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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

OPHTHALMOLOGY TECH COA

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Physical Conditions: Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 ...

Nursing Assistant

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Nursing Assistant Join AAESC/HRESC as a Nursing Assistant, where you will provide direct support to ... Supportive, team-driven culture within a leading ophthalmic surgery environment * Hands-on clinical ...

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Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.01 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 job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,216 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

OPHTHALMOLOGY TECH COA

UNMHSCHS

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Receive 17% Weekday Nights, 26% Weekend Nights and 15% Weekend Day shift differentials
Compensation Disclaimer
Compensation for this role is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to experience, education, and other business and organizational considerations.
Department: Ophthalmology On Site Clinic
FTE: 1.00
Full Time
Shift: Days
Position Summary:
Provide technical expertise and daily management in ophthalmologic care delivery. Ensure adherence to Hospitals and departmental policies and procedures. Patient care assignment may include neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric age groups.
Detailed responsibilities:
* TREATMENT - Perform routine treatment procedures - ocular motility skills, basic contact lens evaluation, polishing lenses, slit lamp evaluation and over refraction, keratometry, tonometry, color vision testing, visual acuity, field tests, eye drops, dressing and ointment administration, pharmacology, assess vital signs; coordinate lab results, assist minor surgery, assist laser procedures, OCT, and IV eye diagnostic injections
* DOCUMENTATION - Prepare and process patient charts and related information; maintain filing system
* BILLING - Prepare information utilized for payment of UNM Hospitals charges for component billing
* FINANCE - Assist in monitoring unit's fiscal responsibilities
* EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - Ensure equipment is maintained; monitor supply and medicine requisitions
* EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - Assist in care and maintenance of department facilities, equipment and supplies
* PATIENT CARE - Assist in preparation of patient care areas; assist patients in the admission, transfer and discharge process; triage patient care
* PATIENT CARE - Deliver and document patient care; ensure medical orders are carried out; perform chart audits ensuring compliance to applicable standards
* PATIENT EDUCATION - Assist in patient education on ophthalmologic techniques and devices
* DEVELOPMENT - Enhance professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, reading current literature, attending in-services, meetings and workshops
* EYE CARE - Refer patients to appropriate Ophthalmology sub-specialty requiring tertiary eye care or as determined by division guidelines
* TEAMS - Participate in and contribute to cross-functional and interdepartmental teams and exercises
* PATIENT SAFETY 1 - Follow patient safety-related policies, procedures and protocols
* PATIENT SAFETY 2 - Demonstrate proactive approach to patient safety by seeking opportunities to improve patient safety through questioning of current policies and processes
* PATIENT SAFETY 3 - Identify and report/correct environmental conditions and/or situations that may put a patient at undue risk
* PATIENT SAFETY 4 - Report potential or actual patient safety concerns, medical errors and/or near misses in a timely manner
* PATIENT SAFETY 5 - Encourage patients to actively participate in their own care by asking questions and reporting treatment or situations that they don't understand or may "not seem right"
Qualifications
Education:
Essential:
* High School or GED Equivalent
Experience:
Essential:
Nonessential:
Bilingual English, Spanish, Keres, Tewa, Tiwa, Towa, Zuni, or Navajo1 year directly related experience
Credentials:
Essential:
* CPR for Healthcare/BLS Prov or Prof Rescuers w/in 30 days
* Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
Physical Conditions:
Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
Working conditions:
Essential:
* Sig Hazard: Chemicals, Bio Hazardous Materials req PPE
* May be required to travel to various work sites
* May be required or is required to rotate work shifts
* Tuberculosis testing is completed upon hire and additionally as required