Ophthalmic Assistant (FLEX)

Laseagrant; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 29,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks an Ophthalmic Assistant (FLEX) to support optometrists with clinical testing, patient prep, and administrative tasks in a fast-paced eye care setting.

The role includes conducting preliminary eye tests, assisting with examinations, and educating patients on eyewear and lens care. Requires minimum 6 months in ophthalmology/optometry and familiarity with HIPAA and sterile techniques.

Qualifications

• Six (6) months of work experience in ophthalmology or optometry.
• Knowledge of eye anatomy, vision conditions, and clinical terminology.
• Familiarity with HIPAA and infection control procedures.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients, obtain medical history, and document symptoms.
• Measure visual acuity with standard charts and testing methods.
• Perform autorefraction, keratometry, tonometry, and visual field screening.
• Assist optometrists during examinations and procedures.
• Support contact lens fittings and teach insertion/removal.
• Educate patients on exam procedures, lens care, and eyewear options.
• Prepare exam rooms and maintain equipment with sterile protocols.
• Enter accurate clinical data into the EHR and manage inventories.

Skills

Eye anatomy

Ocular pathology

Ophthalmic terminology

HIPAA compliance

EHR proficiency

Attention to detail

Customer service

Clinical data entry

Decision making

Fast-paced environment

Education

Associate degree or optometric certification

Job description

Ophthalmic Assistant (FLEX)

Job Summary

Supports optometrists by performing clinical, technical, and administrative tasks that ensure efficient patient care and smooth workflow in an eye care practice. Includes conducting preliminary eye tests, preparing patients for exams, operating basic diagnostic equipment, and assisting with optical services.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Clinical Testing & Patient Support
  • Greet patients, obtain medical history, and document symptoms and concerns.
  • Measure visual acuity using standardized charts and testing methods.
  • Perform preliminary tests such as autorefraction, keratometry, tonometry, and visual field screening.
  • Assist optometrists during examinations and procedures as needed.
  • Support contact lens fittings, including teaching insertion and removal techniques.
  • Educate patients on exam procedures, contact lens care, and eyewear options.
• Clinical Operations & Data Management
  • Prepare exam rooms, clean and maintain equipment, and ensure proper sterilization protocols.
  • Enter accurate clinical data into the electronic health record (EHR).
  • Maintain inventory of diagnostic tools, supplies, and contact lenses.
  • Ensure compliance with HIPAA, safety, and infection control procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Six (6) months of work experience performing basic ophthalmology or optometry.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree as a health assistant or optometric technician certification.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of eye anatomy, vision conditions, and clinical terminology.
• Knowledge of ocular pathology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Knowledge of standard ocular examination techniques.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to perform clinical tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Knowledge and skill of aseptic and sterilization techniques.
• Knowledge of infection control measures.
• Ability to use computers and electronic medical records (EHR) systems.
• Ability to make decisions based on urgency of the situation and in accordance with work procedures and clinic policies.
• Detail oriented, patient focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Appointment Information

McKinley Health Center aims to provide high-quality ambulatory healthcare and health education to students and medical expertise to University leadership. The Center is also accredited through the Accreditation Associate for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Employees at MHC are required to provide proof of certain immunizations according to recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) guidelines.

Our staff works on campus with an academically talented and diverse student population representing a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, including international students.

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4047 - Ophthalmic Assistant position, appointed on a 9-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/5/2026. The starting wage for this position is $23 hourly.8:30-5pm, M-F

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx .

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on 9/25/2026. For further information about this specific position, please contact Sean Wilson at [e-mail]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first‑generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits . This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal , or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [e-mail] .

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