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Ophthalmic Medical Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Technician

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

Successful completion of accredited ophthalmic medical assistant program, helpful but not required * Certification as Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist by Joint Commission of Allied Health ...

Join Our Team as an Ophthalmic Medical Assistant Vistar Eye Center is seeking dynamic, patient-focused individuals who are ready to grow with our company and make a difference in eye care. Position ...

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Ophthalmic Medical Assistant information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do ophthalmic medical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic medical assistant in the United States is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmic medical assistant?

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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ophthalmic medical assistant?

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 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.

How much do ophthalmic medical assistants make?

Ophthalmic medical assistants in Houston typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on the employer and the complexity of procedures involved, with some earning higher with specialized skills or additional certifications.

Is being an ophthalmic medical assistant worth it?

Ophthalmic medical assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in eye care settings, often requiring certification and technical skills. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for specialization, and a median salary that is competitive within healthcare support positions.

What cities are hiring for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Ophthalmic Medical Assistant job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs?

The top employers for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs are:

What states have the most Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ophthalmic Medical Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Medical Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,971 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Ophthalmic Medical Assistant / Dallas

Texas Retina Associates

Dallas, TX

$17 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Texas Retina Associates rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Purpose

This position will be located in the Dallas Main office and will provide support for physicians. Can also be required to travel to other locations to provide support for physicians. The position will report directly to the Clinical Operations Manager and will help the physician in the testing, examination, education, and treatment of patients. Scribe experience preferred, but willing to train.

Texas Retina Associates is Texas’ largest, most experienced ophthalmology practice focused specifically on the diagnosis, medical and surgical management of diseases of the retina and vitreous. Our fellowshipped and specialty trained physicians care for the most complicated retina conditions such as ocular cancer and uveitis. This physician owned medical group provides services at 15 locations throughout the DFW metroplex, Waco, Wichita Falls and Lubbock.

Essential Duties

Greet patients in a cordial, friendly and prompt manner.

Escort patients to examining rooms, verify patient information and makes necessary documentation to patient charts. Take detailed medical histories and determine the reason for the visit.

Obtains all appropriate consent forms

Conduct ocular tests to measure functions of the patient’s pupils, muscle, visual acuity, and extraocular movements.

Present patient history summary and alert Ophthalmologist to changes in visual acuity, elevated extraocular pressure or blood pressure, etc.

Administer topical ophthalmic or oral medications.

Annotate patient charts with exam and treatment results.

Maintain knowledge of operation and maintenance of clinical equipment, drugs, and supplies.

Must be able to operate accurately the following equipment: Tonopen, Sterilizer, Projector

Contribute to maintaining a clean and sterile environment

Adhere to all OSHA and Infectious Waste Procedures

Perform ad-hoc tasks in support of the clinical department as needed

Perform tasks in support of the Clinical Research Department as needed

Maintain compliance with all practice procedures and protocols

Maintain HIPAA compliance for all patient information

Notify appropriate staff in a timely manner regarding adequate supplies

Cleaning and Care of Ophthalmic Instruments

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill and /or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Minimum Education and Experience

High school diploma (or GED)

One year of experience as a Medical Assistant in an Ophthalmic practice required. Retinal practice experience preferred.

Training in medical terminology preferred.

Experience with NextGen and Patient Management preferred.

Skills and Specifications

Excellent interpersonal skills to deal effectively with patients, patient’s family members, physicians, clinicians and administrators.

Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.

Must be able to recognize and appropriately respond to urgent / emergency situations per protocol.

Perform triage per specific office protocol procedures.

Ability to work in a dynamic, fast paced environment

Meticulous attention to detail

Strong ability to listen, answer all questions as simply as possible and act when needed.

Excellent computer skills

Complete all other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Sedentary with prolonged sitting and working at computer.

Prolonged periods of standing, walking and bending.

Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. maximum and occasionally lifting and/or carrying such articles as reports, files and small items.

Have the hand eye coordination and manual dexterity required to perform all duties.


What Texas Retina Associates employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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