Ophthalmic Assistant — Eye Clinic Support & Patient Care

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 68,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego's Department of Ophthalmology is expanding its clinical team at the Shiley Eye Center and regional satellites, supporting patient care through history taking, diagnostic vision tests, and minor in-office procedures. The role emphasizes efficient patient flow and room readiness.

Ideal candidates hold a natural science degree or equivalent, with knowledge of hygiene, infection control, and EMR; willingness to travel, work variable hours, and pass a background check is required.

Qualifications

• Graduation from college with a major in an applicable natural science; or two years of college courses in the natural sciences plus two years of applicable experience.
• Knowledge of laboratory hygiene, biohazard handling, and universal precautions.
• Knowledge of professional dress code.
• Ability to perform tonometry, visual field tests, visual acuity, refractive error measurement, color vision, spectacle measurement, and related tests.
• Ability to take patient history, evaluate problems and document in patient records.
• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with the public and medical personnel.
• Ability to train and educate patients, staff, residents, and students regarding ophthalmology clinic services.
• Ability to sterilize and maintain ophthalmology equipment and supplies.
• Knowledge of ophthalmic diseases and infection control; operate autoclave.

Responsibilities

• Assist physicians with history taking, diagnostic vision tests, and basic procedures.
• Support minor in-office laser procedures and injections.
• Maintain timely and courteous patient flow and organize each examination room.
• Stock examination rooms and ensure supplies are ready for clinic.
• Travel to satellite clinics as needed and work variable hours including Saturdays.

Skills

Patient care

Vision testing

Communication

Sterilization procedures

Training patients & staff

Infection control

Attention to detail

Education

College degree in natural science

Tools

Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

Autoclave operation

Job description

UC San Diego's Department of Ophthalmology is expanding its clinical team at the Shiley Eye Center and regional satellites, supporting patient care through history taking, diagnostic vision tests, and minor in-office procedures. The role emphasizes efficient patient flow and room readiness.

Ideal candidates hold a natural science degree or equivalent, with knowledge of hygiene, infection control, and EMR; willingness to travel, work variable hours, and pass a background check is required.