Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

The Ophthalmic Assistant supports ophthalmologists in delivering high-quality eye care services. This role involves conducting preliminary eye tests, preparing patients for examinations, assisting during procedures, and maintaining patient records. The Ophthalmic Assistant typically reports to the ophthalmology clinical manager and works closely with other clinical staff. The position requires a strong understanding of eye care procedures and the ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining professionalism

• Prepare patients for eye examinations by explaining procedures and answering questions.

• Perform basic vision tests and measurements, such as visual acuity and refraction.

• Record patient medical histories and visual health information.

• Assist ophthalmologists during eye examinations and treatments.

• Administer eye drops or medications as directed by the ophthalmologist.

• Operate ophthalmic equipment to obtain diagnostic information.

• Teach patients about proper eye care techniques, including the use and care of contact lenses.

• Provide pre- and post-procedure instructions to ensure patient comfort and understanding.

• Address patient concerns and provide reassurance during procedures.

• Assist with patient scheduling, billing, and maintaining medical records.

• Maintain clean and organized examination rooms and sterilize ophthalmic instruments.

• Order and maintain inventory of supplies and equipment.

• Work closely with other clinical staff to ensure efficient patient flow.

• Assist in training new ophthalmic assistants and other staff members.

• Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

• High School Diploma/GED
• At least 1 year(s) of experience in clinical or healthcare setting
• Certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) from the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate

• Associate's Degree
• At least 2 year(s) of experience in Ophthalmic Assistant or in a similar role.
• Certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Medical 

$48,659 + depending on qualifications

• Standard office equipment

• Repetitive use of a keyboard

• May be exposed to such occupational hazards as communicable diseases, blood borne pathogens, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, hazardous medications and disoriented or combative patients, or others.

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

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A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

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Employment Eligibility Verification:

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form.  You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States.  Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment.  Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university’s company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

• E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
• Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.