Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant Certified

massgeneralbrigham; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 44,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

Mass General Brigham's Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant to join our surgical team. You will perform pre-operative testing, educate patients, and support ophthalmic procedures under the direction of an ophthalmologist.

The role emphasizes sterile technique, instrument handling, patient safety, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, with a typical 40-hour onsite work week and day shifts.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of ocular terminology, anatomy and pharmacology.
• Experience with sterile technique and instrument sterilization.
• Effective communication with patients, families and care teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-operative testing and prepare patients for surgery.
• Provide pre- and post-operative education to patients.
• Identify and administer ophthalmic medications as directed.
• Set up operating room and assist surgeon during procedures.
• Handle, clean, and sterilize surgical instruments.
• Support safe case flow and maintain patient privacy.

Skills

Ophthalmic terminology

Infection prevention

Patient care

Communication

Sterilization

Education

High School Diploma

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 direction of an ophthalmologist, the Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant works closely with the surgical team to provide high-quality perioperative patient care and support ophthalmic procedures. This role combines direct patient care, surgical support, ophthalmic testing, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary care team.

Does this position require Patient Care?

Yes

Essential Functions

• Perform pre-operative testing and prepare patients for surgery, including positioning and ensuring they are comfortable and ready for their procedure.
• Provide pre- and post-operative education to patients, helping them understand their care and what to expect throughout the surgical process.
• Identify and administer ophthalmic medications and eye drops as directed by the surgeon.
• Partner with the surgical team to prepare for procedures by setting up the operating room, calibrating and checking equipment, gathering supplies and instruments, and preparing the sterile field using aseptic technique in accordance with hospital infection control guidelines.
• Support the surgeon throughout ophthalmic procedures by anticipating clinical needs, operating necessary equipment, and providing instruments and supplies as appropriate.
• Handle, clean, and sterilize surgical instruments in accordance with hospital protocols and infection control standards.
• Promote patient safety by recognizing and appropriately escalating potential concerns, maintaining patient privacy and confidentiality, and safeguarding patient rights.
• Support efficient surgical case flow by prioritizing responsibilities, completing tasks in a timely manner, promptly communicating concerns, and maintaining strong communication with patients, administrative staff, and members of the care team.
• Perform administrative and operational responsibilities as assigned, including inventory management, triaging patient calls, preparing surgical charts under the direction of the surgeon, and managing in-basket messages.
• Perform a variety of ophthalmic testing and diagnostic imaging consistent with the individual's JCAHPO certification as a COA, COT, or COMT when supporting an outpatient eye clinic.
• Provide cross-coverage across services and locations within the ophthalmology department as needed, offering opportunities to work with a variety of teams and patient populations.
• Follow hospital policies and applicable federal, state, and local regulations, as well as established accreditation and patient safety standards.

Qualifications

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent required

Licenses and Credentials

Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant (OSA) certification through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required

Experience

2-3 years of experience working in a supervised ophthalmology procedural area required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of medical terminology
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of ocular terminology, anatomy and physiology, ocular diseases and disorders, ophthalmic procedures and instrumentation, and ocular pharmacology
• Strong knowledge of infection prevention, aseptic technique, and instrument sterilization practices
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to provide a welcoming and supportive experience for patients and families
• Ability to provide care that is responsive to patients' individual age-related, mental, and physical needs
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to prioritize responsibilities, remain adaptable, and work effectively in fast-paced, high-volume clinical and procedural environments

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

• Remote Type: Onsite
• Work Location: 243-245 Charles Street
• Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
• Employee Type: Regular
• Work Shift: Day (United States of America)
• Pay Range: $31.98 - $50.25/Hourly
• Grade: 5

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 packag