of the Duke Health mission across the state of North Carolina.

$5,000 Commitment Bonus for qualifying candidates!

JOB LOCATION

NCEENT of North Durham - 4102 North Roxboro Street, Durham, NC

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant at our clinic in Durham, NC to assist physicians and other technical support colleagues in performing diagnostic tests necessary for evaluation of patient eye problems. 

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform preliminary screening examinations for physician review including, but not limited to, visual acuity, history taking, tonometry, lensometry, motility, pupil assessment, visual fields, simple color vision tests.
  • Direct the flow of patients; obtain medical and personal data for patient charts; screen patients for conditions; arrange for laboratory and other tests, ophthalmic photography, outpatient studies and patient admissions and surgery as requested by physician
  • Examine the cornea, lens, and anterior chamber of the eye using a slit lamp and note variations from normal. 
  • May administer dilation or anesthetic drops or assist with patient contact lens insertion and removal training.
  • Alleviate patient and family concerns by explaining diagnostic procedures and method of treatment. 
  • Complete stocking and maintenance functions and maintain the physical environment of exam and procedure rooms. 
  • Perform various clerical functions, including assisting with appointments and telephone call screening activities and filing test results, forms, and letters into medical records.
  • Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

JOB ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

  • Work requires an education background generally equivalent to a high school education.
  • Work requires 1 year of directly related experience in Ophthalmology or Optometry; OR, graduation from an accredited Ophthalmic Technician program.
  • Work requires certification as a certified Ophthalmic Assistant by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
  • Must have BLS Certification

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, genderexpression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


What Duke University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Duke University logo

About Duke University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US