Ophthalmic Tech Trainee SMH

University of Rochester•City of Rochester, NY

1d•$25 - $33•Onsite

About The Position

The Ophthalmic Tech Trainee performs complex technical assignments involving diagnostic testing and imaging, using judgment and technical knowledge to plan and adapt methods. The role supports physicians and works extensively with patients, providing intermediate to advanced ophthalmic testing and imaging. The technician performs visual acuity testing for newborns, infants, young children, and non-verbal adults; measures prisms and refractive error; checks intraocular pressure; performs basic slit-lamp examinations; and takes external ocular measurements. Additional duties include color vision screening, contact lens insertion and removal instruction and care, and use of the IOL Master to measure ocular parameters. The role also trains other technologists, supports preparation for certifications, may lecture, and helps arrange training and prepare or order study materials. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and one year of closely related clinical experience or training/coursework in optometry, ophthalmology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Basic knowledge of optics, including plus and minus lenses and their use for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
Understanding of presbyopia, its correction, and associated age values.
Intermediate knowledge of ocular pharmacology, including drops and medications used in eye examinations.
Ability to identify the purpose of commonly used ocular medications, proper administration and dosage, duration, common side effects, and hospital shelf-life policy.
Knowledge of common drugs used for ocular diseases such as glaucoma, infections, retinal problems, and steroid use, and understanding of their effects in the eye and systemically.
Certification by the registry of the Joint Commission of Allied Health in Personnel Ophthalmology or another nationally recognized professional certifying body upon hire.
CPR certification within 90 days.

Responsibilities

Perform visual acuity testing in newborns, infants, young children, and non-verbal adults using methods such as HOTV cards.
Measure prisms using a lensometer.
Perform manifest and, when necessary, automated refractions to measure refractive error and obtain best-corrected visual acuity, working with plus and minus cylinders.
Measure intraocular pressure using a tonopen, Goldmann tonometer, or Perkins tonometer.
Perform basic slit-lamp examinations and check anterior chamber depth using a slit lamp.
Take external ocular measurements, including keratometry, exophthalmometry, and levator measurements.
Perform intermediate color vision screening using Ishihara or HRR plates and D-15 color chips.
Insert and remove contact lenses, teach patients insertion and removal techniques and contact lens care, and handle special lenses and medically used contact lenses, including those for keratoconus.
Use the IOL Master to measure axial length, K-readings, and anterior chamber depth.
Train other technologists in required departmental skill sets and help them prepare for certification studies and tests.
Help arrange additional training with qualified personnel or physicians, prepare study materials, and order materials and books for fellow technologists.
May lecture and perform other duties as assigned.