Ophthalmic Technician Apprenticeship - Multiple Locations

Ochsner Health•Covington, LA

About The Position

The Ophthalmic Technician Apprentice is a training role in Ochsner's Workforce Development Program designed to prepare individuals to progress into the Ophthalmic Technician position. Under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers and experienced ophthalmic staff, the apprentice participates in a structured program combining formal instruction, clinical rotations, and on-the-job training. The apprentice progressively learns to support ophthalmology clinic operations and provide direct patient care while completing required competencies and learning milestones. The role requires a high school diploma or GED. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association is required, or must be obtained within a defined timeframe following hire according to department standards. The apprentice must obtain Certified Ophthalmology Assistant certification after approximately 1,000 documented training hours and Certified Ophthalmology Technician certification after approximately 2,000 documented training hours. One year of experience in a healthcare, clinical, or patient-facing environment is preferred. This position is based at one of the listed locations: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Covington, or Shreveport. The physical demands are classified as Medium Work, involving exertion of 20 to 50 pounds occasionally, 10 to 25 pounds frequently, and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects. The routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluid, or tissue, and the incumbent is not called upon to perform or assist in emergency care or first aid. There is no occupational risk for communicable disease exposure; however, the healthcare setting may present risk of exposure to hazardous medications or waste, depending on job duties.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association, or obtain it within a defined timeframe following hire per department standards.
Proficiency using computers, software, and web-based applications.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Organizational skills.
Ability to learn and apply ophthalmic clinical procedures and workflows.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with patient privacy requirements.
Willingness and ability to learn in a fast-paced clinical environment under supervision.
Obtain Certified Ophthalmology Assistant certification through EverCheck upon completion of approximately 1,000 documented training hours.
Obtain Certified Ophthalmology Technician certification through EverCheck upon completion of approximately 2,000 documented training hours.

Nice To Haves

One year of experience in a healthcare, clinical, or patient-facing environment.

Responsibilities

Participate in the structured ophthalmic technician apprenticeship or training program, including coursework, clinical rotations, and required on-the-job training hours.
Meet the learning milestones and competency expectations outlined by the apprenticeship program.
Learn and assist with managing patient flow in and out of examination rooms.
Assist in retrieving, preparing, and organizing patient information for provider review.
Learn to prepare patients for examinations, procedures, and provider visits under supervision.
Assist with cleaning, stocking, and maintaining examination rooms, procedure rooms, instruments, and equipment.
Learn to perform basic ophthalmic assessments and preliminary testing appropriate to the apprentice's training level under supervision.
Document patient information in the medical record according to department guidelines and training scope.
Adapt interactions to the specific patient population, including respecting privacy, introducing oneself appropriately, explaining services or procedures, requesting permissions, and adjusting communication style.
Perform other duties as assigned and comply with all policies and standards.
Remain knowledgeable about applicable federal, state, and local laws, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements, and ensure compliance.
Report known or suspected unethical or questionable conduct and patient or employee safety, privacy, or other compliance-related concerns.