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Ophthalmology Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ophthalmic Tech

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Responsible for providing assistance to the Eye Center staff and Ophthalmology residents. Education Trade School Graduate- Ophthalmic Technologist Certification/Licensure Basic Life Support (BLS ...

Responsible for providing assistance to the Eye Center staff and Ophthalmology residents. Education Trade School Graduate- Ophthalmic Technologist Certification/Licensure Basic Life Support (BLS ...

Ophthalmic Tech

Norfolk, VA

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Responsible for providing assistance to the Eye Center staff and Ophthalmology residents. Education Trade School Graduate- Ophthalmic Technologist Certification/Licensure Basic Life Support (BLS ...

Effectively utilizes technology to increase efficiency including all equipment, Group Management ... High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred) Experience * 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office ...

New

About Us Established, respected practice with 3 Ophthalmologists (2 general, 1 glaucoma specialist) and 5 Optometrists State-of-the-art technology and well-trained staff Most surgeries performed in a ...

About Us Established, respected practice with 3 Ophthalmologists (2 general, 1 glaucoma specialist) and 5 Optometrists State-of-the-art technology and well-trained staff Most surgeries performed in a ...

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Ophthalmology Tech information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do ophthalmology tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmology tech in Virginia is $22.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Ophthalmology Tech, you need a solid grasp of ocular anatomy, basic clinical procedures, and a high school diploma or associate degree, often supplemented by Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification. Familiarity with ophthalmic instruments, diagnostic imaging systems, and electronic medical records is typically required. Strong attention to detail, patient communication, and teamwork skills distinguish top performers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for accurate diagnostics, patient safety, and effective support of ophthalmologists in a clinical environment.

What are ophthalmology techs?

Ophthalmology techs, also known as ophthalmic technicians or technologists, are healthcare professionals who assist ophthalmologists in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and disorders. They perform a variety of tasks, such as taking patient histories, conducting vision tests, administering eye medications, and operating specialized ophthalmic equipment. Their role is essential for ensuring accurate assessments and efficient patient care in eye clinics and hospitals.

What are some typical challenges faced by Ophthalmology Technicians in a clinical setting?

Ophthalmology Technicians often encounter challenges such as managing a fast-paced workflow, adapting to rapidly changing technology, and ensuring accurate patient data collection. Balancing efficiency with providing thorough patient care can be demanding, especially during busy clinic hours. Additionally, technicians must frequently collaborate with ophthalmologists and other staff to coordinate tests and procedures, which requires strong communication and teamwork skills.

What is the difference between Ophthalmology Tech vs Optician?

AspectOphthalmology TechOptician
CredentialsCertified Ophthalmic Technician (COA), certification often requiredCertification not typically required, but some may have ABO certification
Work EnvironmentMedical clinics, eye hospitals, ophthalmology officesOptical stores, eyewear retail outlets, optical departments
Job DutiesAssist ophthalmologists, perform eye tests, prepare patients for examsFabricate, fit, and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses
Industry UsageHealthcare, medical settingsRetail, optical industry

While both roles involve eye care, Ophthalmology Techs work directly in medical settings assisting ophthalmologists with patient exams and procedures, whereas Opticians focus on fitting and dispensing eyewear in retail or optical stores. The roles differ in credentials, work environment, and primary responsibilities, though both contribute to eye health and vision correction.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ophthalmology Tech jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Ophthalmology Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Ophthalmology Tech job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,517 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Location Lead Ophthalmic Tech - Stony Point - Days

VCU Health

Richmond, VA • On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

In collaboration with the Chief Ophthalmic Tech Specialist, the Lead Ophthalmic Tech Specialist provides direction and education to staff at assigned location. Provides operational oversight to the department/business functions of designated location to ensure efficient and effective operations.
Job Description
Essential Job Statements
Under the direction of the attending physician and in collaboration with the Chief Ophthalmic Tech, responsible for All day-to-day operations of outpatient clinic
Responsible for activities at assigned location including audits, chart reviews, and other regulatory tasks.
Collaborates with the Chief Ophthalmic Tech for the employee lifecycle which includes interviewing new employees and making hiring decisions; training, coaching and mentoring new hires regarding their responsibilities; writing and conducting performance evaluations; recommending counseling/corrective action plans with guidance from Chief Ophthalmic Tech, Senior Manager and HR when necessary.
Organizes and delegates work and assignments to clinical staff (OA, OP, COA, COT, COMT, and CRA) at assigned location to optimize patience care and to ensure that the clinic flow at that location is consistent.
Regularly assign, instruct, and check the work of others; provide feedback on performance; develop staffing schedule and review leave requests
The lead will participate in the orientation, training, and education of new team members and ensure compliance with required certifications in a timely manner.
Serves as a point of contact for resolving issues for other Lead Ophthalmic Tech Specialists and their location when needed.
Initiate clinic maintenance activities such as evaluating supply inventory, assessing equipment, and equipment maintenance procedures; Responsible for Inventory, stock and order supplies at their assigned location(s)
Maintain a clean environment; coordinates instruments to be sent to Sterile Processing Dept; and maintain and monitor the functioning of equipment
Responsible for addressing safety issues / events and filing a Safe Event if necessary. Identifying potential safety hazards in clinic and beginning the resolution process.
Assisting staff with resolving complaints from patients, families, staff, and physicians and referring any unresolved issues to the Chief Tech Specialist or Business Manager
Working in the clinic when needed because of staff call-outs, shortages, etc.
Other duties as assigned.
Patient Population: Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide equitable care appropriate to the age of the patients served on their assigned unit. Demonstrates knowledge and related competencies of the principles of growth and development of the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age, specific needs and to provide the equitable care needed as described in departmental policies and procedures. Neonates (0-4 weeks), Infant (1-12 months), Pediatrics (1-12 years), Adolescents (13-17 years), Adults (18-64 years), Geriatrics (65 years and older)
Employment Qualifications
Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Licensing/ Certification
Licensure/Certification Required: Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) or Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) certification by Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
Licensure/Certification Preferred: NA
Minimum Qualifications
Years and Type of Required Experience: 5 years of experience as an Ophthalmic Tech.
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Self-starter with a demonstrated ability to learn and apply complex concepts to their daily work.
Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: Candidates must be professional, motivated, dependable, and have strong people skills.
Combination of education and experience in lieu of a degree.
Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. May be exposed to physical altercations and verbal abuse. May be required to use physical restraints. May be exposed to adverse weather conditions; cold, hot, dust, wind, etc.
Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights. May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids. * May be exposed to human blood and other potentially infectious materials. *
May have periods of constant interruptions. Prolonged periods of working alone.
* Individuals in this position are required to exercise universal precautions, use personal protective equipment and devices, and learn the policies concerning infection control.
Physical Requirements
Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (100+ lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (100+ lbs.), Push/ Pull (50-100 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Crawling, Climbing, Balance
Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing
Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards
Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work, Maneuver weight of patients, Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision, Acuity - far, Acuity - near
Hazards: Depth perception, Use of Latex Gloves, Exposure to toxic/caustic/chemicals/detergents, Exposure to moving mechanical parts, Exposure to dust/fumes, Exposure to potential electrical shock, Exposure to x ray/electromagnetic energy, Exposure to high pitched noises,
Gaseous risk exposure
Mental/Sensory - Emotional
Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran

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