Optical Technician

Community Health Center; Fort Dodge (IA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Center Fort Dodge, IA is hiring an Optical Technician to support digital eye exams and billing for provider visits. The role involves operating and maintaining diagnostic equipment, assisting with virtual visits, and ensuring accurate entry of billing codes.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma with preferred post-secondary optometry or medical assisting coursework, plus experience with optical testing and EHR systems. CPR and COA/COT/CPO certifications are desirable.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Post-secondary coursework in optometry or medical assisting preferred.
• Prior optical tech/ophthalmic assistant/medical assistant experience preferred.
• Knowledge of optometric testing procedures and medical billing practices preferred.
• Strong data entry and billing accuracy; excellent patient service.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and prepare patients for virtual eye exams.
• Operate and maintain diagnostic equipment (autorefractor, tonometer, OCT, retinal camera, etc.).
• Document tests and ensure equipment calibration; report issues.
• Connect patients to the Digital Optometrics virtual provider platform and assist during exams.
• Print and provide prescriptions; explain procedures and next steps.
• Enter billing codes and submit charges; coordinate with billing for denials.
• Maintain patient confidentiality per HIPAA.
• Assist with contact lens fittings and frame selection.
• Keep the testing area organized and stocked; support front desk when needed.

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Fort Dodge, IA, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1146

Salary Range: $20.00 To $24.00 Hourly

Position Summary

The Optical Technician supports the delivery of high-quality vision care services by operating and maintaining all diagnostic equipment used in Digital Optometrics Virtual Eye Exams. This role ensures seamless patient flow through pre-testing, assists with virtual visits, handles prescription printing, contact lens fittings, and is responsible for accurately entering and billing all codes related to provider visits. The technician serves as a key liaison between patients, providers, and the billing team to ensure an efficient and positive patient experience.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Pre-Testing

Welcome and prepare patients for virtual eye exams with a friendly and professional demeanor.

Operate and maintain all pre-testing and diagnostic machines (e.g., autorefractor, tonometer, visual field analyzer, retinal camera, OCT, etc.).

Accurately perform and document all required tests as directed by the optometrist.

Ensure all equipment is calibrated and functioning properly, reporting any issues promptly.

Virtual Exam Support

Connect patients to the Digital Optometrics virtual provider platform and ensure smooth communication throughout the exam.

Assist the provider during virtual exams by following instructions for machine operation or patient positioning.

Print and provide finalized eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions to patients.

Explain exam procedures and address basic patient questions regarding testing or next steps.

Enter all billing codes for provider services accurately and in a timely manner.

Submit charges and bill out codes to ensure compliant and efficient revenue capture.

Coordinate with the billing department to resolve discrepancies or denials.

Maintain patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA regulations.

Contact Lens & Optical Support

Assist patients with contact lens insertion, removal, and trial fittings.

Provide basic education for contact lens care, wear schedule, and follow-up requirements.

Support frame selection, prescription verification, and adjustments as needed.

Administrative & Team Support

Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked optical testing area.

Assitant with inventory management for lenses, contact lens trials, and other supplies.

Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and quality improvement initiatives.

Demonstrate flexibility by assisting with front desk or other optical duties as needed.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required; post-secondary coursework in optometry or medical assisting preferred.

Prior experience as an optical technician, ophthalmic assistant, or medical assistant in a vision care setting preferred.

Knowledge of optometric testing procedures and medical billing practices strongly preferred.

Strong technical skills to operate diagnostic equipment and virtual exam technology.

Excellent attention to detail with strong data entry and billing accuracy.

Outstanding communication and customer service skills with a patient-centered approach.

Ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Proficient with electronic health records (Epic preferred) and Microsoft Office.

Certifications

CPR certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days of hire).

COA, COT, or CPO certifications are desirable but not required.

Physical & Work Requirements

Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.

Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate instruments and equipment.

Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Work performed primarily in a clinical optical environment.

Core Competencies

Patient-Centered Care & Service Excellence