Optometry Technician

Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health•Rapid City, SD

About The Position

The Optometry Technician supports comprehensive eye care by performing clinical testing, assisting providers, educating patients, and helping maintain efficient clinic operations. The role includes collecting and documenting medical and ocular histories, performing preliminary and specialty testing, preparing patients and exam rooms, assisting during examinations and treatments, and documenting interactions and clinical data in the electronic health record. The technician also supports contact lens services, patient flow, infection control, supply management, outreach, and community vision screenings. The position requires culturally competent communication, adherence to confidentiality and regulatory requirements, participation in training, and reliable attendance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of experience as an optometry or ophthalmology technician.
Must successfully pass a criminal and background check and a pre-employment drug screen.
Must comply with job-related employee health screening and immunization requirements before the first day of employment, including MMR, varicella, hepatitis B, influenza, Tdap, and COVID-19 vaccination.
Ability to perform duties involving prolonged standing, walking, and/or sitting; manual dexterity; lifting, carrying, and moving equipment and supplies within designated weight limits; visual acuity and attention to detail; effective communication; repetitive tasks; adapting to a fast-paced environment with interruptions and task-switching; and use of multiple technology systems.
Ability to interact with diverse patient populations, including people with medical, emotional, or communication challenges, in a respectful and culturally competent manner.
Ability to follow infection-control, safety, and PPE protocols.
Tribal preference laws apply; qualified Indian/Tribal candidates receive preference over qualified non-native candidates when other qualifications are equal.

Nice To Haves

Paraoptometric or Ophthalmic Assistant certification is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Obtain and document medical and ocular history, chief complaint, and medications in the electronic health record.
Perform preliminary and advanced optometric testing, including visual acuity, autorefraction, tonometry, and imaging.
Prepare patients and exam rooms before provider evaluations.
Administer eye drops as directed.
Perform specialty testing, including OCT, visual field testing, and pachymetry.
Assist providers during examinations and treatments.
Educate patients about diagnoses, treatment plans, and medications.
Train patients on contact lens insertion, removal, and care.
Communicate clearly and respectfully with patients to support a positive, culturally competent experience.
Enter and track contact lens orders and coordinate with vendors to address order issues and delays.
Document patient interactions and clinical data in the electronic health record in accordance with legal, regulatory, and billing requirements.
Manage patient flow and room turnover.
Clean and disinfect equipment and exam rooms and follow infection-control and safety protocols.
Monitor and restock supplies.
Support patient education initiatives and participate in outreach events and vision screenings.
Engage in cross-training opportunities.
Adhere to HIPAA, confidentiality standards, policies, and procedures.
Maintain professional communication with patients, coworkers, and external stakeholders.
Participate in required trainings, including Core Connections training, and apply relevant concepts and practices.
Maintain consistent and reliable attendance and arrive on time for scheduled work hours.