Ophthalmic Technician

Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for an Ophthalmic Technician to join their team. This exciting role offers a comprehensive training program, perfect for anyone interested in starting a career in ophthalmology. You will provide essential clinical support to physicians while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment. The position is ideal for pre-med students or those looking to advance in the healthcare field. Enjoy a structured schedule with no evening or weekend work, and become part of a leading organization dedicated to eye care and research.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Certification as COA must be obtained within 18 months.

Responsibilities

• Record patient history and perform visual acuity tests.
• Manage clinical equipment and maintain examination rooms.
• Assist with prior authorizations and patient inquiries.

Skills

Patient History Recording

Visual Acuity Measurement

Tonometry

OCT Measurements

Clinical Equipment Maintenance

Epic System Management

General Medical Knowledge

Education

High School Diploma

Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

Tools

Epic

Slit Lamp

OCT

Job description

We are seeking an Ophthalmic Technician whose primary role is to provide technician/clinical support to physicians. This position will be required to work at any of Wilmer’s locations based on clinic needs, and travel is required.

The Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins University offers an exciting opportunity for candidates to train as an Ophthalmic Technician, with no prior experience required. Start your career in ophthalmology with a leading organization dedicated to delivering state-of-the-art eye care, training future healthcare leaders, and conducting cutting-edge research. Our comprehensive training program provides a strong foundation for various career paths beyond the technician role, including Clinic Manager, Ophthalmic Clinic Supervisor, Assistant Administrator, Orthoptist, Optometrist, and roles in Marketing, IT, and Research. This position is also ideal for pre-med students seeking clinical experience during their gap year or before applying to medical school. No evening or weekend work is required.

Follow this link to learn more: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/wilmer/education/clinical-training/ophthalmic_technician.html

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

Clinical

1. Record patient history, including chief complaint, ocular history, past surgeries, medical conditions, medications, allergies, learning assessments, falls risk, and family history.
2. Check pupil response to light and afferent pupillary defect.
3. Measure central visual field using Amsler Grid.
4. Instill eye drops under physician supervision.
5. Measure and record visual acuity (distance and near).
6. Measure intraocular pressure using appropriate tonometry methods.
7. Perform Humphrey visual field testing and refer patients for further testing as needed.
8. Perform OCT, IOL Master measurements, refractions, and Pentacam measurements.
9. Test color vision and depth perception.
10. Screen for ocular motility disorders.
11. Use slit lamp to examine the eye surface.
12. Perform special tests such as Bright Field Acuity Testing, Potential Acuity Meter, and pachymetry.
13. Maintain and repair clinical equipment as needed.
14. Obtain accurate keratometry readings and adjust if necessary.
15. Calculate intraocular lens power manually or with computer software.
16. Manage exam room supplies and ensure medication expiration dates are current.
17. Notify the Facility Manager of equipment issues.
18. Disinfect and maintain examination rooms, following microbial control standards.
19. Maintain refrigerator logs and ensure sharps disposal compliance.
20. Ensure clinic compliance with JCAHO regulations.

Nonclinical

1. Handle Epic in-basket messages and respond to patient inquiries.
2. Assist with obtaining prior authorizations for procedures and medications.
3. Manage drug logs and supplies.
4. Support front desk staff by triaging appointments and addressing clinical questions.
5. Contribute to optimizing patient flow and physician efficiency through template suggestions.
6. Manage and order medications for intravitreal injections.
7. Track and process forms such as MVA, disability, FMLA, and workers’ compensation.
8. Possess general medical knowledge of ocular and systemic diseases and emergencies.
9. Maintain required ophthalmic technician certification.
10. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• One year of experience as an Ophthalmic Technician; certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) from JCAHPO must be obtained within 18 months of start date. CPR certification is also required.
• Additional education or related experience may substitute for experience or education as permitted by JHU policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a clinical ophthalmic setting.

Classified Title: Ophthalmic Technician
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Ophthalmic Technician
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CE
Starting Salary Range: $19.75 - $35.35 hourly ($31.42/hour targeted; commensurate with experience)

Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine - East Baltimore Campus
Department: 10002959-SOM Oph General Administration
Personnel area: School of Medicine