Certified Ophthalmic Assistant- Lexington

Mass General Brigham; Lexington (MA); On-site; USD 59,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

Mass General Brigham is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) to support comprehensive eye care in an outpatient clinic. Under licensed clinician supervision, you will perform ophthalmic tests, assist with procedures, and handle administrative tasks, contributing to an efficient patient experience.

The role requires a COA certification, a minimum of 6 months ophthalmology clinic experience or ICA training, and proficiency with ocular terminology.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• COA certification (JCAHPO) required.
• Minimum 6 months ophthalmology clinic experience or ICA training completed.
• Foundational knowledge of ocular terminology and eye anatomy.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ophthalmic tests, imaging, and assessments for exams.
• Administer diagnostic ophthalmic medications and eye drops as directed.
• Assist with minor ophthalmic procedures under supervision.
• Record vital signs and document clinical data.
• Maintain exam rooms and ophthalmic equipment per protocols.
• Support administrative tasks like patient triage and in-basket management.

Skills

Ophthalmic testing

Patient care

Interpersonal communication

Multitasking

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Site: Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary

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

Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) supports the delivery of comprehensive eye care in an outpatient clinic and/or procedural setting. This role combines hands‑on patient care, diagnostic testing, clinical support, and administrative responsibilities to help ensure an efficient and positive patient experience.

Essential Functions

• Conducts a variety of vision and ocular tests, imaging studies, and assessments to prepare patients for comprehensive eye examinations.
• Identifies and administers diagnostic ophthalmic medications and eye drops in accordance with established protocols and clinician direction.
• Prepares for and assists with minor ophthalmic procedures, including medical laser treatments, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures, under the supervision of an ophthalmologist.
• Obtains and documents vital signs as needed for procedures and other clinical purposes.
• Ensures exam rooms and clinical areas are appropriately stocked with necessary medical and ophthalmic supplies.
• Cleans, calibrates, and performs routine maintenance on ophthalmic equipment in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and hospital infection control standards.
• Handles, stores, and transports specimens, instruments, and medications in accordance with established safety and clinical protocols.
• Supports administrative functions such as patient call triage and in‑basket management, as assigned.
• Provides coverage across ophthalmology services and locations as needed to support department operations.
• Follows hospital policies and applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as Joint Commission and other applicable standards.

Qualifications

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) required

Experience

• Minimum of 6 months of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic or completion of the International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program required

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Foundational knowledge of ocular terminology, eye anatomy and physiology, common ocular diseases and disorders, ophthalmic procedures, and pharmacology.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with patients, families, and members of the care team.
• Ability to provide age‑appropriate care and adapt communication and support to meet patients’ individual needs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt effectively in a fast‑paced, high‑volume clinical environment.
• Comfortable working independently while collaborating effectively with physicians and other members of the care team.
• Strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to make appropriate decisions within the scope of practice.
• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office Suite.

Additional Job Details (if Applicable)

Remote Type

Onsite

Work Location

110 Hartwell Ave

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Employee Type

Regular

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Pay Range

$28.40 - $42.83/Hourly

Grade

4

At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.

EEO Statement

5110 Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran’s Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.

Mass General Brigham Competency Framework

At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership “looks like” by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People‑Focused, half Performance‑Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.