Certified Ophthalmic Assistant
Mass General BrighamAbout the role
Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.
Job Summary
SummaryUnder the direction of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) provides clinical and administrative support to ensure high-quality patient care in a fast-paced outpatient ophthalmology setting. This role performs a variety of ophthalmic procedures, assists with office-based treatments, and helps create an efficient and positive experience for patients and care teams.
Does this position require Patient Care?
Yes
Essential Functions
-Perform a variety of ophthalmic tests, measurements, imaging, and assessments to prepare patients for examination by the licensed clinician.
-Administer diagnostic eye drops in accordance with established protocols and clinician direction.
-Prepare for and assist with office-based procedures, including lasers, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures under the supervision of the ophthalmologist.
-Measure and document vital signs as needed for procedures and patient care.
-Maintain exam rooms and clinical areas by ensuring supplies are stocked and readily available.
-Clean, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on ophthalmic equipment in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and infection prevention standards.
-Handle, store, and transport specimens, instruments, and medications following established safety and regulatory guidelines.
-Support clinic operations by assisting with administrative responsibilities, including patient call triage and in-basket management, as assigned.
-Provide coverage across ophthalmology services and practice locations as needed to support patient care.
-Adhere to all organizational policies, regulatory requirements, accreditation standards, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Qualifications
Education
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?
No
Licenses and Certifications
- Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required
Experience
- Minimum of 6 months of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic required or
- Successful completion of an International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program required
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of ophthalmic terminology, ocular anatomy and physiology, common eye diseases and disorders, ophthalmic procedures, and ophthalmic medications.
- Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
- Ability to deliver care that is appropriate to patients' age, developmental level, and physical and emotional needs.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and adapt in a fast-paced, high-volume clinical environment.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary care team.
- Sound judgment and problem-solving skills within the scope of the role.
- Proficiency with electronic health records, computers, and Microsoft Office application
Additional Job Details (if applicable)
Remote Type
Work Location
Scheduled Weekly Hours
Employee Type
Work Shift
Pay Range
$28.40 - $40.64/HourApply for this role
Generate a tailored application kit with a matched cover letter, interview prep, and CV highlights — in under 60 seconds.
Apply Now →Generate Application KitFree account required — sign up in 30s