Ophthalmic Apprentice (Training Program)
About The Position
The Ophthalmic Apprentice participates in a structured, multi-phase training program to develop the clinical, technical, and patient-care skills needed for a career in ophthalmology. Training combines classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, and hands-on clinical experience at CEENTA practices. The program begins in January 2027 and progresses from foundational learning at Central Piedmont Central Campus, to combined coursework and clinic experience, and then full clinical immersion with rotations across CEENTA locations. Apprentices work with physicians and experienced technicians and earn hourly pay during clinical training. The role involves learning ophthalmic anatomy and techniques; collecting and documenting patient histories, chief complaints, HPI, and vital signs; preparing and administering medications as directed by providers; conducting preliminary eye examinations and diagnostic imaging; assisting providers; maintaining exam rooms and equipment; and managing scheduling and documentation in the EHR. The role is onsite, including classroom attendance, and may require travel between clinic locations.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Strong interest in healthcare or ophthalmology.
- Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced environment.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality; dependable attendance is required.
- Ability to travel between clinic locations as needed.
- Ability to perform onsite clinical work involving standing, patient interaction, and equipment use.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in a medical office or customer service role is highly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Complete a comprehensive training program in ophthalmic assisting and diagnostic imaging.
- Demonstrate proficiency in applicable anatomy and the knowledge, concepts, and skills taught in each training program.
- Obtain and document patient medical and surgical histories, chief complaint, history of present illness (HPI), and vital signs.
- Prepare and administer medications as directed by the provider.
- Perform preliminary ophthalmic work-ups and eye exams, including visual assessment, pupil assessment, phoropter, tonometry, ocular motility testing, glare testing, refractometry, pachymetry, lensometry, slit lamp examination, Ishihara color plate test, Amsler grid, and Schirmer test.
- Perform visual imaging and diagnostic testing, including visual field testing, keratometry, fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and manual and automated lensometry.
- Assist providers with procedures and patient care.
- Maintain exam rooms, sterilize equipment, and follow OSHA protocols.
- Manage provider and resource schedules and maintain applicable work queues in the EHR system.
- Maintain clinical supplies and inventory.
- Participate in classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, coursework, shadowing, and rotational clinical training across CEENTA locations.
Benefits
- Paid, hands-on clinical training.
- Hourly pay while gaining real-world experience during full clinical immersion.
- Exposure to advanced ophthalmic technology.
- Career pathway into ophthalmic roles.
- Supportive team environment.
- Mentorship and hands-on training.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
