Ophthalmology Health Technician

Quick Facts

• Role: Health Technician (Ophthalmology)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm

Description

Support ophthalmologists by performing patient intake and clinical assessments, conducting standard ophthalmic diagnostic testing, assisting with clinic-based surgical procedures, and providing patient education and follow-up. Perform advanced measurements and preliminary evaluations (e.g., visual acuity, visual fields, color vision, intraocular pressure, automated refraction, slit lamp findings), and document and communicate results in the electronic health record.

Responsibilities

• Conduct patient intake: review ocular/systemic history, medications (including topical/systemic eye-related drugs), allergies, family history, and relevant social history

• Document findings in the electronic health record and communicate key information to the supervising ophthalmologist

• Perform ophthalmic diagnostic testing (visual acuity with charts, visual field testing, color vision screening)

• Measure intraocular pressure and calibrate/maintain reliable measurements

• Perform automated refraction for refractive estimates

• Prepare and operate specialized ophthalmic equipment; ensure correct patient positioning and image quality

• Perform preliminary slit lamp evaluation and instill dilating agents for fundus exams

• Screen spectacle prescriptions via automated lensometry and document current correction

• Conduct appropriate advanced tests (pachymetry, stereoacuity, glare testing, potential acuity, tear production)

• Provide patient education at an appropriate health literacy level and document educational interventions

• Assist with orientation and instruction of medical students/residents in ophthalmology techniques (where training programs exist)

Requirements

• U.S. citizen

• Written and spoken English proficiency

• Certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) from JCAHPO (unless eligible for VA grandfathering)

• Qualifying experience and/or education in a healthcare field (as specified)

• Complete pre-employment processes: background/security investigation, onboarding, and pre-employment physical

• Seasonal influenza vaccination required

• Selective Service registration required for eligible males

• Complete a 1–2 year trial period for continued employment eligibility

Benefits

• Competitive salary and regular salary increases

• Paid time off: 37–50 days of annual paid time off per year (annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays)

• Parental leave: up to 12 weeks paid parental leave after 12 months of employment

• Child care subsidy: possible eligibility after 60 days for qualifying families

• Retirement: federal pension and federal 401K (with up to 5% employer contributions)

• Insurance: federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care options (many programs may be carried into retirement)

• Telework: not available