Optometric Technician

The Legends Agency; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider specializing in diagnostics seeks an Optometric Technician in Cape Town. Responsibilities include conducting basic eye tests, assisting with AI diagnostic tools, and maintaining patient records. Ideal candidates have a Diploma in Opticianry and relevant experience, with a commitment to patient care and collaboration. Competitive salary offered based on experience, in a supportive working environment.

Qualifications

• Training in preliminary eye testing is essential.
• 12 years in optometry or ophthalmic assisting preferred.
• Experience with AI-supported diagnostic tools is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Conduct basic eye tests including visual acuity and tonometry.
• Prepare patients for eye testing and educate them on eye health.
• Assist with AI-supported diagnostics and record preliminary results.
• Calibrate and maintain optometric equipment.
• Maintain accurate digital patient records in compliance with POPIA.

Skills

Conducting basic eye tests

Communication skills

Digital record-keeping

Technical proficiency

Compassionate patient care

Education

Diploma in Opticianry or equivalent

Tools

Optometric equipment

Job description

Job Title: Optometric Technician
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
08:0017:00 shift, may include weekends

About the Organisation:
This healthcare provider specialises in preventative diagnostics and early screening, combining advanced medical technologies and AI-assisted tools with guest-centric service. Their mission is to make health screening more accessible, accurate, and comfortable through seamless, multidisciplinary care.

Role Summary:
The Optometric Technician supports early detection services by conducting basic eye assessments and assisting with AI-supported diagnostic tools. The ideal candidate is technically skilled, detail-oriented, and committed to exceptional patient care in a collaborative clinical setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct basic eye tests including visual acuity, colour vision, depth perception, autorefraction, and tonometry

Prepare patients for eye testing and educate them on basic eye health and preventative practices

Assist with AI-supported diagnostics (e.g. dual fluorescence oral imaging), recording preliminary results under supervision

Calibrate and maintain optometric equipment to ensure accuracy and safety

Maintain accurate digital patient records in compliance with POPIA

Deliver compassionate, guest-centric care aligned with hospitality-inspired service standards

Collaborate with general practitioners, radiologists, and nurses to integrate eye test results with broader diagnostics

Support appointment scheduling, patient flow, and stock management of optical supplies

Adhere to hygiene, infection control, and Department of Health protocols

Qualifications:

Diploma in Opticianry or equivalent certification in ophthalmic assisting from an accredited institution (e.g., CPUT)

Training in preliminary eye testing (e.g., autorefraction, tonometry, visual acuity) is essential

Experience:

12 years in optometry, optical dispensing, or ophthalmic assisting preferred

Familiarity with optometric equipment and eye testing procedures required

Experience with AI-supported diagnostic tools is an advantage (training provided)

Skills:

Proficiency in conducting basic eye tests and maintaining equipment

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for patient education and interaction

Competence in digital record-keeping with strict adherence to POPIA

Ability to manage tasks in a fast-paced, patient-facing environment

Core Competencies:

Technical proficiency in test administration and equipment handling

Compassionate, patient-first approach to care

Willingness to learn and support AI-driven diagnostic systems

Cultural sensitivity in all guest interactions

Strong attention to detail in testing and documentation

Effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams

Commitment to continuous learning and updated diagnostic practices

Regulatory & Compliance Requirements:

Adhere to POPIA for secure patient data handling

Comply with BCEA standards (54-hour week for 6-day cycle with 9 hours of overtime; 45-hour week for 5-day cycle)

Follow infection control standards and hygiene protocols

Participate in internal quality assurance programs to ensure diagnostic accuracy

Working Conditions:

Based on-site at a diagnostic centre operating from 08:00 -17:00

Single shift: 9 hours including 1-hour unpaid meal break

High patient interaction requiring empathy and professionalism

Minimal biohazard exposure, with safety measures in place

Compliance with dress code and hygiene standards is required

Salary and Benefits:

Entry-Level (0-1 year): R15,000 -R18,000/month (R180,000R216,000/year)

Experienced (1-5 years): R18,000 -R25,000/month (R216,000R300,000/year)