Certified Ophthalmic Assistant - LEAD

ScionHealth; Watertown (WI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

ScionHealth is seeking an Ophthalmic Technician at Watertown Regional Medical Center. This role involves providing clinical assistance during eye exams, performing vision tests, and administering medications.

Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma, complete an accredited Ophthalmic Technician or Medical Assistant program, and hold COA or COT certification upon hire. This position requires strong communication skills and the ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent with Ophthalmic Technician or Medical Assistant training preferred.
• COA certification or COT required upon hire.
• 1+ years experience in ophthalmology or optometry clinic preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist physicians during eye exams and minor procedures.
• Obtain and document patient medical history.
• Perform diagnostic tests and administer medications.
• Ensure accurate documentation and patient education.

Skills

Knowledge of ophthalmic anatomy

Testing techniques

Eye medications

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Multitasking

Customer service

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent, accredited Ophthalmic Technician or Medical Assistant program

Job description

Be part of Watertown Regional Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in southeastern Wisconsin that consistently earns national awards for its high-quality care from the likes of Becker's Hospital Review, Chartis, Healthgrades, The Leapfrog Group, and parent company ScionHealth. Watertown Regional's exceptional care across multiple specialty services is also reflected in its numerous accreditations and certifications. Join our team and grow your career in a hospital where everyday excellence meets or exceeds expectations.

Job Summary

The Ophthalmic Technician provides clinical assistance to physicians during eye exams and minor procedures. This role includes collecting patient history, performing vision testing, administering eye medications, and conducting specialized ophthalmic imaging and diagnostics. The technician ensures accurate documentation in the medical record, patient education, and efficient patient flow, supporting high-quality eye care in a fast-paced environment.

Essential Functions

• Obtains and documents patient medical and ocular history.
• Performs diagnostic tests such as visual acuity, intraocular pressure, color vision, refraction, and pupil evaluation.
• Administers eye drops or topical medications as directed by the physician.
• Assists with minor in-office procedures and prepares patients for surgery or follow-up care.
• Operates ophthalmic equipment (eg:, autorefractor, OCT, A-scan, visual field analyzers).
• Maintains sterile technique and proper infection control during procedures.
• Documents exam findings and physician assessments accurately in the EHR.
• Provides patient education related to treatments, surgeries, and follow-up care.
• Ensures exam rooms and equipment are clean, stocked, and properly maintained.
• Schedules tests, follow-ups, and referrals per provider instructions.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities / Expectations

• Knowledge of ophthalmic anatomy, testing techniques, and eye medications.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and ophthalmic documentation.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with patients and clinical staff.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a busy outpatient environment.
• Commitment to patient safety, privacy, and excellent customer service.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent, plus completion of an accredited Ophthalmic Technician or Medical Assistant program (preferred).

Licenses / Certifications

• COA – Certified Ophthalmic Assistant or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) upon hire or within facility-specified timeframe (required).

Experience

• 1+ years experience in an ophthalmology or optometry clinic (preferred).