Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

CommonSpirit Health; Kirkland (WA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in Washington state is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) to support ophthalmologists and optometrists with advanced testing and thorough patient work-ups.

You will manage patient greetings, histories, vision testing, end-point refractions, and intraocular pressure measurements, while administering medications, educating patients, triaging calls, and scheduling appointments in a dynamic clinical setting.

Qualifications

• COA or COT certification required (JCAHPO).
• Minimum 1 year of experience in optometry/ophthalmology.
• Knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, terminology, sterilization, and eye care.
• Understanding of ophthalmic testing and ophthalmic instruments.
• Basic computer skills and EMR proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients, take histories, and perform vision testing.
• Conduct end-point refractions and measure intraocular pressure.
• Administer medications and educate patients on procedures.
• Triage calls and schedule appointments.

Skills

COA/COT certification

Ophthalmic testing

Refraction testing

Pressure measurements

Medication administration

Patient education

Appointment scheduling

EMR documentation

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Job description

Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), you will provide comprehensive clinical and clerical support to Ophthalmologists/Optometrists, ensuring efficient practice operations. You will directly contribute to patient diagnosis through advanced ophthalmic testing and meticulous patient work-ups.

Every day you will manage patient greetings, histories, and vision testing, skillfully performing end-point refractions, pressure measurements, and a variety of advanced tests. You will also administer medications, educate patients, triage phone calls, and schedule appointments.

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate advanced proficiency in ophthalmic testing and patient support. You will exhibit exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a compassionate, patient-focused approach in a dynamic clinical setting.

Job Requirements

Required

• JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) required.
• 1 year working in an optometry or ophthalmology practice required.

Working knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, and basic eye care. Understanding of ophthalmic testing and the use of ophthalmic instruments and equipment. Basic skills in operating a computer and office equipment.

Strong interpersonal and customer relations skills; strong communication skills and organizational skills required. Ability to makechart documentation with entry into electronic medical record.

Where You'll Work

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. Building upon a legacy of compassionate care and innovation, our organization has evolved over the years through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand our reach and services across the Puget Sound area.

Today, as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we remain deeply committed to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – in the communities we serve. This commitment is strengthened by the diverse expertise and shared values brought together through our growth.

Our dedicated providers offer a full spectrum of health care services, from routine wellness to complex disease management, all grounded in rigorous research and education. Our comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites strategically located across the greater Puget Sound region reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and comprehensive care.

We are proud of our pioneering medical advances and numerous awards and accreditations that reflect our dedication to excellence. When you join Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, you become part of a team that delivers top-quality, professional healthcare in modern, well-equipped facilities, and contributes to a legacy of service built on collaboration and shared purpose.