Optical Manager

UBMD Physicians Group•Orchard Park, NY

7d•$25 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

As an Optical Shop Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day functions of the optical shop as well as monitor and order inventory. You will be responsible for managing staff, sales, and operations in an optical retail setting. You will ensure customers receive proper eyewear solutions while maintaining efficiency and profitability. As an Optician at Ross Eye Institute, you will play a key role in delivering excellent patient care by guiding patients through frame selection, lens options, and fitting services, working closely with optometrists, ophthalmologists, and the optical team in a high-quality academic/practice environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; completion of an optician-training program or Associate’s degree in opticianry, vision science or related field.
State-licensed optician and/or ABO (American Board of Opticianry) certification (as applicable in New York).
Minimum of 1-2 years of work experience as an optician in a retail or medical/clinical optometry/ophthalmology setting.
Excellent customer service skills: ability to interact warmly and professionally with patients, explaining complex lens/frame options in clear, non-technical terms.
Good manual dexterity and attention to detail for fitting/adjusting eyewear, performing repairs, measuring accurately.
Strong organizational skills: ability to multitask (e.g., patient consultations, order entry, repairs, inventory) in a fast-paced optical environment.
Basic understanding of vision insurance plans, frame allowances, plus ability to explain costs and benefits to patients.
Proficiency in computer systems: order-entry software, point-of-sale, inventory tracking, patient management systems.
Collaborative attitude: ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team (optometrists, ophthalmologists, front-desk/clinical staff) and coordinate optical services accordingly.
Skilled in managing optical personnel, including training, performance evaluation, and customer service excellence.
Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality (HIPAA) and adhering to professional/ethical standards.

Nice To Haves

experience in an optical shop within a vision care or ophthalmology practice is a plus.

Responsibilities

Ensure that all eyewear services meet the quality and aesthetic standards of Ross Eye Institute; maintain a well-organized, attractive optical floor/dispensing area.
Collaborate with optical staff to ensure accurate and timely order entry, communication with lens labs/vendors, inventory management of frames and lens materials, and tracking of special orders or repairs.
Oversee contact lens service, including timely dispensing and billing for soft and specialty contact lenses in collaboration with the contact lens coordinator.
Monitor claim status, follow up on denials, and resolve billing discrepancies.
Hire, train, and supervise opticians and contact lens coordinator.
Create work schedules and manage staffing levels.
Assist in employee performance reviews and provide feedback.
Attends monthly meetings with practice managers to provide updates on optical inventory, revenue performance, and staffing.
Ensure team delivers excellent customer service.
Greet and welcome patients arriving for optical services; assist them in selecting appropriate frames and lenses based on their prescription, lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Interpret patients’ prescriptions from optometrists/ophthalmologists and recommend lens types (single vision, progressive, high index, specialty coatings), safety eyewear, sunglasses, and contact lens accessories as needed.
Adjust, fit and dispense eyewear: take frame measurements (e.g., pupillary distance, segment height), adjust temples, nose pads, ensure proper alignment and comfort, and perform follow-up repairs or adjustments.
Educate patients on proper care, cleaning, and maintenance of their eyewear and lenses.
Utilize optical software (e.g., practice management/EHR systems) to manage orders, billing, and patient records.
Verify patient vision and medical insurance at time of frame purchase.
Review and explain to patient coverage details including allowances, copays, deductibles, payment options, out of pocket costs, and limitations.
Obtain and document prior authorizations when required.
Prepare and submit vision and medical claims in a timely manner.
Ensure proper coding for services, materials (frames, lenses), and procedures.
Collect copayments, deductibles, and balances at time of service.
Process payments (cash, credit, financing) and maintain accurate records.
Balance daily transactions, assist with end-of-day reconciliation, and securely prepare and deposit funds into lockbox at the close of each business day.
Maintain familiarity with the latest lens technologies, frame materials, and optical trends (including high-performance lenses, blue-light filters, specialty coatings) so you can effectively counsel patients in a cutting-edge academic practice.
Uphold patient confidentiality (HIPAA) and maintain high standards of professionalism, appearance, and customer service.
Participate in continuing education and in-house training, support the mission of Ross Eye Institute to perform excellent patient vision care, community/medical education, and promote research.