Certified medical assistants (CMAs) work with physicians, performing both clinical and administrative duties. From taking patients’ medical histories and scheduling appointments to drawing blood and helping doctors during physical examinations, CMAs play a valuable role in delivering quality care to patients of all ages.
It’s a great time to be looking for CMA jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this position will grow substantially over the next decade. You can find full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, and per diem medical assistant jobs in locations throughout the country on Credenza right now.
Certified Medical Assistant Education and Skills
To obtain medical assistant certification, you’ll need to complete a program that’s accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Such CMA programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and universities and take around two years to complete.
In addition to classroom learning, students will perform an unpaid externship to put their new skills to work in the real world. The final step is passing a med assistant certification exam. You can boost your skills (and, potentially, your salary) by earning a national certified medical assistant (NCMA) certification.
For more insight into the qualifications an employer might require in candidates, check out our certified medical assistant job description.
CMA Resume and Cover Letter
Before you begin your search for medical assistant jobs, make sure to tailor your CMA resume to each job that interests you. For example, if an employer is looking for candidates that can perform “blood glucose testing, monospot, rapid strep and influenza testing, and urinalysis,” ensure your resume mentions your familiarity with those tests.
Use your CMA cover letter to demonstrate the value you’d bring to the team. Give examples of how you’ve used your soft skills like compassion and time-management to ensure patients feel comfortable and receive excellent care.
Interviewing for Certified Medical Assistant Jobs
If you’re like most people, the lead-up to a job interview can be nerve-racking, but it doesn’t have to be. Go over common CMA interview questions to see what you might be asked. Preparing and practicing your answers in advance can help take some of the weight off your shoulders.
Salary and Benefits for a CMA Job
The average medical assistant salary is $46,120 per year, but that number can vary by location, years of experience, facility type, and your level of education. The areas that pay the highest salaries to CMAs include:
For a better idea of CMA jobs’ salary ranges in your area, check out the latest openings on Credenza.
Medical Assistant Specialty Areas
You can narrow your job search if you know what type of workplace environment you'd like to work in. Here are some examples:
Ready to Find CMA Jobs?
Check out all the CMA positions available right now. Want additional options? Credenza can match you with even more healthcare jobs that interest you.
