Lead Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

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Job Summary Under general supervision, the Lead Certified Ophthalmic Assistant provides clinical leadership and support to the ophthalmic care team. This role helps coordinate daily clinical operations, assigns responsibilities, and supports staff training and development to promote efficient clinic flow and an exceptional patient experience.

The Lead Certified Ophthalmic Assistant performs a variety of advanced clinical and administrative responsibilities to support the delivery of high-quality eye care in an outpatient clinic and/or procedural setting. This position serves as a resource to clinical staff while also providing direct patient care within the scope of practice.

Does this position require Patient Care?

Yes Essential Functions-Coordinates weekly clinical staff assignments and adjusts responsibilities as needed to support efficient clinic flow and patient care.

-Partners with the leadership team to identify opportunities for process improvement, enhance operational efficiency, and improve the experience of both patients and staff.

-Supports the onboarding, training, and ongoing development of clinical staff as directed by the Clinical Manager and/or Director of Clinical Operations.

-Leads team huddles and meetings with clinical support staff as needed to promote communication, collaboration, and effective daily operations.

-Serves as a clinical resource to team members and provides guidance and support as appropriate.

-Ensures ophthalmic equipment is maintained according to manufacturer guidelines; troubleshoots common equipment issues and escalates concerns when appropriate.

-Delegates clinical and administrative tasks to team members based on workflow, patient needs, and individual responsibilities.

-Performs administrative responsibilities, including inventory management, patient call triage, and in-basket management.

-Performs advanced ophthalmic examinations, diagnostic imaging, and testing within the scope of practice of a JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA).

-Supports a positive patient experience by providing professional, compassionate, and patient-centered care.

-Follows all hospital policies and procedures, applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and Joint Commission standards.

Qualifications Education High  School Diploma or Equivalent required

Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?

Yes Licenses and Credentials Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) – Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required

Experience3–5 years of experience working as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) in a supervised clinical setting required3–5 years of experience working in ophthalmology required1–2 years of previous leadership experience preferred

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to support, motivate, and develop clinical staff.

Ability to provide effective training, coaching, and constructive feedback to team members.

Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and members of the care team.

Advanced knowledge of ocular terminology, eye anatomy and physiology, ocular…