Optometric Assistant II

This position supports eye care services to patients of all ages. It requires and develops skills as an optometry assistant, including optical and imaging duties through on-the-job and self-training modules. Customer service, attention to detail, clear communication, and timely documentation are essential. This is a career ladder position with four levels designed to provide progressively more technical and independent work experiences. Promotion between job levels is based on performance, skill acquisition, required certifications, and demonstrated ability to handle duties requiring progressively more responsibility.

About the Organization

SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium serving the health interests of residents of Southeast Alaska. Employees are seen as the strongest assets, with a priority on their development and professional advancement. Working at SEARHC is more than a job—it’s a fulfilling career.

Responsibilities

• Optometry Assistant: Room and screen patients for providers, perform optical and point-of-care lab testing, and accurately document in a timely manner.
• Optical: Assist patients with optical orders, including benefits verification, frame selection, measurements, order entry, payment collection, order verification, dispensing (glasses and contacts), adjustments, repairs, and warranty replacements. Manage inventory, including ordering, cleaning, returns, and frame placement. Assist with invoice approval and reconciliation for timely payment.
• Imaging: Acquire ocular imaging (photos, ocular coherence tomography, visual fields, topography) and enter images into the medical record for provider review.
• Administrative Support: Assist with triage, tracking, and scheduling of referred, recalled, or diabetic patients. Handle phones, direct/answer patient questions, and manage paperwork. Work with Referral Care Coordinators, providers, and clinics to facilitate patient referrals. Order and maintain office and medical supplies.
• Other Functions: Maintain patient confidentiality. Collaborate to meet patient needs and organizational goals. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• BLS certification at hire or within 3 months of hire.
• Certified Paraoptometric Certification (CPO) from the American Optometric Association.
• Register as a Dispensing Optician Apprentice within 3 months of hire.
• Clinical Competency required within 3 months of hire and every three years.
• 2 years of Medical Assistant or CNA experience can substitute for CPO (CPO required within a year of hire).
• Knowledge of medical and ophthalmic terminology.
• Demonstrated use of customer service, safety, and infection control principles.

Skills

• Customer service, time management, and organization.
• Computer proficiency with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Ability to multi-task and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to learn and maintain optometry assistant competencies.
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills to maintain good working relations.
• Fine detail manual dexterity for eyeglass repairs.

Other Qualifications

• Required to accompany optometrist on field trips, 3–6 weeks per year.

Pay

$25.00 – $31.88 per hour

Schedule

OT 8/40 (overtime, 40 hours per week)

Benefits

• Retirement benefits.
• Paid time off.
• Paid parental leave.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability.