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

Ophthalmic Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

The Ophthalmic Assistant provides specialized support to clinicians for the purpose of patient evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Responsible for providing intermediate to advanced technical ...

Ophthalmic Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

The Ophthalmic Assistant provides specialized support to clinicians for the purpose of patient evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Responsible for providing intermediate to advanced technical ...

You will also assist in various ophthalmic procedures, working alongside experienced professionals to provide top-quality care. This position offers the opportunity to directly impact patients' eye ...

Ophthalmologist MD or DO from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

Ophthalmologist MD or DO from an accredited school * Valid state ophthalmology license * General Liability Certificate * Professional Liability Insurance Certificate By continuing with this process ...

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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 Jun 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.

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 patient records. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for certification, and a clear career path in eye care, often requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

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.

Do you have to be certified to be an ophthalmic assistant?

Certification is not always required to become an ophthalmic assistant, but many employers prefer or require certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). Obtaining certification can improve job prospects and demonstrate competence in skills such as eye measurements, patient care, and use of ophthalmic instruments. Requirements vary by employer and state regulations, so some assistants may start with on-the-job training while others pursue certification beforehand.

How much does a non-certified ophthalmic assistant make?

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

What do you do as an ophthalmic assistant?

An ophthalmic assistant supports eye care professionals by preparing patients for exams, taking medical histories, performing basic eye tests, and assisting with diagnostic procedures. They often operate specialized equipment and must follow safety and hygiene protocols, typically working in clinical or optical settings. Certification or training in ophthalmic assisting is usually required.

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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,216 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Ophthalmic Assistant

Ophthalmic Assistant

UnitedHealth Group

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$20.38 - $36.44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

For those who want to invent the future of health care, here's your opportunity. We're going beyond basic care to health programs integrated across the entire continuum of care. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

The Ophthalmic Assistant provides specialized support to clinicians for the purpose of patient evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Responsible for providing intermediate to advanced technical expertise and daily management in ophthalmic care delivery and assists with technical procedures under the direction of the clinician. Represents the organization by providing high quality care and an exceptional patient experience. Adheres to policies, procedures and regulations to ensure compliance and patient safety. Participation in Compliance and other important training is a condition of employment.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Obtain and document patient medical and eye history:  Chief complaint, past history patient/family, ocular history patient/family, including medications and allergies
  • Triage patients as necessary
  • Basic Ophthalmic/Department tech competencies: Ability to perform applanation tonometry, estimate anterior chamber depth with slit lamp
  • Theoretical knowledge to include aqueous humor dynamics, open vs. closed angle glaucoma
  • Ocular motility skills, OCT, pachymetry, laser skills, photography skills, and minor surgical skills
  • Prepares patient for visual field testing and performs test
  • Basic knowledge of testing requirements, knowledge/performance of Humphrey VF, defects, static vs. kinetic, fixation losses and plotting blind spot
  • Lensometer skills: Ability to measure and record lens prescriptions with auto and manual lensometers (without assistance), troubleshoot prescription problems, detect minor frame adjustments, knowledge of plus/minus cylinders, ability to transpose prescriptions and detect prism
  • Contact lens skills: Accurately over-refract and record visual acuity and polish lenses
  • Pharmacology:  Proper aseptic technique, proper instillation of eye drop medication (without supervision)
  • Care of Capital Equipment:  Lensometer, Phoropters, Keratometer, Slit Lamp, Projectors
  • Reviews chart for procedure information and ensures accuracy/attention to detail too include: treating correct eye, prior authorizations are in place, consent forms complete as needed
  • Demonstrates proper sterile technique and preparing patients for procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Current BLS Certification
  • COA certification through JCAHPO or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire
  • 1 years of ophthalmic/optometric practice experience
  • Medical terminology

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proven ability to maintain confidentiality, perform basic filing and office procedures, skilled in a variety of software programs 
  • Proven solid interpersonal and communication skills

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $20.38 to $36.44 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.


At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. 


UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.


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