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Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

OPHTHALMOLOGY TECH COA

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... assist minor surgery, assist laser procedures, OCT, and IV eye diagnostic injections ... Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Physical Conditions: Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force ...

Nursing Assistant

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Nursing Assistant Join AAESC/HRESC as a Nursing Assistant, where you will provide direct support to ... Supportive, team-driven culture within a leading ophthalmic surgery environment * Hands-on clinical ...

PACU RN

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

Speciality areas include ENT, GI Lab, General Surgery, GYN, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, Pain ... At times, assist the physicians in the procedure rooms with various tasks, conscious sedation and ...

PACU RN

Rio Rancho, NM ยท On-site

Speciality areas include ENT, GI Lab, General Surgery, GYN, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, Pain ... At times, assist the physicians in the procedure rooms with various tasks, conscious sedation and ...

Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do ophthalmic surgical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmic surgical assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmic surgical assistant?

Ophthalmic Surgical Assistants are specialized healthcare professionals who support ophthalmologists during eye surgeries and related procedures. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, assisting during surgery, and ensuring patient safety. They also help with pre- and post-operative care, maintain surgical equipment, and may assist in minor office procedures. Their role is vital for the smooth functioning of ophthalmic surgical teams and for ensuring high standards of patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ophthalmic surgical assistant?

To thrive as an Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant, you need a strong understanding of ocular anatomy, aseptic technique, and surgical procedures, typically supported by a certificate or associate degree in ophthalmic assisting. Familiarity with surgical instruments, sterilization equipment, and electronic medical record (EMR) systems is crucial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication skills help you anticipate surgeon needs and support patient care. These abilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient surgeries and high-quality patient outcomes in ophthalmic settings.

What are some common challenges faced by ophthalmic surgical assistants during surgical procedures?

Ophthalmic Surgical Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining a sterile field in a fast-paced environment, anticipating the needs of surgeons during delicate eye surgeries, and managing multiple instruments efficiently. Additionally, they must stay calm and focused, especially during unexpected complications or emergencies. Effective teamwork, strong attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring patient safety.

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

AspectOphthalmic Surgical AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CredentialsCertified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or similar certificationCOA or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)
Work EnvironmentAssist in surgical procedures, prepare instruments, support surgeonsPerform diagnostic tests, patient exams, and assist in clinical settings
Employer & IndustryOphthalmic surgical centers, hospitals, clinicsOptometry and ophthalmology clinics, hospitals

While both roles support eye care professionals, Ophthalmic Surgical Assistants focus on assisting during surgeries and preparing for procedures, whereas Ophthalmic Technicians primarily perform diagnostic tests and patient assessments. Both roles require similar certifications and work in clinical or surgical environments within the eye care industry.

Are ophthalmic surgical assistants in demand?

Ophthalmic surgical assistants are in demand due to the growing need for eye care and surgical procedures. They often work alongside ophthalmologists in surgical settings, and their skills in patient preparation and assisting during surgeries make them valuable in ophthalmology clinics and hospitals.

How do I become an ophthalmic surgical assistant?

To become an ophthalmic surgical assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in ophthalmic assisting. Many employers prefer candidates with certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). Relevant skills include knowledge of ophthalmic instruments, patient care, and sterile techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or formal education programs.

Is being an ophthalmic surgical assistant worth it?

Ophthalmic surgical assistants perform support tasks during eye surgeries, requiring knowledge of surgical procedures and patient care. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for specialization, and typically requires certification or training, making it a valuable career for those interested in healthcare and eye surgery support.

What job categories do people searching Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

Infographic showing various Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,216 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

OPHTHALMOLOGY TECH COA

UNMHSCHS

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Receive 17% Weekday Nights, 26% Weekend Nights and 15% Weekend Day shift differentials
Compensation Disclaimer
Compensation for this role is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to experience, education, and other business and organizational considerations.
Department: Ophthalmology On Site Clinic
FTE: 1.00
Full Time
Shift: Days
Position Summary:
Provide technical expertise and daily management in ophthalmologic care delivery. Ensure adherence to Hospitals and departmental policies and procedures. Patient care assignment may include neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric age groups.
Detailed responsibilities:
* TREATMENT - Perform routine treatment procedures - ocular motility skills, basic contact lens evaluation, polishing lenses, slit lamp evaluation and over refraction, keratometry, tonometry, color vision testing, visual acuity, field tests, eye drops, dressing and ointment administration, pharmacology, assess vital signs; coordinate lab results, assist minor surgery, assist laser procedures, OCT, and IV eye diagnostic injections
* DOCUMENTATION - Prepare and process patient charts and related information; maintain filing system
* BILLING - Prepare information utilized for payment of UNM Hospitals charges for component billing
* FINANCE - Assist in monitoring unit's fiscal responsibilities
* EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - Ensure equipment is maintained; monitor supply and medicine requisitions
* EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES - Assist in care and maintenance of department facilities, equipment and supplies
* PATIENT CARE - Assist in preparation of patient care areas; assist patients in the admission, transfer and discharge process; triage patient care
* PATIENT CARE - Deliver and document patient care; ensure medical orders are carried out; perform chart audits ensuring compliance to applicable standards
* PATIENT EDUCATION - Assist in patient education on ophthalmologic techniques and devices
* DEVELOPMENT - Enhance professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, reading current literature, attending in-services, meetings and workshops
* EYE CARE - Refer patients to appropriate Ophthalmology sub-specialty requiring tertiary eye care or as determined by division guidelines
* TEAMS - Participate in and contribute to cross-functional and interdepartmental teams and exercises
* PATIENT SAFETY 1 - Follow patient safety-related policies, procedures and protocols
* PATIENT SAFETY 2 - Demonstrate proactive approach to patient safety by seeking opportunities to improve patient safety through questioning of current policies and processes
* PATIENT SAFETY 3 - Identify and report/correct environmental conditions and/or situations that may put a patient at undue risk
* PATIENT SAFETY 4 - Report potential or actual patient safety concerns, medical errors and/or near misses in a timely manner
* PATIENT SAFETY 5 - Encourage patients to actively participate in their own care by asking questions and reporting treatment or situations that they don't understand or may "not seem right"
Qualifications
Education:
Essential:
* High School or GED Equivalent
Experience:
Essential:
Nonessential:
Bilingual English, Spanish, Keres, Tewa, Tiwa, Towa, Zuni, or Navajo1 year directly related experience
Credentials:
Essential:
* CPR for Healthcare/BLS Prov or Prof Rescuers w/in 30 days
* Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
Physical Conditions:
Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
Working conditions:
Essential:
* Sig Hazard: Chemicals, Bio Hazardous Materials req PPE
* May be required to travel to various work sites
* May be required or is required to rotate work shifts
* Tuberculosis testing is completed upon hire and additionally as required