Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

North Idaho Eye Institute; Coeur d'Alene (ID); On-site; USD 32,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Optical/Contact lens allowance

Disability Insurance

Tenure Bonuses

Continuing Education Opportunities

Job summary

North Idaho Eye Institute in Coeur d'Alene, ID is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant to join a fast-paced clinical team. You’ll gather patient histories, perform essential tests, document findings, and support physicians to elevate patient care.

Role requires COA certification, prior ophthalmology experience, and the ability to multitask across three locations. Expect comprehensive training and a collaborative environment focused on precision and patient outcomes.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Current COA certification (JCAHPO).
• Prior ophthalmology assistant experience.
• Strong knowledge of ocular anatomy and medical terminology.
• Excellent communication and problem solving skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-moving clinical setting.
• Meticulous attention to detail and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Gather thorough patient histories including ocular and general health, medications, and allergies.
• Perform diagnostic procedures: lensometry, refractometry, tonometry (including tonopen), muscle balance testing, pupil and anterior chamber assessments, visual field testing.
• Accurately record visual acuity and zero in on glasses prescriptions.
• Administer and document OCT, topography, and visual fields.
• Prepare patients for injections and minor surgeries with proper documentation.
• Scribe during exams and enter data into EMR or paper charts with precision.
• Coordinate referrals, outside testing, and lab work.
• Educate patients and assist with medication management, including e-prescriptions.
• Maintain exam room readiness and troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Support telephone triage and ensure smooth patient flow.
• Rotate between three clinical locations and teams as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication

Multitasking

Team-first mindset

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

COA certification (JCAHPO)

Tools

OCT

Topography

Visual fields

EMR systems

Tonopon tonometry

Job description

• Base Pay $23.00 - $29.50 / Hour
• Job Category Staff
• Industry Medical, Ophthalmology, Optometry
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree High school

Description

• Optical/Contact lens allowance
• Disability Insurance
• Tenure Bonuses
• Continuing Education Opportunities

About the Role

We are growing!! Step into a role where precision meets purpose. We’re looking for a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant who’s ready to bring clinical expertise, sharp attention to detail, and a passion for patient care to a fast-paced, collaborative environment. If you thrive on multitasking, love working alongside physicians, and want to make a meaningful impact every day, this opportunity is for you.

What You’ll Do

Your day will be dynamic, hands-on, and deeply rewarding. You’ll be trusted with responsibilities that directly support our physicians and elevate the patient experience:

• Gather thorough patient histories, including ocular and general health, medications, and allergies
• Perform essential diagnostic procedures: lensometry, refractometry, tonometry (including tonopen), muscle balance testing, pupil and anterior chamber assessments, visual field testing, and more
• Accurately record visual acuity and neutralize glasses prescriptions
• Administer and document advanced tests such as OCT, topography, and visual fields
• Prepare patients for injections and minor surgeries, ensuring all documentation and instruments are in order
• Scribe during exams and enter data into EMR or paper charts with precision
• Coordinate referrals, outside testing, and lab work
• Educate patients and assist with medication management, including electronic prescriptions
• Maintain exam room readiness and troubleshoot equipment issues
• Support telephone triage and ensure smooth patient flow
• Rotate between three clinical locations and teams as needed
• Uphold confidentiality and proper handling of protected health information
• Take on additional duties as assigned — flexibility is key

Requirements

What You Bring

We’re looking for someone who’s clinically sharp and personally driven:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Current JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification
• Prior experience as an Ophthalmology Assistant
• Strong understanding of ocular anatomy and medical terminology
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-moving clinical setting
• Professional, friendly demeanor and a team-first mindset
• Meticulous attention to detail and accurate documentation skills

Summary

Why Join Us

This isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to be part of a team that values your expertise, supports your growth, and puts patients first. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals in a setting that’s both challenging and rewarding.

Additional Requirements

• Background check and pre-employment drug screening required
• Flexibility to work across multiple locations is essential