ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

North American Staffing Group

Ophthalmology Tech

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Qualified candidates should have previous experience as an Ophthalmic Assistant and be comfortable performing ophthalmic testing and patient workups in a fast-paced clinical environment. Required ...

unicare

Optometry - Ophthalmic Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Job SummaryThe Ophthalmic Assistant provides clinical and administrative support to Optometrist. Including welcoming and assisting patients, obtaining medical and ocular histories, performing ...

unicare

Optometry - Ophthalmic Assistant

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Job SummaryThe Ophthalmic Assistant provides clinical and administrative support to Optometrist. Including welcoming and assisting patients, obtaining medical and ocular histories, performing ...

unicare

Optometry - Ophthalmic Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Job SummaryThe Ophthalmic Assistant provides clinical and administrative support to Optometrist. Including welcoming and assisting patients, obtaining medical and ocular histories, performing ...

Pacific Eye Institute

Ophthalmic Technician

Eastvale, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

The Ophthalmic Technician performs measurements and tests that provide the physician with the ... Anticipate and address service needs, assist individuals with disabilities, and thank others with ...

Azul Vision

Ophthalmic Technician

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The Ophthalmic Technician is primarily responsible for the work up, education and follow up of ... Triage phone calls and forward to appropriate office staff. * Assist in minor procedures. * Prepare ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOphthalmic JobsOphthalmic Assistant JobsOphthalmic Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in Riverside, CA is $20.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.32 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 popular job titles related to Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Ophthalmic Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Ophthalmic Assistant job openings:

Ophthalmic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,497 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Ophthalmology Tech

Irvine, CA • On-site

North American Staffing Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about North American Staffing Groupexternal

$20.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Ophthalmic Technician
Location: Orange County, CA
Employment Type: Upcoming Opportunities / Talent Pipeline
Medica Talent Group is currently seeking experienced Ophthalmic Technicians to build a candidate pipeline for anticipated opportunities with a leading healthcare organization in Orange County.
Qualified candidates should have previous experience as an Ophthalmic Assistant and be comfortable performing ophthalmic testing and patient workups in a fast-paced clinical environment.
Required Qualifications
Previous experience as an Ophthalmic Assistant
Current Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification
Current BLS certification required by time of hire
Understanding of medical terminology, infection-control techniques, and age-related acuity levels
Ability to perform all but the most specialized ophthalmic tests and patient workups to assist medical staff with diagnosis
Ability to collect and interpret patient data to identify age-specific needs
Ability to evaluate and document patient and family response to care
Strong customer-service skills appropriate for a patient-care environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Ability to maintain flexibility and work effectively in a constantly changing environment
Ability to maintain a work pace appropriate to the workload
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with healthcare team members
Demonstrated skills, knowledge, and ability necessary to successfully perform assigned duties

Preferred Qualifications
Working knowledge of Title 22 and JCAHO standards
Surgical Technician certification
Bilingual skills in English and Spanish and/or Vietnamese
Ability to instruct others in the use of equipment and performance of procedures

Apply Today: We are currently accepting applications from qualified Ophthalmic Technicians interested in upcoming opportunities throughout Orange County. Specific work location, schedule, compensation, assignment duration, and additional position details will be provided as opportunities become available.
Apply today to be considered for upcoming Ophthalmic Technician opportunities!