Ophthalmic Technician- Work on Site Madison, WI

MERIT CRO, Inc.•Madison, WI

16h•Onsite

About The Position

MERIT CRO, Inc. is seeking a full-time Ophthalmic Technician to work on-site in their Madison, WI location. This role supports preclinical ophthalmic research by collecting, reviewing, and supporting the analysis of ophthalmic data from laboratory animals. The position is a multi-level role, with candidates hired at the appropriate level (Associate through Technician III) based on education, experience, and demonstrated technical independence. MERIT CRO, Inc. is a global clinical trial endpoint expert specializing in multiple therapeutic areas and preclinical research services, committed to making a difference and valuing collaboration, customer focus, diversity, drive, dedication, and creative problem-solving skills.

Requirements

Ability to work effectively in a regulated preclinical research environment.
Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
Ability to follow written procedures, protocols, and SOPs.
Strong interpersonal skills and communication skills.
Ability to work independently with responsibility commensurate with level.
Ability to work on site in Madison, WI.
Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on study timelines and deliverables.
Associate’s degree (or equivalent experience) in a life science or related field; limited ophthalmic or laboratory animal experience (Associate level).
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) with approximately 1–3 years of relevant ophthalmic or laboratory animal experience (Technician I level).
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) with approximately 2–4 years of progressive ophthalmic and laboratory animal experience (Technician II level).
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) with approximately 3–5+ years of advanced ophthalmic and multi‑species laboratory animal experience (Technician III level).
Knowledge of ophthalmic instrumentation and imaging systems used in preclinical research.
Ability to learn new procedures, equipment, and software.
Strong organizational, time‑management, and problem‑solving skills.
Proficiency with standard computer applications and ability to learn study‑specific software.
Professional demeanor and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Must have or obtain a TB test or provide a signed declaration.
Must not have an allergy to any of the research animals that limits the ability to complete the job.
Regularly required to use hands; to touch, finger and grasp, handle or feel, with repetitive motions, and talk or hear.
Frequently required to stand; walk and sit.
Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, stoop, crouch, kneel and climb.
Must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Responsibilities

Perform ophthalmic data collection in laboratory animals in accordance with approved study protocols, amendments, SOPs, and study‑specific procedures.
Support ophthalmic procedures such as pachymetry, electroretinography (ERG), optical coherence tomography (OCT), ophthalmic photography, specular microscopy, and confocal biomicroscope according to training and qualification level.
Review study documentation and follow study‑specific requirements prior to data collection.
Perform data quality control (QC) and basic data review as appropriate to level.
Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment and follow all safety and animal welfare requirements.
Collaborate with internal teams to ensure accurate data capture and study execution.
Independently perform assigned ophthalmic procedures; assist with equipment calibration, maintenance, and SOP updates; troubleshoot routine technical issues (Technician I–II).
Independently execute complex, multi‑modal ophthalmic procedures; prepare and update SOPs; perform preventative equipment maintenance; train and mentor junior staff (Technician III).