Optician

Vision To Learn is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization providing vision screenings, eye exams, and glasses to K–12 students in underserved communities across the U.S. at no cost to them or their families. Using mobile vision clinics—optometric exam rooms on wheels—we bring essential eye care directly to schools and community centers so every child can see clearly and learn confidently.

About the role

Vision To Learn seeks compassionate, mission-driven opticians who want to make a tangible impact on children’s lives. As part of a mobile clinical team, you’ll provide high-quality eye screenings and help deliver glasses to students in underserved communities—removing vision barriers that affect learning and long-term opportunities. Work hours are Monday through Friday with 2-3 Saturdays per year, primarily during school hours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee assigned mobile eye clinic operation
• Conduct eye exam pre-tests, maintain optimal professional standards
• Take measurements, fit and adjust frames for patients according to written optical prescriptions
• Assist patients with frame selections to ensure optimal fit and patient satisfaction
• Complete and prepare daily reports, and meet deadlines
• Make follow-up calls to patient caregivers for feedback
• Conduct vision screenings using a Welch Allyn Spot Check Vision Screener
• Dispense glasses to large groups of student patients
• Study and follow Vision To Learn health and safety protocols
• Maintain optimal driver safety standards when driving, parking, and using the vehicle
• Set up the clinic, monitor and replenish inventory, and ensure all patient and administrative paperwork facilitates an efficient workflow each workday
• Load, secure, inspect, and fuel vehicle as necessary
• Keep vehicle and internal work areas clean and organized at all times
• Additional responsibilities as needed

Requirements

• Optician Diploma; Optician Certification (COA, COT, NCLE, and ABO) preferred but not required
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record and familiarity with greater Iowa area geography and phone GPS; driving transcript must be provided
• Successful track record of working with children and diverse types of people
• Must pass company and applicable background checks (including Department of Justice fingerprinting/LiveScan), child abuse history clearance, TB, and drug test
• Experience using Microsoft Office – Outlook, Excel, Word; ability to quickly learn EHR reporting and project management systems is a plus
• Spanish skills a plus
• Able to lift up to 20 lbs. and to exert well-paced mobility for an 8-hour shift including standing, walking, bending, and squatting

Skills

• Exceptional interpersonal skills when interacting with children, site contacts, patient families, and in all internal/external work interactions
• Desire to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have technical skills
• Desire to be cross-trained to expand your skillset
• Self-starter who is confident to implement Vision To Learn protocols and embrace a remote setting with limited supervision
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills
• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Account

Pay

$20-$25 per hour