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Ophthalmology Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Trinityhealth

$22.18 - $29.55/hr

None upon hire After graduation from an ophthalmic technician education course, staff in the Ophthalmic Assistant position are required to become certified ophthalmic assistants within the first year ...

Trinity Health

$22.18 - $29.55/hr

None upon hire After graduation from an ophthalmic technician education course, staff in the Ophthalmic Assistant position are required to become certified ophthalmic assistants within the first year ...

Trinity Health

$29.55/hr

Perform basic and routine eye examination procedures to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of ... Ophthalmic Technician Program Minimum Experience: Required: Less than one year of previous job ...

Trinityhealth

$29.55/hr

Perform basic and routine eye examination procedures to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of ... Ophthalmic Technician Program Minimum Experience: Required: Less than one year of previous job ...

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All JobsOphthalmology JobsOphthalmology Assistant JobsOphthalmology Assistant Jobs in California

Ophthalmology Assistant information

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$19

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How much do ophthalmology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmology assistant in California is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.07 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.
More about Ophthalmology Assistant jobs

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

The most popular types of Ophthalmology jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ophthalmology Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ophthalmology Assistant job openings:

Ophthalmology Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmology Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,147 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Ophthalmology Assistant

Loma Linda University Medical Center

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Loma Linda University Health rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 1,064 rated hospitals

Job description

Department: UHC: Ophthalmology

Job Summary: The Ophthalmology Assistant performs: visual acuity, hand held tonometry, potential acuity meter, brightness acuity testing, intake, automatic and manual lensometry, keratometry, visual field testing, APD, AR IOL Master, and other basic tests. Prepares patients for special testing, completes history & physical forms, files, prepares injections, assists in minor surgical procedures, transcribes chart notes, transposes eyeglass prescriptions, and performs basic diagnostic testing. Performs other duties as needed.
Education and Experience: High School Diploma or GED required. Bachelor's Degree preferred. Minimum six months of experience in front and/or back office in ophthalmology or optometry, or a combination of equivalent education and experience required.
Knowledge and Skills: Efficient in ophthalmic and medical terminology, knowledge of insurances, and ophthalmic anatomy. Able to keyboard 40 wpm. Able to use a computer, printer, and software programs necessary to the position (e.g., Word, EXCEL, Outlook). Ability to apply basic principles of ophthalmic patient care to assist and support physicians and team; competent use of computer (Windows applications), copier, fax machine, scanner, answering telephones; good digital dexterity; fine motor skills and fine finger activity to proficiently handle testing instruments; good hand-eye coordination to utilize medical tools. Requires good oral and written communication with health team, patients, and families. Requires good judgment in the clinical environment, commensurate with advanced technique; ability to interact positively and professionally with others; communicate clearly; emotional stability; attention to detail; cope effectively with stressful situations. Requires adequate visual, hearing, olfactory and tactile acuity to proficiently perform essential duties. Visual acuity of 20/25 with correction, and ability to distinguish colors, hearing capacity to sense body sounds, sense of touch adequacy to measure by palpitation; ability to smell odors related to disease processes.
Licensures and Certifications: Satisfactory completion of (competency in) Loma Linda departmental standards for Ophthalmic Assistant required within 90 days of hire. BLS issued by the American Heart Association within 90 days of hire and must be maintained. Valid Driver's License required at time of hire.

Our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our core values are compassion, excellence, humility, integrity, justice, teamwork and wholeness.

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About Loma Linda University Health

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Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is an esteemed healthcare organization situated in Loma Linda, California, US. Established in 1905, it was initially known as the College of Medical Evangelists, and it operated as the official medical institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church until the name was changed to LLUH in 1961. LLUH is very much active in the healthcare and education sectors, providing a vast range of services such as medical treatment, research, and health education. The organization’s core mission is "to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ", which underlines its binding values of compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, and justice.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Loma Linda, CA, US

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