Ophthalmic Apprentice (48309)

Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A. (CEENTA); Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Hands-on experience

Career pathway

Job summary

CEENTA offers an Ophthalmic Apprentice program in Charlotte, NC starting January 2027. Trainees participate in a multi-phase curriculum combining classroom learning, simulations, and hands-on clinical experience within CEENTA clinics.

You will learn ophthalmic assisting, diagnostic imaging (OCT, fundus photography), and patient care under supervision, with paid, on-site training and a clear pathway into ophthalmic roles across CEENTA locations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in a medical office or customer service role, highly preferred.
• Strong interest in healthcare or ophthalmology.
• Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to travel between clinic locations as needed.

Responsibilities

• Complete a comprehensive training program in ophthalmic assisting and diagnostic imaging
• Collect and document patient histories, chief complaint, HPI, and vital signs
• Perform preliminary eye exams including visual acuity, pupil assessment, and tonometry
• Conduct diagnostic imaging such as OCT, fundus photography, and visual field testing
• Assist providers with procedures and administer medications as directed
• Maintain exam rooms, sterilize equipment, and follow OSHA protocols
• Manage scheduling and documentation within the EHR system
• Maintain clinical supplies and inventory

Skills

Medical office experience

Customer service

Travel between locations

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Program starts January 2027.

Why Join CEENTA?

CEENTA is the premier eye, ear, nose, and throat practice in the Carolinas—known for clinical excellence and patient-centered care. Join a collaborative, mission-driven team where you’ll receive hands‑on training, mentorship, and a clear pathway into a rewarding healthcare career.

Position Summary

The Ophthalmic Apprentice participates in a structured, multi-phase training program designed to develop the clinical, technical, and patient care skills required for a successful career in ophthalmology. This role combines classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, and hands‑on clinical experience within CEENTA’s practices.

• Demonstrate proficiency on the knowledge, concepts, and skills learned in each training program, including:
  • Applicable anatomy
  • Obtain and document past medical and surgical histories, chief complaint, history of present illness (HPI), and vital signs
  • Prepare and administer medications as directed by the Provider
  • Perform visual imaging and diagnostic testing, including but not limited to Visual Field Testing, Keratometry, Fundus Photography, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Manual and Automated Lensometry
  • Perform preliminary ophthalmic work‑up, including Visual Assessment, Pupil Assessment, Phoropter, Tonometry, Ocular Motility Testing, Glare Testing, Refractometry, Pachymetry, Lensometry, Slit Lamp Examination, Ishihara (Color) Plate Test, Amsler Grid, and Schirmer Test
  • Manage provider and resource schedules in the EHR system
  • Maintain applicable work queues in the EHR system

Training Program Overview

Phase 1 – Foundational Learning

Location: Central Piedmont Central Campus

• Build a strong foundation in medical terminology, ophthalmic science, and clinical techniques
• Train in state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and a 15,000 sq. ft. simulation center
• Learn from nationally accredited healthcare faculty

Phase 2 – Classroom + Clinical Integration

Split Time Between

• Ophthalmic Medical Personnel (OMP) coursework to develop advanced skills
• On‑site experience at CEENTA clinics, shadowing professionals and assisting with patient care

Phase 3 – Full Clinical Immersion

• Complete rotational clinical training across CEENTA locations
• Supplement hands‑on experience with OMP online learning
• Work directly with physicians and experienced technicians
• Earn hourly pay while gaining real‑world experience across multiple ophthalmic specialties

Key Responsibilities

• Complete a comprehensive training program in ophthalmic assisting and diagnostic imaging
• Collect and document patient histories, chief complaint, HPI, and vital signs
• Perform preliminary eye exams including visual acuity, pupil assessment, and tonometry
• Conduct diagnostic imaging such as OCT, fundus photography, and visual field testing
• Assist providers with procedures and administer medications as directed
• Maintain exam rooms, sterilize equipment, and follow OSHA protocols
• Manage scheduling and documentation within the EHR system
• Maintain clinical supplies and inventory

Qualifications

What You’ll Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in a medical office or customer service role, highly preferred
• Strong interest in healthcare or ophthalmology
• Ability to learn quickly in a fast‑paced environment
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to travel between clinic locations as needed

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in a medical office or customer service role, highly preferred
• Strong interest in healthcare or ophthalmology
• Ability to learn quickly in a fast‑paced environment
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Ability to travel between clinic locations as needed

What You’ll Gain

• Paid, hands‑on clinical training
• Exposure to advanced ophthalmic technology
• Career pathway into ophthalmic roles
• Supportive team environment

Work Environment & Expectations

• On‑site clinical role and on‑site classroom atendence
• Requires standing, patient interaction, and equipment use
• Consistent, dependable attendance required

Ready to Launch Your Healthcare Career?