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Ophthalmology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmology Tech

Guilford, CT

$19 - $25.75/hr

Medical Assistant who is a graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program willing to train as an Ophthalmology Assistant : or JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel) 3.High school ...

Ophthalmology Tech

Guilford, CT

$19 - $25.75/hr

Medical Assistant who is a graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program willing to train as an Ophthalmology Assistant : or JCAHPO (Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel) 3.High school ...

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Ophthalmology Assistant information

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$12

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$26

How much do ophthalmology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmology assistant in the United States is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 an Ophthalmic 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 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.

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 Ophthalmology Assistants?

Ophthalmology Assistants are healthcare professionals who support ophthalmologists in eye care clinics and hospitals. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking patient histories, conducting basic vision tests, assisting with eye examinations, and preparing patients for procedures. Their role is essential for ensuring smooth clinic operations and quality patient care. Ophthalmology Assistants may also handle administrative duties, maintain equipment, and educate patients about eye care. With specialized training, they help bridge the gap between patients and eye doctors.
What cities are hiring for Ophthalmology Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Ophthalmology Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ophthalmology jobs? The most popular types of Ophthalmology jobs are:
What states have the most Ophthalmology Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Ophthalmology Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ophthalmology Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,693 per year, or $20 per hour.
Ophthalmology Assistant

Ophthalmology Assistant

Northern Light Health

Presque Isle, ME • On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Northern Light Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

556th of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Northern Light A.R. Gould
Department: Ophthalmology Clinic
Position is located:Northern Light A.R. Gould Hospital
Work Type: Full Time
Hours Per Week: 40.00
Work Schedule: Variable
Summary:
Using Standards of Behavior-demonstrate professionalism at all times with patients and co-workers. A team player is necessary for this position of variable skills, organization and independent working environment. Fast paced setting requires independent thinking and ability and willingness to be flexible and adaptable to changes. Ophthalmic Assistant will be supervised by the clinical supervisor and managed by the Manager overseeing the Practice. He/she will report directly to the Clinical Supervisor or directly to the Manager/ in the absence of Clinical Supervisor for assistance/questions/concerns/issues regarding responsibilities.
Responsibilities:
• Patient Care - Escort patients into exam room and perform initial evaluation, including chief complaint, medical and ophthalmic history, visual acuity and refraction, evaluation of pupils, tonometry, slit lamp examination for chamber depth and rubeosis, and tonometry.• Perform diagnostic tests that may be required depending on the clinical situation, including keratometry, IOL measurements, corneal topography, pachymetry, optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual fields and retinal photography.• Prepare all necessary forms needed to obtain patient consent. • Organize instruments and supplies and prepare sterile field.• Cleans room • Sets up room for and assists with laser procedures, surgical procedures and intraocular procedures.• Monitor patient flow.• Transcribe for physician, when available.• Patient education.• Maintain mandatory education compliance.• Monitor patient flow. Direct physician to the next appropriate room.• Give reports to optometrists' and other physicians' offices when appropriate.• assist in screening patients' telephone calls and "walk-ins". Answer patient's questions and concerns as appropriate. Consults with provider as indicated.• Monitor and restock inventory of clinical and medical supplies.
Other Information:
Competencies and Skills
  • Demonstrates Adaptability: Learns quickly when facing a new problem or unfamiliar task; is flexible in their approach with changing priorities and ambiguity. Manages change effectively and does not give up during adversity. Capable of changing one's behavioral style and/or views in order to attain a goal. Absorbs new information readily and puts it into practice effectively.
  • Demonstrates Emotional Intelligence: Exhibits a high level of self-awareness, self-management, other awareness and relationship management. Conducts themselves in an empathic, appropriate way, with a sense of humor and stimulates a collaborative work environment. Is respectful of the attitudes, feelings, or circumstances of others and aware of the influence of their own behavior on them. Is aware of relevant social, political, system, and professional trends and developments and uses this information for the organization's benefit.
  • Effectively Communicates: Listens, speaks and writes appropriately, using clear language. Communication methods are fitting to the message(s), audience, and situation and follow-ups are regular and timely. Shows that important (non-) verbal information is absorbed and understood and asks further questions to clarify when necessary. Expresses ideas and views clearly to others and has ability to adjust use of language to the audiences' level.
  • Serves Others: Strives to understand, meet and exceed the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers which may include the people and communities in our service areas. Develops and maintains relationships, alliances and coalitions within and outside the organization and leverages them in order to obtain information, support, and promote cooperation and collaboration.
  • Behaves with Integrity and Builds Trust: Acts consistently in line with the core values, commitments and rules of conduct. Leads by example and tells the truth. Does what they say they will, when and how they say they will, or communicates an alternate plan.
  • Cultivates Respect: Treats others fairly, embraces and values differences, and contributes to a culture of belonging, empowerment, and cooperation.
  • Fosters Accountability: Creates and participates in a work environment where people hold themselves and others accountable for processes, results and behaviors. Takes appropriate ownership not only of successes but also mistakes and works to correct them in a timely manner. Demonstrates understanding that we all work as a team and the quality and timeliness of work impacts everyone involved.
  • Practices Compassion: Exhibits genuine care for people and is available and ready to help; displays a deep awareness of and strong willingness to relieve the suffering of others.

Education
  • Required High School Diploma/General Educational Development (GED)

Working Conditions
  • Potential exposure to diseases or infections.
  • Potential exposure to hazardous materials.
  • Potential exposure to noise levels being uncomfortable.
  • Work beyond the regularly scheduled hours.
  • Potential exposure to very hot or cold temperatures.

Northern Light AR Gould Hospital is an acute care hospital located near the Canadian border in Presque Isle, Maine. This is the largest city and economic hub of Aroostook County - Maine's northernmost county, with a geographic area larger than the states of Maryland and Rhode Island combined. When you're not enjoying year-round outdoor activities, you will be working with supportive colleagues in a facility that offers a surprising range of comprehensive services given its rural location.
AR Gould provides emergency, primary, and specialty care. In addition to traditional acute care, our inpatient units also include acute rehabilitation and a women and children's unit. It is the only healthcare facility in the region to offer certain life-saving specialty services, such as radiation therapy, a cardiac catheterization lab, and a dialysis center.
The hospital is a member of Northern Light Health, an integrated statewide health system that is raising the bar with no-nonsense solutions that are leading the way to a healthier future for our state.
The University of Maine at Presque Isle, Northern Maine Community College, the Maine School of Science and Mathematics magnet school, and quality local public schools all provide opportunities for academic enrichment. Lakes, rivers, and woodlands are legendary and well-known to hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreationalists. The local airport provides daily, year-round service between Presque Isle International Airport (PQI) and Boston Logan International Airport.
Questions? Contact Talent Acquisition:
phone: 207-973-7100
email: talentacquisition@northernlight.org
ARG, Presque Isle, Aroostook County, Maine, TAMC, Northern Maine, Rural Health Care

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