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Ophthalmic Medical Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

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 ... medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health, ophthalmology and outreach services to ...

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 ... medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health, ophthalmology and outreach services to ...

The Scribe will also assist with facilitation of surgery and procedure scheduling and scheduling of ... Obtain complete patient histories including chief complaint, past ocular/medical history, family ...

The Scribe will also assist with facilitation of surgery and procedure scheduling and scheduling of ... Obtain complete patient histories including chief complaint, past ocular/medical history, family ...

The Scribe will also assist with facilitation of surgery and procedure scheduling and scheduling of ... Obtain complete patient histories including chief complaint, past ocular/medical history, family ...

The Scribe will also assist with facilitation of surgery and procedure scheduling and scheduling of ... Obtain complete patient histories including chief complaint, past ocular/medical history, family ...

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)/Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) preferred. * Experience with an Electronic Health Record (EHR) preferred. * Experience in Medical scribing preferred.

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Ophthalmic Medical Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

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How much do ophthalmic medical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic medical assistant in Riverside, CA is $20.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are ophthalmic assistants in demand?

Ophthalmic medical assistants are in demand due to the growing need for eye care services and an aging population. They typically work in ophthalmology clinics and assist with patient care, testing, and administrative tasks, with employment opportunities expected to grow faster than average in the healthcare industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ophthalmic Medical Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ophthalmic Medical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of eye anatomy, visual testing procedures, and basic patient care, typically gained through a specialized certificate or associate degree program. Proficiency with ophthalmic instruments, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and diagnostic equipment like tonometers is expected. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to reassure patients are crucial for delivering excellent care and ensuring accurate data collection. These skills and qualities are vital for supporting ophthalmologists, maintaining efficient clinical operations, and providing a positive patient experience.

What are Ophthalmic Medical Assistants?

Ophthalmic Medical Assistants are healthcare professionals who work alongside ophthalmologists to provide patient care related to eye health. Their duties include taking patient histories, performing basic eye exams, administering eye medications, and assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures. They also help with patient education and may handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments. Ophthalmic Medical Assistants play a vital role in ensuring an efficient and effective eye care practice.

What does an ophthalmic assistant do?

An ophthalmic medical assistant supports eye care professionals by preparing patients for exams, taking medical histories, performing basic eye tests, and assisting with diagnostic procedures. They may also handle administrative tasks and ensure the clinic runs smoothly, often working with specialized ophthalmic equipment and maintaining patient records.

Can a medical assistant be an ophthalmic assistant?

An ophthalmic medical assistant is a specialized role that often requires additional training or certification in eye care procedures, but some medical assistants can transition into this role with relevant skills and experience. Certification programs in ophthalmic assisting can enhance job prospects and ensure competence in ophthalmic procedures and patient care. Employers may prefer candidates with knowledge of ophthalmic instruments and eye anatomy.

What is the highest paid medical assistant?

Among medical assistants, those working in specialized fields such as ophthalmic medical assisting or in certain high-demand regions tend to earn higher salaries. Generally, medical assistants with additional certifications, experience, or working in outpatient clinics and hospitals can earn higher wages, with top earners making around $45,000 to $50,000 annually. However, salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise.

What Does an Ophthalmic Medical Assistant Do?

As an ophthalmic medical assistant, your primary responsibilities are obtaining information for medical records and helping an ophthalmologist with procedures and patient care. Your duties are gathering patient history, current symptoms, and complaints, and preparing the patient for the examination with standard tests and measurements. You are in charge of checking eye pressure and vision, and recording measurements. You also take down anatomical and functional information and may assist in administering or preparing medications for a physician. You offer resources and educate patients on eye health and contact lens care.

What are some of the typical challenges Ophthalmic Medical Assistants encounter when supporting ophthalmologists during patient examinations?

Ophthalmic Medical Assistants often manage a fast-paced environment, juggling multiple patient appointments while ensuring accurate documentation and testing. They must be detail-oriented to correctly perform vision tests, gather patient histories, and assist with minor procedures. Communication is key, as they frequently explain complex instructions to patients and coordinate with physicians and other clinical staff. Adapting to rapidly changing technology and maintaining patient comfort during exams are also common challenges in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Ophthalmic Medical Assistant vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectOphthalmic Medical AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CertificationsUsually certified or trained in ophthalmic assisting programsOften certified as an ophthalmic technician (COA or COT)
Work EnvironmentOptometry and ophthalmology clinics, outpatient settingsSpecialized ophthalmic clinics, hospitals, surgical centers
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with patient exams, take medical histories, perform basic testsPerform diagnostic tests, measure visual acuity, assist in procedures

Ophthalmic Medical Assistants and Ophthalmic Technicians share similar work environments and require related certifications. However, Ophthalmic Technicians typically perform more advanced diagnostic tests and have specialized training, making them more involved in clinical assessments. Both roles are essential in eye care teams, but the Technician role often requires additional certification and technical skills.

