Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant OR Certified Ophthalmic Assistant OR Certified Ophthalmic Technician - Storm Eye Institute - MUSCP

Job Description Summary

Join the region’s leading ophthalmic care team at the MUSC Health Storm Eye Institute, where innovation meets compassion. We are currently hiring for multiple levels within our ophthalmic team, including Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (NCOA), Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), and Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT).

Storm Eye Institute treats adult and pediatric patients across a wide spectrum of conditions—from routine eye exams to highly specialized surgical care. As part of our team, you'll work with a collaborative group of clinicians in a high-impact setting where your skills directly enhance patient outcomes.

Entity

University Medical Associates (UMA) Only Employees and Financials

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type​

Regular

Cost Center

CC005763 UMA AMB OPHT Clements Ferry Ophthalmology CC

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

Health-20

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Job Description

Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (NCOA):
Performs a variety of general patient care activities and ophthalmic diagnostic tests and assists ophthalmologists during clinical exams. Responsibilities include preparing patients for visits, collecting medical histories, performing basic vision screenings, and supporting the clinical team with administrative and procedural tasks to ensure efficient patient care and workflow.

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA):
Performs advanced medical history intake and a range of ophthalmic diagnostic tests including visual acuity, color vision, tonometry, and basic slit-lamp exams. Administers dilation drops, assists with minor in-office procedures, and documents clinical findings in the patient’s medical record. Ensures exam rooms are fully prepared, maintains equipment and instruments, and follows infection control and sterilization protocols. Provides patient support and helps manage clinical communication.

Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT):
Performs all COA-level functions with increased autonomy and technical proficiency. Conducts complex diagnostic testing, operates advanced ophthalmic instruments, and may assist with intravitreal injections and post-operative care. Leads clinical workflow, mentors entry-level staff, and ensures high standards of patient care and clinic readiness. Serves as a liaison between ophthalmologists and patients, enhancing overall clinic efficiency and experience.

Why Join MUSC Storm Eye Institute?

• Monday–Friday schedule – No weekends, no holidays

• Career growth opportunities within South Carolina’s premier eye care institute

• Access to specialists in glaucoma, retina, cornea, oculoplastics, and pediatric ophthalmology

• Work at a facility that performs 3,500+ surgeries and sees 60,000+ patients annually across multiple locations

Additional Job Description

NCOA Requirements:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED).

• Experience: No experience needed. On the job training provided

• Required Licensure, Certifications, Registrations: Must obtain COA or COT certification through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) within 12 months of start date.

• BLS: Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or American Red Cross BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is required.

COA Requirements:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED).

• Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of ophthalmic experience and completion of a certified assistant program or equivalent.

• Required Licensure, Certifications, Registrations: Certification as a COA through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required and must be maintained throughout employment.

• BLS: Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or American Red Cross BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is required.

COT Requirements:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED).

• Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of specialized ophthalmic experience with completion of a certified technician program.

• Required Licensure, Certifications, Registrations: Certification as a COT through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required and must be maintained throughout employ