Certified Ophthalmic Assistant I

Medical University of South Carolina • North Charleston, SC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Join the region’s leading ophthalmic care team at the MUSC Health Storm Eye Institute, where innovation meets compassion. We are currently hiring for multiple levels within our ophthalmic team, including Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (NCOA), Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), and Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT). Storm Eye Institute treats adult and pediatric patients across a wide spectrum of conditions—from routine eye exams to highly specialized surgical care. As part of our team, you'll work with a collaborative group of clinicians in a high-impact setting where your skills directly enhance patient outcomes. As a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), you will perform advanced medical history intake and a range of ophthalmic diagnostic tests including visual acuity, color vision, tonometry, and basic slit-lamp exams. You will administer dilation drops, assist with minor in-office procedures, and document clinical findings in the patient’s medical record. Additionally, you will ensure exam rooms are fully prepared, maintain equipment and instruments, and follow infection control and sterilization protocols. You will also provide patient support and help manage clinical communication.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Minimum of 1 year of ophthalmic experience and completion of a certified assistant program or equivalent
• Certification as a COA through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required and must be maintained throughout employment
• Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or American Red Cross BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is required

Responsibilities

• Performs advanced medical history intake and a range of ophthalmic diagnostic tests including visual acuity, color vision, tonometry, and basic slit-lamp exams
• Administers dilation drops, assists with minor in-office procedures, and documents clinical findings in the patient’s medical record
• Ensures exam rooms are fully prepared, maintains equipment and instruments, and follows infection control and sterilization protocols
• Provides patient support and helps manage clinical communication

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED