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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Scribe

Upland, CA ยท On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

The Scribe will also assist with facilitation of surgery and procedure scheduling and scheduling of ... Previous experience with EHR systems required and ophthalmology experience highly preferred

Back Office Technician

Pomona, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (preferred) * Valid Driver's License may be required based on clinic location(s). KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/TALENTS: * Team player and contributor coupled with ...

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (preferred) * Valid Driver's License may be required based on clinic location(s). KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/TALENTS: * Team player and contributor coupled with ...

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Job Summary Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative ... Maintain instruments and medications for ophthalmic therapeutics; ensure that instruments and ...

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Ophthalmic Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmic jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Ophthalmic 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:

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.

PD Certified Ophthalmic Assistant - Irvine GHEI Ophthalmology - Varied

UC Irvine

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

UCI Health is one of California's largest academic health systems and the clinical enterprise of the University of California, Irvine. Established on July 1, 1976, UCI Health has grown into a 1,461-bed health system that includes UCI Health โ€” Orange, UCI Health โ€” Irvine, four Community Network hospitals and a growing network of ambulatory care centers across Orange and Los Angeles counties. As Orange County's only academic health systems, UCI Health is home to the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center based in the county, the region's only American College of Surgeons-verified Level I adult and Level II pediatric trauma center, American College of Emergency Physicians Gold Level 1 Geriatric Emergency Department and a nationally recognized regional burn center verified by the American Burn Association. Powered by UC Irvine, UCI Health serves 5.6 million people across Orange County, western Riverside County and southeast Los Angeles County through excellence in patient care, research and medical education.

Your Role on the Team

Position Summary

Incumbent demonstrates competency in all duties typically performed by a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant. Initiates care of the patient by performing preliminary examinations, including recording patient history, testing visual acuity, intra-ocular pressure, neutralizing current lenses with the lensometer, automated and simple manifest refractions, and screening color tests. Performs special tests based on physicians' orders including keratometer readings, visual fields, GDX, topography, and axial length measurements. Assists with patient and pharmacy telephone calls and prescription refills. Sets up, assists with and cleans up after minor surgical procedures. Properly cleans, operates and maintains ophthalmic equipment. Educates patients and provides instructions for care after treatment. Retrieves lab and radiology reports using a computer.

What It Takes to be Successful

Required Qualifications

Understanding of medical terminology, infectious control techniques and age related acuity levels Previous experience as an Ophthalmic Assistant Must possess the skill, knowledge and ability essential to the successful performance of assigned duties Must demonstrate customer service skills appropriate to the job Must be competent in collecting and interpreting data about the patient's status in order to identify each patient's age specific needs Knowledge of medical terminology, infectious control techniques and age related acuity levels Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English Current COA certification Current BLS certification required by time of hire Capable of performing all but the most specialized tests and patient work ups in order for medical staff to diagnose problem Able to evaluate and document the patient/family response to care Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English Ability to maintain flexibility and work well in a constantly changing environment Ability to maintain a work pace appropriate to the workload Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across the Health System

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

Total Rewards

We offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks.

Conditions of Employment

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) seeks to provide a safe and healthy environment for the entire UCI community. As part of this commitment, all applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the following conditions of employment: Background Check and Live Scan Employment Misconduct* Legal Right to Work in the United States Vaccination Policies Smoking and Tobacco Policy Drug Free Environment *Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer. The following additional conditions may apply, some of which are dependent upon business unit or job specific requirements. California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act E-Verify Pre-Placement Health Evaluation Details of each policy may be reviewed by visiting the following page: https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php

Closing Statement: The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce along with honoring unique experiences, perspectives, and identities. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming. UCI provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact UCI's Employee Experience Center (EEC) at eec@uci.edu or at (949) 824-0500, Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Consideration for Work Authorization Sponsorship Must be able to provide proof of work authorization