Ophthalmic Technician

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 59,090 - 62,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance

Work-Life Balance: PTO and flexible work arrangements

Financial Wellness: Competitive salary and 403(b) with company match

Professional Development: Ongoing training and tuition reimbursement

Additional Perks: Wellness programs and commuter benefits

Job summary

Howard University in Washington, D.C. is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Technician/Assistant to provide clinical and administrative support in the Ophthalmology Subspecialty Clinic. Responsibilities include performing eye examinations, assisting during procedures, and maintaining inventory of medical supplies. Candidates must hold certification as an Ophthalmic Tech or Assistant and have current BLS certification. The expected pay range is $59,090 to $62,400. Howard University offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance and professional development.

Qualifications

• Certified Ophthalmic Tech (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification is required.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is necessary.
• Experience in laboratory procedures and patient care in an ophthalmic setting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform preliminary eye examinations and assist ophthalmologists during procedures.
• Maintain the sterilization and inventory of ophthalmology instruments.
• Ensure proper stocking of emergency crash carts.

Skills

Patient care skills

Technical proficiency in ophthalmic procedures

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Completion of a two-year certified ophthalmic assistant program

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

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.
• Performs 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, cleans/stocks examination rooms, performs daily/monthly calibration of equipment.
• Assist patients with prescription refills and prior authorization requests.
• Ensures 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