Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

It is the role of this position to support the department's goals and objectives by providing staff guidance. This position provides lead support in the assessment of ophthalmic technical, medical, and ophthalmic assistant personnel. It includes ensuring compliance of hospital policy, monitoring of patient work-up, quality control of diagnostic laboratory data, and the implementation and training of new ophthalmic technologies. This position is responsible for assisting with st3ff assignments within the full scope of clinical functions. It contributes to the planning, recruitment and training of new personnel within the University guidelines. It includes monitoring the facilities for patient and staff safety. It contributes to planning and development of the services provided.

Apply By Date: 1/26/2026 by 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• This position requires COA (Certified Ophthalmic Assistant) certification per department policy.
• High school diploma or equivalent work experience/training
• Several years of experience working in a similar role and field required
• Must be able to establish a good rapport with the parents involved, and to incorporate them in the team effort.
• Must be able to establish a good rapport with the patient as most patients needing testing are applying for careers requiring specific results.
• Skill and knowledge to acquire complete and concise patient history.
• Has ability to recognize and eliminate artifact from data.
• Has knowledge of Proficient with pathology and corresponding visual field defects.
• Perimetry Has knowledge of eye anatomy and physiology. Has knowledge of pathology and corresponding visual field defects.
• Imaging Function Working knowledge of the anterior anatomy of the eye. Visual Electrophysiology Recordings Has knowledge of visual physiology and corresponding electrodiagnostic values. Has knowledge of ocular disease and abnormal electrodiagnostic responses. Is aware of and uses patient safety considerations. Has working knowledge of shielding and filtering requirements. Has ability to recognize and eliminate artifact from data. Obtains patient history, visual acuity, and refraction when indicated.
• Photography Technical ability to apply photographic knowledge and skill with the fundus, and external cameras. Familiar with the anterior and posterior anatomy of the eye. Ability to recognize pathology and document appropriately.
• Refractive Surgery A. Working knowledge of laser calculations, and sterile technique when scrubbing in. B. Patient Work-up * Skill and knowledge to acquire complete and concise patient history. * Ability to perform with skill an accuracy visual function including acuity, lensometry, color vision, color comparison, Stereo acuity, and amsler grid. * Ability to determine and obtain a refraction when indicated. Knowledge of EMR. C. Pre-Op/Surgery Scheduling * Organizational skills required to prepare paperwork for pre-op. * Ability to communicate process to patient clearly and concisely. Knowledge to schedule surgeries in accordance with the UCDMC Surgical Unit guidelines. D. Interpersonal Skills * Ability to maintain a professional mannerism in the workplace. E. Confidentiality * Ability to comply and respect guidelines set regarding patient and work-related confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• University of California Health System Experience
• TECHNICAL PROCEDURES: Visual Electrophysiology, Recordings Perimetry Imaging/Photography, Patient Work-up Pre-op Vision Correction Minor Room OTHER: Customer Service Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Confidentiality, Practice Standards

Key Responsibilities

• 10% - Visual Electrophysiology Recordings and advanced color testing
• 60% - Patient exam work-up/pre-op
• 20% - Perimetry/Imaging/Photography
• 10% - Vision Correction/Minor Room Procedures

Department Overview

The UC Davis Eye Center is an academic/clinical department consisting of approximately 26 clinical and research faculty, 7 optometrists, 16 residents and clinical fellows, 24 volunteer clinical faculty and 120 academic and staff personnel, with an annual budget of $22 million. The Department's goals and objectives are to achieve excellence in patient care, teaching, research and public service. Patient care must receive the highest priority with the best possible service in all areas of Ophthalmologic care. In addition, the teaching of residents, medical students and postgraduate continuing medical education physicians must be facilitated. PhD's and M.O.'s are joined in mutual research efforts to seek new knowledge in the treatment and prevention of blinding eye disease. All of this is accomplished in the best working environment for all employees.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $42.39 - $52.67
• Salary Frequency: Hourly
• Salary Grade: 173
• UC Job Title: HOSP LAB TCHN 2
• UC Job Code: 008975
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): M-F variable 8 hour shift
• Location: Ellison Ambulatory Care Center (HSP098)
• Union Representation: EX-Patient Care Technical
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
• Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Loud noise levels - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

MUST BE ABLE TO TRAVEL TO ANY ONE OF THE EYE CENTER LOCATIONS BASED ON CLINICAL NEED.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
• This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks