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Ophthalmology Tech Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Ophthalmic Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

Basic Function Under the direction of the Practice Manager and Executive Director for Ophthalmology ... Must be a certified Ophthalmic Tech (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification ...

Howard University

Ophthalmic Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

Basic Function Under the direction of the Practice Manager and Executive Director for Ophthalmology ... Must be a certified Ophthalmic Tech (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification ...

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Ophthalmology Tech information

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How much do ophthalmology tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for ophthalmology tech in Washington is $25.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ophthalmology tech?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ophthalmology tech?

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 some typical challenges faced by ophthalmology techs 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.

How much do ophthalmology techs make?

Ophthalmology technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They perform eye exams, assist ophthalmologists, and may operate diagnostic equipment, often working in clinical or hospital settings.

Is ophthalmology tech a good career?

Ophthalmology technicians assist ophthalmologists with patient exams, equipment, and procedures, often requiring certification or training. The role offers steady employment, opportunities for specialization, and typically involves working in clinical or hospital settings. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in eye health and patient care.

What does an ophthalmology tech do?

An ophthalmology tech assists ophthalmologists by performing eye tests, preparing patients for exams, and operating diagnostic equipment such as slit lamps and autorefractors. They often handle patient records, sterilize instruments, and may need certification or training in ophthalmic procedures. The role requires attention to detail and good communication skills in a clinical setting.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Ophthalmology Tech jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Ophthalmology Tech job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Ophthalmology Tech jobs in WA?

For Ophthalmology Tech jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Ophthalmology Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ophthalmology Tech job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,141 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Ophthalmic Technician Assistant (Ophthalmology)

Columbia, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Universityexternal

$17.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Johns Hopkins University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are seeking an Ophthalmic Technician Assistant who will learn to assist the Ophthalmologist by performing ocular examination and testing and supporting clinical operations.
The Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins University has an exciting opportunity for exceptional candidates to train for a career as an Ophthalmic Technician, no experience required. Start your career in Ophthalmology with one of the leading organizations in delivering state-of-the art eye care, training future healthcare leaders, and conducting cutting-edge research. We have a robust training program that will provide you with a strong foundation to pursue a multitude of career paths beyond Ophthalmic Technician such as Clinic Manager, Ophthalmic Clinic Supervisor, Assistant Administrator, Orthoptist, Optometrist, Marketing, IT, and Research, to name a few. This is also an opportunity for pre-med students to gain clinical experience during their gap year or prior to applying to medical school, as well. No evening or weekend work required. Follow this link to learn more, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/wilmer/education/clinical-training/ophthalmic_technician.html
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
  • Obtain and concisely record an accurate patient history, including chief complaint, past ocular history, family history, systemic illness, medications, allergies and drug reactions, and social history.
  • Perform basic elements of the preliminary eye exam, including visual acuity, color vision testing, lensometry, assessment of pupillary reactions, instillation of eye drops, tonometry, and basic slit lamp exam including evaluation of anterior chamber depth.
  • Perform ancillary testing including operation of various automated and non-automated ophthalmic equipment.
  • Assistant physician chairside as a scribe.

Patient Services
  • Apply proper ocular dressings and shields.
  • Properly assist physically or visually disabled patients.
  • Assist with pre- and post-op care, including possible surgical assisting with outpatient procedures.

Clinical and Instrument Maintenance
  • Perform routine instrument maintenance on all ophthalmic equipment.
  • Stock examination rooms in assigned area and ensure medication expiration dates are current.
  • Disinfect and maintain examination rooms.
  • Possess general medical knowledge, including basic microbial control, ocular anatomy and physiology, systemic diseases, ocular diseases and ocular emergencies.

Maintain current CPR certification.
  • Must complete currently required JHMI courses, and abide by relevant regulations, such as,
  • Self-learning educational packets
  • HIPAA
  • Conflict of Interest
  • Training in software such as EPIC and Forum.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or graduation equivalent
  • Must obtain Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) from Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) within 18 months of start date. CPR certification also required.
  • Additional education may substitute for required experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with ophthalmic and general medical terminology.

Classified Title: Ophthalmic Technician Assistant
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Ophthalmic Technician Assistant (Ophthalmology)
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CD
Starting Salary Range: $17.65 - $31.05 HRLY ($18.41 starting: Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: JH at Columbia Center
Department name: Columbia Practice Oph
Personnel area: School of Medicine

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About Johns Hopkins University

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Gilman believed that teaching and research go hand in hand—that success in one depends on success in the other—and that a modern university must do both well. He also believed that sharing our knowledge and discoveries would help make the world a better place. In 145 years, we haven’t strayed from that vision. This is still a destination for excellent, ambitious scholars and a world leader in teaching and research. Distinguished professors mentor students in the arts and music, humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions. Those same faculty members, along with their colleagues at the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, have made us the nation’s leader in federal research and development funding every year since 1979. That’s a fitting distinction for America’s first research university, a place that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1876

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