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Certified Ophthalmic Assistant/Technician

  • Syracuse
  • Allied Health
  • Full-time
  • Opening on: Sep 28 2026
  • Nursing-Ophthalmology Amb.Care
  • State of New York
  • TH Instructional Support Assistant, NSSL1
  • 87979
  • UUP (State University Professional Services Unit)

Job Summary:

SUNY Upstate Medical University is seeking a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) to join our Ophthalmology team. In this role, you will support providers and patients through specialized diagnostic testing, patient care activities, and administrative support.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform ophthalmic diagnostic testing, including visual acuity, IOP checks, refraction, keratometry, visual fields, OCTs, corneal topography, ERGs, A-scans, IOL Master testing, and other patient workups.
  • Prepare patients for physician exam, and document clinical information.
  • Assist with patient flow and support clinic operations.
  • Complete chart preparation and assist with referrals, authorizations, and forms.
  • Maintain clinical supplies and equipment.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Minimum one (1) year of experience in a healthcare setting.
  • COA or COT certification required, or ability to obtain COA certification through JCAHPO within 18 months of hire.
  • CPR certification required within six (6) months of appointment if not already certified.
  • Candidates without ophthalmic certification will be hired on a temporary appointment until certification is obtained.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior ophthalmology experience.
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
  • Medical Office Assistant (MOA)

Work Days:

Monday-Friday, varying hours between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM.
No weekends or holidays

Message to Applicants:

At Upstate, you'll work with advanced ophthalmic technology while contributing to our mission of improving the health of the communities we serve. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Salary Range: $48,000-$65,000

Recruitment Office: Human Resources

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status or disability or other protected classes under State and Federal law.

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