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Ophthalmic Assistant Jobs in San Ramon, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sutter Health

Ophthalmic Photographer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$42.78 - $59.89/hr

COA-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant * OR COT-Certified Ophthalmic Technologist * BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider TYPICAL EXPERIENCE: * 1 year of recent relevant experience. SKILLS AND ...

Sutter Health

Ophthalmic Photographer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$42.78 - $59.89/hr

COA-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant * OR COT-Certified Ophthalmic Technologist * BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider TYPICAL EXPERIENCE: * 1 year of recent relevant experience. SKILLS AND ...

Sutter Health

Ophthalmic Photographer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$42.78 - $59.89/hr

COA-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant * OR COT-Certified Ophthalmic Technologist * BLS-Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider TYPICAL EXPERIENCE: * 1 year of recent relevant experience. SKILLS AND ...

Kaiser Permanente

Ophthalmic Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

The Ophthalmic Technician/photographer is a member of the health care team who, working under the supervision of the department manager, assumes responsibility and accountability for performing ...

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Ophthalmic Assistant information

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$14

$22

$29

How much do ophthalmic assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic assistant in San Ramon, CA is $22.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.00 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 San Ramon, CA look for?

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

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

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

Ophthalmic Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Assistant job openings in San Ramon, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,593 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

Alameda Health System

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Alameda Health System rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

SUMMARY: Possesses knowledge and skills in history taking, patient services, instrument maintenance, basic clinical optics, basic ocular motility, visual fields, intermediate tonometry, ocular pharmacology, and photography. Incumbent assists physicians and other technical support staff to perform diagnostic tests necessary for evaluation of patient eye problems. Performs related duties as required.

DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: NOTE: Following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual in the classification. 

1.  Assist in coordinating services for patients, e.g., reminder calls, scheduling tests, etc.

2.  Assist the physician in the preparation of routine microbiological specimens.

3.  Calibrate and maintain all instruments used including, but not limited to bio- microscopes, lensometer, keratometer, slit lamp and tonometers; clean and stock consultation rooms and microbiology laboratory with drugs and other supplies as needed.

4.  Examine the cornea, lens and anterior chamber of the eye using a slit lamp and note variations from normal.

5.  Maintains knowledge of local and topical anesthesia, lachrymal surgery, oculo-plastic surgery, orbital surgery, post-op drugs and their reactions, and prescription medications.

6.  Measure acuity of patient, with and without glasses, for distance and near vision; obtain optical and lensometry measurements to determine lens prescription; record findings on patient chart.

7.  Other duties as necessary.

8.  Performs testing: corneal topography, autorefraction, contrast sensitivity tests, tonometry, Humphrey visual fields, OCT, pachymetry, A-Scan for IOL calculation, B-Scan, ophthalmic photography and using other ophthalmic equipment in the clinic.

9.  Performs initial patient exams, which includes: obtaining ocular, medical, and family histories; measuring, comparing, and testing pupils; measuring visual acuity and eye pressures; color vision testing applies eye dressings.

10. Provides information to patients concerning procedures and surgery; verifies surgery schedules; maintains, sterilizes, and sets up instruments for procedures; assists doctors with procedures and patient monitoring.

11. Sterilize and set up instruments for ophthalmic procedures; assist with office procedures and laser treatments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Experience: One year of relevant experience.

Preferred Licenses/Certifications: Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Certfication or coursework working towards a COA or COT.

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