What job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Ophthalmic Medical Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Medical Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,744 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

unicare

San Bernardino, CA

$19 - $24/hr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative relationship to provide patients with optimum levels of general optometric care. Under the direct supervision of the doctor, will provide technical and support assistance to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the doctors of optometry. Medical Assistant II works under the Clinic Manager to assist with maintaining efficient patient flow and quality care during clinic hours.  The Medical Assistant II works as part of a health care team including physicians, NP/PA’s, patient services representatives, medical records, health educators and social workers to provide comprehensive care in a non-judgmental manner.  Unicare Community Health Centers is a federally qualified health center providing comprehensive patient-centered primary care services including medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health, ophthalmology and outreach services to low income, multiethnic, uninsured and underinsured populations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time with reasonable accommodation.

  • Accurately record patients medical and visual history, review and prepare other clinical information (PST, Medicare refresh, etc.) for doctor(s).
  • Take and record patient vitals when indicated in EMR. Perform appropriate pre-testing, such as but not limited to assessing gross visual skills, extraocular muscle action and pupillary reflexes.
  • Perform OCT, Visual Fields and Diabetic Photos.
  • Maintain accurate records and reports as instructed by the doctor.
  • Utilize eCW system to schedule and review appointments for need and accuracy.
  • Interprets for the provider and staff as needed.
  • Instill eye-drops when ordered by the doctor. Assist in therapeutic procedures such as foreign body removal.
  • Receive and process phone calls and other patient communication, from patients, assess the nature of the situation and manage triage accordingly. Manage all aspects of doctor(s) schedule, including booking appointments.
  • Maintain diagnostic and therapeutic instruments and equipment to ensure that they are clean and accurate. Assess condition of instruments and arrange for repair and/or recalibration as necessary. Maintain instruments and medications for ophthalmic therapeutics; ensure that instruments and medications are available and sterile.
  • Respond to patient concerns and resolve or forward them to the proper person or area for resolution.
  • Coordinate patient optometric care with optical dispensing, membership services, family practice, ophthalmology, pharmacy and other Unicare departments and services.
  • Follow all Unicare policies, procedures, and behavior guidelines and standards for the treatment of members and confidentiality of their care.
  • Assist with intake, financial screening, and set-up for patient visits.
  • Assist as needed including medication refill requests, specialty and procedure referrals, pre and post clinic chart review.
  • Work with Manager to oversee dispensary logs and storage to maintain quality assurance.
  • Coordinate the inventory, ordering and supply stock maintenance of medical supplies.
  • Assists with daily and monthly quality assurance reviews including emergency kit check off.
 Non-Essential Functions
  • As directed by the Clinic Manager, performs other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.
   Professional Requirements
  • Adhere to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
  • Maintain current license, registrations and/or certifications.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
  • Report to work on time and as scheduled as attendance and punctuality is necessary.
  • Ability to work well with a multidisciplinary team.
  • Ability to problem solve and be self-motivated.
  • Maintain regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and local regulations.
  • Represent the organization in a positive and professional manner at all times.                                                
  • Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.                          
  • Communicate the mission, ethics and goals of the organization.
  • Must have excellent written and oral skills, strong organizational, problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Expected to have strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to understand and follow written/verbal instructions.
  • Able to work independently with little or no supervision.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or GED required.
  • Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred.
  • Completion of medical assistant training program preferred.
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience in an outpatient medical clinic or hospital, medical office setting.
  • One (1) year of previous experience in optometric or other ophthalmic practice.
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team.
  • Possess personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to corporate mission.
  • Flexible and able to multitask; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of policies and procedures as they relate to safe work practices.
  • Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including evenings.
  • Must be self-directed and work productively with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, Access, Outlook
  • Knowledge of Electronic Health Records
  • Thorough knowledge of basic science and optics, familiarity with optometric and/or ophthalmic procedure related to preliminary testing.

Basic knowledge of instillation of optometric diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceuticals as applied to the practice of optometry.

  • Demonstrate the skills to provide age-appropriate care to the clients of the clinic.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principals of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to interpret information relative to the patients age related needs.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
  • Pushing and pulling objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Frequent wrist, hand, and finger dexterity to perform fine motor function.
  • Position requires light to moderate work with 25 lb. maximum weight to lift and carry.
  • Full range of body motion requires twisting body, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, listening, talking, and/or hearing, and seeing.
  • Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
  Working Conditions
  • Non-Ionizing Radiation (microwaves)
  • Hazardous Exposure (chemical [E.G. Latex] and infectious)
Work Schedule
  • You will generally be scheduled to work each day Monday through Friday, with starting times each day varying between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and ending time between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., as required to meet the operational needs of the company. There will be occasional Saturdays as needed.

You will need to travel to other clinic locations as needed for cross coverage support.

Our MissionThe mission of Unicare is to be a community health care organization that treats everyone with dignity, respect and cultural sensitivity to help create an environment in which all can prosper.