Ophthalmic Assistant Certified

Partner's Healthcare; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, part of Mass General Brigham, is hiring a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) to support outpatient ophthalmology clinics. Under supervision of a licensed clinician, you will perform clinical testing, document histories, and assist with procedures to ensure efficient patient care.

The role requires COA certification, 0–1 year ophthalmology clinic experience, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or Equivalent required
• COA certification required by JCAHPO
• 0–1 year experience in supervised ophthalmology setting preferred
• Knowledge of ophthalmic terminology and procedures; strong patient communication skills

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive ophthalmic testing, vision assessments, and diagnostic imaging.
• Document patient histories, visual acuities, and clinical measurements.
• Administer ophthalmic medications and eye drops per protocols.
• Assist ophthalmologists with minor procedures (laser, injections, cryotherapy).
• Maintain equipment, infection prevention standards, and inventory of supplies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Patient care

Clinical testing

Documentation

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Microsoft Office

Job description

Site: Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryMass 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) provides clinical and administrative support to facilitate high-quality, efficient patient care in outpatient ophthalmology clinics and procedural areas.

Does this position require Patient Care?

Yes

Essential Functions

• Perform comprehensive ophthalmic testing, vision assessments, and diagnostic imaging to support patient evaluation and treatment.
• Obtain and document accurate patient histories, visual acuities, and other clinical measurements as appropriate.
• Administer diagnostic ophthalmic medications and eye drops as directed and in accordance with established clinical protocols.
• Assist ophthalmologists with minor office-based procedures, including laser treatments, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures.
• Measure, document, and report vital signs as needed for procedures and patient care.
• Prepare patients, examination rooms, and procedural areas for clinical evaluation and treatment.
• Prepare, clean, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance of ophthalmic equipment in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and infection prevention standards.
• Ensure appropriate availability, organization, and inventory of medical and ophthalmic supplies.
• Handle, label, store, and transport specimens, instruments, and medications in accordance with established safety, infection prevention, and regulatory requirements.
• Support clinic operations by assisting with administrative responsibilities, including patient call triage, in-basket management, and other assigned tasks.
• Provide clinical and operational coverage across ophthalmology clinics and locations as needed.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, clinicians, and other members of the care team to support a positive patient experience.
• Document patient care and clinical information accurately and timely in the electronic medical record.
• Adhere to hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local guidelines while maintaining compliance with accreditation and patient safety standards.

Qualifications

• EducationHigh School Diploma or Equivalent required
• Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? No
• Licenses and CredentialsCertified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) - Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required
• ExperienceExperience working in a supervised ophthalmology clinic 0-1 year required or International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program completion required
• Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesKnowledge of ophthalmic terminology, ocular anatomy and physiology, common ocular conditions, ophthalmic procedures, and medications.Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.Ability to provide care to patients across a variety of ages and levels of physical and cognitive ability.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and adapt effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary care team.Sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills within the scope of the role.Proficiency with computers, electronic health records, and Microsoft Office applications.

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

Remote Type OnsiteWork Location 800 Huntington AvenueScheduled Weekly Hours 40Employee Type RegularWork Shift Day (United States of America)Pay Range $28.40 - $42.83/HourlyGrade 4At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization.

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

Mass General Brigham Competency FrameworkAt 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.