Ophthalmic Tech Trainee SMH

This position is based at the University of Rochester's Ophthalmology Eye Clinic (601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, NY 14642). It is a regular, full-time role scheduled for 40 hours per week on the day shift.

Pay

Hourly compensation range: $24.70 – $33.35. Individual rates are set within this range based on market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise, and internal equity.

Schedule

• Full time (40 hours per week)
• Day shift
• Regular (non-temporary) appointment

Responsibilities

• Perform complex technical assignments that are broadly outlined, require theoretical insight and interpretation, and allow latitude for planning and modifying methods and techniques.
• Exercise a high degree of skill, judgment, and understanding of the principles and methodology of the technical field.
• Provide basic, intermediate, and advanced diagnostic testing and imaging.
• Spend the majority of time working with patients and supporting physicians.
• Perform visual acuity testing in newborns, infants, small children, and non-verbal adults using matching methods such as HOTV cards.
• Measure prisms using a lensometer.
• Perform manifest refractions using a phoropter and automated refractions as needed to measure refractive error and obtain best corrected visual acuity; work in both plus and minus cylinders.
• Measure intraocular pressure using a Tono-Pen, Goldmann tonometer, or Perkins tonometer.
• Perform basic slit lamp examination and assess anterior chamber depth via slit lamp.
• Take external ocular measurements including keratometry, exophthalmometry, and levator measurements.
• Complete intermediate color vision screening using Ishihara or HRR plates and D-15 color chips.
• Insert and remove contact lenses or teach patients insertion, removal, and contact lens care.
• Apply intermediate knowledge of contact lens uses for medical conditions including keratoconus; understand insertion, removal, and care of specialty lenses.
• Operate the IOL Master to measure axial length, K-readings, and anterior chamber depth.
• Train other technologists on required skill sets within the department.
• Assist with preparation for certification studies and help technicians prepare for certification exams.
• May be requested to lecture.
• Help set up additional training with qualified personnel or physicians, prepare study materials, and order materials and books for fellow technologists.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent plus 1 year of closely related clinical experience or training/coursework in optometry, ophthalmology, or a related field.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic knowledge of optics including plus and minus lenses and their use with myopic, hyperopic, and astigmatic patients.
• Understanding of presbyopia, its correction, and associated age values.
• Intermediate ocular pharmacology knowledge of drops and medications used for eye examinations.
• Ability to identify the purpose of commonly used medications, including proper administration, dosage, duration, common side effects, and hospital policy on medication shelf life.
• Knowledge of common drugs for ocular diseases such as glaucoma, infections, retinal problems, and steroid use.
• Understanding of how these medications work both within the eye and systemically.

Licenses & Certifications

• Certification by the registry of the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) or other nationally recognized professional certifying body required upon hire.
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification required within 90 days of hire.