Ophthalmic Technician Apprenticeship

Ophthalmic Technician Apprentice

The Ophthalmic Technician Apprentice is a training role through Ochsner's Workforce Development Program designed to prepare individuals for progression into the Ophthalmic Technician position. Under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers and experienced ophthalmic staff, the incumbent participates in a structured apprenticeship program that combines formal instruction, clinical rotations, and on the job training. The apprentice progressively learns to support ophthalmology clinic operations and provide direct patient care while completing required competencies and learning milestones within the designated apprenticeship framework.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

Education

• Required - High School Diploma/GED

Work Experience

• Preferred - 1 year Experience in a healthcare, clinical, or patient facing environment

Certifications

• Required - Basic Life Support - BLS from the American Heart Association, or obtained within a defined timeframe following hire per department standards
• Required - Certified Opthalmology Assistant - EverCheck upon completion of approximately 1,000 documented training hours
• Required - Certified Opthamology Technician - To Be Obtained - EverCheck upon completion of approximately 2,000 documented training hours

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Proficiency in using computers, software, and web based applications
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Organizational skills
• Ability to learn and apply ophthalmic clinical procedures and workflows
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with patient privacy requirements
• Willingness and ability to learn in a fast paced clinical environment under supervision

Job Duties

• Commits to and actively participates in a structured ophthalmic technician apprenticeship or training program, including coursework, clinical rotations, and required on the job training hours
• Assumes responsibility for meeting learning milestones and competency expectations outlined by the apprenticeship program
• Learns and assists with managing patient flow in and out of examination rooms
• Assists in retrieving, preparing, and organizing patient information for provider review
• Learns to prepare patients for examinations, procedures, and provider visits under supervision
• Assists with cleaning, stocking, and maintaining exam rooms, procedure rooms, instruments, and equipment
• Under supervision, learns to perform basic ophthalmic assessments and preliminary testing appropriate to training level
• Documents patient information in the medical record according to department guidelines and training scope
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions, and communication style
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time. Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards. This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns. The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work. Normal routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluid or tissue and as part of their employment, incumbents are not called upon to perform or assist in emergency care or first aid. The incumbent has no occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases. Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.