Ophthalmic Technician

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 59,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard University’s Ophthalmology department seeks a Certified Ophthalmic Technician or COA to provide clinical and administrative support. You will perform eye exams, assist in procedures, and conduct tests while maintaining patient confidentiality and instrument sterilization.

Under supervision, you’ll handle imaging, studies, and documentation, contributing to patient care and research initiatives in a fast-paced clinical setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; two-year ophthalmic assistant program preferred.
• Must hold COT or COA certification through JCAHPO.
• Current BLS certification required.

Responsibilities

• Performs preliminary eye examinations and treatment.
• Takes medical histories, measures visual acuity, ocular motility, confrontation visual field, pupillary exam, slit lamp exam, IOP, refraction, keratometry, lensometry, dilation eye drops.
• Assist ophthalmologist during procedures and minor surgeries.
• Perform diagnostic tests: color vision, B-scan ultrasound, ophthalmic photography, fluorescein angiography, corneal topography, optical tomography.
• Maintains confidentiality of patients, families, and staff.
• Maintains sterilization and autoclaving of instruments.
• Maintains inventory, cleans and stocks examination rooms, calibrates equipment.
• Assists with prescriptions and prior authorization, ensures emergency crash carts stocked.
• Participates in research projects with Ophthalmologist/Residents.
• Promotes customer service and positive working relationships.
• Adheres to HIPAA privacy policies.

Skills

Eye examinations

Medical history taking

Ophthalmic testing

Sterilization & instrument care

Patient communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Two-year ophthalmic assistant program

COT or COA certification (JCAHPO)

Tools

Slit lamp

Autoclave

Ophthalmic imaging equipment

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Basic Function

Under the direction of the Practice Manager and Executive Director for Ophthalmology, the Certified Ophthalmic Technician or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant provides clinical and administrative support to the assigned provider or Ophthalmology Subspecialty Clinic: Glaucoma, Retina, Cornea, Oculoplastic, Corneal, Pediatric, Neuro, and Comprehensive.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Performs preliminary eye examinations and treatment.
• Taking medical histories, measuring visual acuity, ocular motility, confrontation visual field, pupillary exam, slit lamp exam, Intra-ocular pressure, auto/ manual refraction, Keratometry, Lensometry, administering eye drops (dilation), etc.
• Assist the ophthalmologist during procedures and minor surgeries.
• Perform diagnostic and specialized testing: color vision, A&B ultrasound scans, ophthalmic photography, fluorescein angiography, Corneal topography, Optical tomography, etc.
• Maintains confidentiality of patients, families, and staff.
• Maintains the sterilization and autoclaving of instruments used in the Ophthalmology department.
• Maintains inventory supplies, clean/stocks examination rooms, daily/monthly calibration of equipment.
• Assist patients with prescription refills and prior authorization requests.Ensure the emergency crash carts are properly stocked and maintained.
• Participates in research projects and studies with Ophthalmologist/Residents.
• Performs other job-related duties assigned by the supervisor/manager.
• Promotes customer service and maintains a positive working relationship.
• Attends annual and periodic mandatory Compliance Program training.
• Adheres to the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Policies and Procedures.
• The above responsibilities are a general description of the level and nature of the work assigned to this classification and are not to be considered as all-inclusive.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of a two-year certified ophthalmic assistant program preferred. Required Licensure, Certifications, Registrations:
• Must be a certified Ophthalmic Tech (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) required, either a certification from an American Heart Association (AHA) BLS for Healthcare Providers (or AHA recognized equivalent) or an American Red Cross CPR/AED for Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Provider.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Pay Range: $59,090 to $62,400