New

Ophthalmic Assistant

Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary - MEI
United States, Massachusetts, Stoneham
Feb 11, 2026
Under the direct supervision of the licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) performs a wide range of clinical and administrative tasks to facilitate the delivery of eye care in an outpatient clinic and/or in procedural areas. Does this position require Patient Care? Yes Essential Functions -Performs a wide range of vision and ocular testing, imaging, and assessments to prepare patients for a comprehensive eye exam with the licensed clinician. -Proper identification and instillation of diagnostic eye drops for patients as part of the routine eye exam and as directed by the clinician. -Under the supervision and direction of the ophthalmologist, sets up and assists in minor office procedures, including but not limited to medical lasers, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures. -Measure and record vital signs as instructed for procedures and other purposes. -Maintains adequate medical/ophthalmic supplies in exam rooms and clinical areas. -Cleans, calibrates, and performs basic maintenance on ophthalmic equipment/machines in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and hospital infection control standards. -Properly handles, stores, and transports specimens, instruments, and medications. -Performs administrative tasks, including triaging patient calls and in-basket management if assigned. -Provides cross coverage to other services/locations in the ophthalmology department as needed. -Complies with all hospital policies, federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and adheres to JCAHO standards. Education High School Diploma or Equivalent required Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? No Licenses and Credentials Certified Ophthalmic Assistant [COA] - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) preferred Experience Minimum of 6 months of experience working in a supervised ophthalmology clinic 0-1 year required or Completion of the International Council of Accreditation (ICA) training program at the Assistant level 0-1 year required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Basic knowledge of ocular terminology, anatomy, and physiology of the eye, ocular diseases and disorders, ophthalmic procedures, and pharmacology. Proficient in interpersonal and customer service skills to effectively work with patients and families. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to the patients' age, mental and physical needs. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to prioritize and adapt to changes in fast-paced, high-volume clinics. Ability to work independently and effectively with members of the care team. Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to make decisions based on the role's scope of practice Proficient with computers and Microsoft Office Suite. Physical Requirements Standing Frequently (34-66%) Walking Frequently (34-66%) Sitting Occasionally (3-33%) Lifting Frequently (34-66%) 35lbs+ (w/assisted device) Carrying Frequently (34-66%) 20lbs - 35lbs Pushing Occasionally (3-33%) Pulling Occasionally (3-33%) Climbing Rarely (Less than 2%) Balancing Frequently (34-66%) Stooping Occasionally (3-33%) Kneeling Occasionally (3-33%) Crouching Occasionally (3-33%) Crawling Rarely (Less than 2%) Reaching Frequently (34-66%) Gross Manipulation (Handling) Frequently (34-66%) Fine Manipulation (Fingering) Frequently (34-66%) Feeling Constantly (67-100%) Foot Use Rarely (Less than 2%) Vision - Far Constantly (67-100%) Vision - Near Constantly (67-100%) Talking Constantly (67-100%) Hearing Constantly (67-100%) Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.