Ophthalmic Assistant (FLEX)

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking an Ophthalmic Assistant to support optometrists with clinical, technical, and administrative tasks. The role includes patient greeting, history collection, acuity testing, and preliminary ophthalmic procedures in a fast-paced clinic.

Responsibilities also cover room preparation, equipment sterilization, accurate data entry in EHR, inventory management, and adherence to HIPAA and infection control policies.

Qualifications

• Six months of work experience performing basic ophthalmology or optometry.
• Associate's degree in health assistant or optometric technician certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients and obtain medical history; document symptoms and concerns.
• Measure visual acuity and perform preliminary tests (autorefraction, keratometry, tonometry, visual field).
• Assist optometrists during examinations and procedures.
• Support contact lens fittings and instruct insertion/removal.
• Enter clinical data into EHR and maintain inventory; ensure sterilization and HIPAA compliance.

Skills

Clinical testing

Patient support

Attention to detail

Customer service

Communication

HIPAA compliance

Education

Associate's degree in health assistant or optometric technician certification

Tools

EHR software

Ophthalmic instruments

Job description

Job Summary

Supports optometrists by performing clinical, technical, and administrative tasks that ensure efficient patient care and smooth workflow in an eye care practice.

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. To review the full policy, please click here - Immunizations.

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.

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.

Champaign-Urbana

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].