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Ophthalmology Assistant Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Optometric Assistant

Sitka, AK

$18 - $23.25/hr

Knowledge of medical and ophthalmic terminology. * Knowledge and demonstrated use of customer ... Ability to learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies. * Ability to problem-solve and use ...

Optometric Assistant

Juneau, AK · On-site

$25 - $30.04/hr

Knowledge of medical and ophthalmic terminology. * Knowledge and demonstrated use of customer ... Ability to learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies. * Ability to problem-solve and use ...

Optometric Assistant I

Juneau, AK · On-site

$25 - $30.04/hr

Knowledge of medical and ophthalmic terminology. * Knowledge and demonstrated use of customer ... Ability to learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies. * Ability to problem-solve and use ...

Optometric Assistant II

Sitka, AK · On-site

$25 - $31.88/hr

Knowledge of medical and ophthalmic terminology. * Knowledge and demonstrated use of customer ... Ability to learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies. * Ability to problem-solve and use ...

CMA

Craig, AK · On-site

$45 - $49/hr

Minimum 1 year of Medical Assistant experience * Flu vaccine required * Experience in optometry or ophthalmology preferred but not required * Must reside at least 50 miles from the facility ...

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Ophthalmology Assistant information

See Alaska salary details

$13

$21

$28

How much do ophthalmology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmology assistant in Alaska is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmology assistant?

An ophthalmology assistant, or ophthalmic assistant, works for a licensed ophthalmologist, providing care related to the eye. Their responsibilities can include taking patient medical histories, helping with eye tests or measurements, informing patients, and logging notes regarding the doctor’s treatments. Other duties may include preparing medication or cleaning equipment. People in this job often work both with the patient and perform basic administrative tasks. You only need a high school diploma and on-the-job training in this career, although some employers prefer candidates with an associate’s degree or certification.

What are the typical daily tasks and patient interactions for an ophthalmology assistant?

As an Ophthalmology Assistant, your daily responsibilities often include preparing exam rooms, assisting ophthalmologists with eye exams, performing preliminary vision tests, administering eye drops, and maintaining patient records. You will frequently interact with patients—explaining procedures, answering questions, and ensuring they are comfortable throughout their visit. Collaborating closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other clinic staff is essential for delivering efficient patient care. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in the eye care field and can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced clinical positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ophthalmology assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as an Ophthalmology Assistant, you need a solid understanding of ocular anatomy, clinical procedures, and patient care, often supported by a certificate or associate degree in ophthalmic assisting. Familiarity with diagnostic equipment like autorefractors, visual field analyzers, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Excellent communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail help you support both patients and ophthalmologists effectively. These skills ensure accurate testing, efficient workflow, and high-quality patient care in ophthalmology practices.

What is the difference between Ophthalmology Assistant vs Ophthalmic Technician?

AspectOphthalmology AssistantOphthalmic Technician
CredentialsTypically certification or on-the-job trainingOften requires certification or specialized training
Work EnvironmentEye clinics, ophthalmology offices, hospitalsEye clinics, hospitals, specialized ophthalmology centers
Job DutiesAssisting with patient prep, basic eye tests, administrative tasksPerforming diagnostic tests, measuring visual acuity, assisting with exams
Industry UsageCommonly used in ophthalmology practicesWidely used in ophthalmology clinics and hospitals

Ophthalmology Assistants and Ophthalmic Technicians both support eye care providers, but Technicians typically perform more advanced diagnostic tests and may require specialized certification. Assistants focus on patient prep and administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in ophthalmology settings and often overlap in work environment and employer usage.

Do I need a degree to be an ophthalmology assistant?

An ophthalmology assistant typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills include knowledge of eye anatomy, patient care, and familiarity with ophthalmic equipment; some employers may prefer or require certification or training programs. On-the-job training is common, and certifications like Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) can enhance job prospects.

Is being an ophthalmology assistant worth it?

Ophthalmology assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in eye care settings, supporting ophthalmologists with patient exams, equipment, and procedures. The role offers opportunities for skill development, certification, and employment in healthcare, with typical work hours and a moderate level of responsibility. Whether it is worth it depends on personal interest in eye health and healthcare careers.

What is the average salary for an ophthalmology assistant?

The average salary for an ophthalmology assistant typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. In North Carolina, salaries tend to be within this range, with some variation based on the healthcare facility and level of expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmology jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Ophthalmology jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Ophthalmology Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Ophthalmology Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Ophthalmology Assistant job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,901 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Ophthalmology Assistant Trainee

Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium is a non-profit Tribal health organization designed to meet the unique health needs of Alaska Native and American Indian people living in Alaska. In partnership with the more than 171,000 Alaska Native and American Indian people that we serve and the Tribal health organizations of the Alaska Tribal Health System, ANTHC provides world-class health services, which include comprehensive medical services at the Alaska Native Medical Center, wellness programs, disease research and prevention, rural provider training and rural water and sanitation systems construction.
ANTHC is the largest, most comprehensive Tribal health organization in the United States, and Alaska's second-largest health employer with more than 3,100 employees offering an array of health services to people around the nation's largest state.
Our vision: Alaska Native people are the healthiest people in the world.
ANTHC offers a competitive and comprehensive Benefits Package for all Benefit Eligible Employees, which includes:
  • Medical Insurance provided through the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program as a Tribal Employee, with over 20 plans and tiers.
  • Cost-Share Dental and Vision Insurances
  • Discounted Pet Insurance
  • Retirement Contributions with Pre-Tax or Roth options into a 403(b).
  • 401(a) ANTHC Retirement Plan: After one year of employment, ANTHC will begin making matching contributions of up to 5% of your eligible pay, based on your own contributions. In addition, you may be eligible for an annual discretionary contribution of up to 3% from the employer.
  • Paid Time Off starts immediately, earning up to 6 hours per pay period, with paid time off accruals increasing based on years of service.
  • Eleven Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave or miscarriage/stillbirth eligibility after six months of employment
  • Basic Short/Long Term Disability premiums, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, and Basic Life Insurance are covered 100% by ANTHC, with additional options for Short-Term Disability Buy-Up Coverage and Voluntary Life for yourself and your family members.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for Healthcare and Dependent Care.
  • Ancillary Cash Benefits for accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness.
  • On-Site Child Care Facility with expert-designed classrooms for early child development and preschool.
  • Employee Assistance Program with support for grief, financial counseling, mental/emotional health, and discounted legal advice.
  • Tuition Discounts for you and your eligible dependents at Alaska Pacific University.
  • On-Site Training Courses and Professional Development Opportunities.
  • License and certification reimbursements and occupational insurance for medical staff.
  • Emergency Travel Assistance
  • Education Assistance or Education leave eligibility
  • Discount program for travel, gym memberships, amusement parks, and more.

Visit us online at www.anthc.org or contact Recruitment directly at HRRecruiting@anthc.org.
Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium has a hiring preference for qualified Alaska Native and American Indian applicants pursuant to P.L. 93-638 Indian Self Determination Act.
Summary:
Under close to limited supervision depending on job title, performs pre-screening exams for patients in ANMC Ophthalmology clinics and/or specialty Ophthalmology field clinics. Level I employees perform work under close supervision, may only perform simple or routine aspects or the position, and generally require a good deal of instruction and/or training. Level III employees perform high level, complex, and responsible tasks within this position, train lower-level employees, and generally work with minimum supervision and follow-up from their supervisor.
Responsibilities:
All
Performs diagnostic testing associated with ophthalmology examinations including photography and ultrasound. Locates and records internal/external elements of the eye, and identifies any anomalies indicative of disease, injury, or other medically significant condition.
Performs ophthalmic evaluations, including specialized eye tests, pre-operative history exams, visual acuity and intraocular pressure measurements. Administers appropriate medications and assists physician in surgical procedures. Instructs patients in pretest preparation, answers questions and explains procedures.
Adjusts equipment and calms patient. Monitors the patient for potentially dangerous physical and emotional changes. Recognizes abnormal signs and immediately notifies physician. Evaluates test results for clarity and accuracy; reviews tests with peers. Informs physicians of preliminary findings as requested, and according to Department procedures. Distributes completed test results to physicians and service providers.
Maintains patient charts, enters diagnosis and billing codes, logs data into patient information systems, and updates file systems for tests performed.
Cleans and sterilizes equipment and workspace. Recognizes equipment malfunctions and readjusts equipment or refers for repair.
Performs other duties as assigned or required.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant (COA)
Trains and cross-trains other clinical staff as required.
Maintains Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology/International Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO/IJCAHPO) requirements to keep COA certification current. Trains in ophthalmic surgery including cataract, strabismus, transplants and plastics preparation for becoming an ophthalmic surgical assistant.
Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant (OSA):
All representative duties as listed above for Certified Ophthalmology Assistant with the addition of but not limited to: Assists in all Ophthalmic surgeries. Maintains JCAHPO requirements to keep OSA certification in an active status. Participates in an on-call technician schedule that can include weekends and/or nights.
Other information:
KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS
All
Knowledge of Medical Terminology
Skill in assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands.
Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of software applications.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant and Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant
Knowledge of diagnostic ophthalmology equipment.
Knowledge of ocular disease process. Knowledge of ophthalmic examination protocols and patient preparation for evaluation.
Knowledge of ophthalmic equipment. Skill in monitoring patient responses and operating ophthalmic equipment.
Skill in performing ophthalmic testing procedures.
MINIMUM EDUCATION QUALIFICATION
All
A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant
Approved independent study course such as the JCAT course or AAO Ophthalmic Medical Assisting course per current JCAHPO guidelines.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION
Ophthalmology Assistant Trainee
Non-supervisory - One (1) year of work experience.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant and Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant
Non-supervisory - Depending on above education qualification per the current JCAHPO guidelines.
MINIMUM CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATION
All
Certification in Basic Life Support required.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant from the JCAHPO/IJCAHPO
Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant
Ophthalmic Surgical Assisting certification from the JCAHPO/IJCAHPO
PREFERRED EDUCATION QUALIFICATION
N/A
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION
N/A
PREFERRED CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATION
N/A
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Ophthalmology Assistant Trainee
The trainee must complete a two-week orientation within the clinic with their trainer. Must meet 30-, 60-, 90-day, and 6-month Course Study Objectives within the designated time frames.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant and Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant
According to the needs of the organization, some incumbents in this job class may be required to obtain additional specific technical certifications.

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