Advanced Optometry Support Specialist

Kaiser Permanente Northwest; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 41,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Kaiser Permanente Northwest is seeking an ophthalmic assistant to support doctors of optometry in a collaborative clinical setting in Portland. You will assist with patient intake, pre-testing, and coordination of care while ensuring accurate documentation and safe medication administration.

The role requires prior optometric experience or a KP training pathway, strong instrument skills, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years in optometric/ophthalmic practice under supervision, or one year in back-office with KP Optometry training (when available).
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Paroptometric/ophthalmic certificates within 24 months of hire are required (listed options).
• Registered Medical Assistant (WA) within 2 months of hire may be required.
• Demonstrated experience with ophthalmic instruments and testing procedures.

Responsibilities

• Record patient medical and visual history and prepare clinical information for doctors.
• Perform pre-testing and record vitals in EMR; conduct OCT, visual fields, and diabetic photos.
• Instill eye-drops as ordered and assist in therapeutic procedures.
• Manage doctor schedules and patient communications; triage calls.
• Maintain and calibrate ophthalmic instruments and ensure sterility of supplies.
• Coordinate patient care with optical dispensing and KP departments.
• Adhere to KP policies and protect patient confidentiality.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Optometric terminology

Instrument proficiency

Education

Paraoptometric Assistant Cert within 24 months

Certified Ophthalmic Technician within 24 months

Paraoptometric Technician Cert within 24 months

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant within 24 months

Registered Medical Assistant (WA) within 2 months

Tools

Auto-refractor

Auto-lensometer

Non-contact tonometer

Titmus vision tester

Snellen chart

Visual acuity projector

Visual field testing equipment

Job description

Kaiser Permanente Northwest is seeking an ophthalmic assistant to support doctors of optometry in a collaborative clinical setting in Portland. You will assist with patient intake, pre-testing, and coordination of care while ensuring accurate documentation and safe medication administration.

The role requires prior optometric experience or a KP training pathway, strong instrument skills, and excellent communication.