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Ophthalmology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmology Assistant

New Providence, NJ · On-site

$22.79 - $28.03/hr

Experience with Ophthalmology equipment/instruments preferred. * Experience with Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner, Email/Voice Mail) preferred. * Experience with Standard ...

Experience with Ophthalmology equipment/instruments preferred. * Experience with Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner, Email/Voice Mail) preferred. * Experience with Standard ...

Ophthalmology Assistant

Fair Lawn, NJ · On-site

$22.79 - $28.03/hr

Experience with Ophthalmology equipment/instruments preferred. * Experience with Standard Office Equipment (Phone, Fax, Copy Machine, Scanner, Email/Voice Mail) preferred. * Experience with Standard ...

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We are a state-of-the-art Ophthalmology practice in search of an experienced ophthalmic assistant who is friendly, dependable, and interested in professional development. We have a great team and ...

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Ophthalmology Assistant information

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How much do ophthalmology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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.

How long does it take to become an ophthalmic assistant?

Becoming an ophthalmic assistant typically requires completing a post-secondary certificate or diploma program, which can take from several months up to a year. Some positions may also require on-the-job training or certification in ophthalmic assisting skills and eye care procedures.

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 does an ophthalmology assistant do?

An ophthalmology assistant supports eye care professionals by preparing patients for exams, assisting during procedures, and performing basic diagnostic tests such as visual acuity and intraocular pressure measurements. They often handle patient education, sterilize equipment, and may use tools like slit lamps or tonometers under supervision.

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.

How much does a non-certified ophthalmic assistant make?

Non-certified ophthalmic assistants typically earn between $12 and $16 per hour, depending on experience and location. Certification can lead to higher wages and more job opportunities, but entry-level positions may not require certification initially.

Do you need a degree to be an ophthalmic assistant?

An ophthalmic assistant typically does not need a college degree but must complete specialized training or certification programs. Employers often look for strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with ophthalmic equipment. Certification from organizations like the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) can enhance job prospects.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 50% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,693 per year, or $20 per hour.
Certified Ophthalmology Assistant, Rockland

Certified Ophthalmology Assistant, Rockland

Maine Medical Center

Rockland, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Maine Medical Center rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 1,004 rated hospitals


Job description

Description
Pen Bay Hospital
Nursing/Clinical Support
Req #: 69948
️✨ Now Hiring: Certified Ophthalmology Assistant - Rockland, Maine ✨️
Are you a detail-oriented, patient-focused professional with a passion for eye care? Join our team in Rockland Maine as a Certified Ophthalmology Assistant (COA) and play an essential role in delivering exceptional care to our patients.
What You'll Do:
• ️ Perform patient workups including visual acuity, history, and preliminary testing
• ️ Assist providers with examinations and in-office procedures
• ️ Administer diagnostic testing (OCT, visual fields, tonometry, etc.)
• ️ Educate patients on treatments, medications, and follow-up care
• ️ Document accurately in the electronic medical record
Why Join Us?
Collaborative and supportive clinical team
Opportunity to grow your skills in a specialized field
Make a meaningful impact in patients' vision and quality of life
If you're ready to advance your ophthalmology career in a welcoming coastal community, we'd love to connect!
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
  1. Education: High School diploma or GED preferred.
  2. License/Certifications: Completion of the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel Ophthalmology Certified Ophthalmic Assistant requirements within 24 months of start date required.
  3. Experience: N/A
  4. Additional Skills/Requirements Required: N/A
  5. Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Hiring Scam Alert
MaineHealth will never request financial information during the interview or pre-hiring process. All legitimate communications will come from an email address ending in @mainehealth.org. If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it immediately to [email protected] .
Additional Information
With a career at any of the MaineHealth locations across Maine and New Hampshire, you'll be working with health care professionals that truly value the people around them - both within the walls of the organization and the communities that surround it.
We offer benefits that support an individual's needs for today and flexibility to plan for tomorrow - programs such as paid parental leave, a flexible work policy, student loan assistance, training and education, along with well-being resources for you and your family.
MaineHealth remains focused on investing in our care team and developing an inclusive environment where you can thrive and feel supported to realize your full potential. If you're looking to build a career in a place where people help one another deliver best-in-class care, apply today.
If you have questions about this role, please contact [email protected]

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