Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (NCOA); Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA; Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)

Medical University of South Carolina•Charleston, SC

3d•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.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
No experience needed. On the job training provided
Must obtain COA or COT certification through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) within 12 months of start date.
Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or American Red Cross BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is required.

Responsibilities

Performs a variety of general patient care activities and ophthalmic diagnostic tests and assists ophthalmologists during clinical exams.
Preparing patients for visits, collecting medical histories, performing basic vision screenings, and supporting the clinical team with administrative and procedural tasks to ensure efficient patient care and workflow.
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.
Performs all COA-level functions with increased autonomy and technical proficiency.
Conducts complex diagnostic testing, operates advanced ophthalmic instruments, and may assist with intravitreal injections and post-operative care.
Leads clinical workflow, mentors entry-level staff, and ensures high standards of patient care and clinic readiness.
Serves as a liaison between ophthalmologists and patients, enhancing overall clinic efficiency and experience.