Optometric Technician

Job Description: Optometry Technician (Ophthalmic / Optometric Technician)

Advantage Health (AH)
Detroit, Michigan
FQHC - Vision & Primary Eye Care Services

Reports To

Director of Vision Services
Medical Director, Specialty & Vision Services
(Functional supervision by Optometrist and Ophthalmologist)

Position Summary

The Optometry Technician at Advantage Health supports the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered vision care in alignment with AH's mission to provide compassionate, accessible healthcare to underserved communities in Detroit . This role is essential to ensuring efficient clinical operations, accurate diagnostic testing, and a positive patient experience within an integrated, patient-centered FQHC model.

The Optometry Technician works collaboratively with Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, Primary Care Providers, and multidisciplinary care teams to support early detection of eye disease, continuity of care, and timely access to vision services , particularly for patients impacted by chronic disease, socioeconomic barriers, and limited access to specialty care.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Clinical Support & Patient Care

• Prepare patients for eye examinations by obtaining and documenting medical, ocular, and social histories.
• Perform preliminary vision testing and diagnostic procedures, including visual acuity, refraction support, tonometry, pupil assessment, and imaging as trained and permitted.
• Assist Optometrists and Ophthalmologists during examinations and procedures within scope of training.
• Accurately document test results and clinical information in the electronic health record.
• Support referral coordination and follow-up appointments to ensure continuity of care.

Integrated Care & Community Health

• Support Advantage Health's team-based care model through effective patient flow and communication.
• Assist in identifying patients with chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension) that may impact vision health and escalate findings appropriately.
• Provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and patient-centered interactions with a diverse patient population.
• Reinforce patient education related to exam processes, follow-up care, and vision health as directed by providers.

Documentation, Quality & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in the electronic health record in accordance with AH policies and FQHC standards.
• Ensure exam rooms, equipment, and supplies meet infection control and safety requirements.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives, audits, and performance monitoring activities.
• Practice within the scope of services approved by HRSA and in accordance with assigned responsibilities and supervision.
• Comply with all Advantage Health policies, HRSA requirements, FTCA-related standards, and regulatory expectations.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of on-the-job training or formal optometric/ophthalmic technician training program.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Preferred

• Certification as an Optometric Technician, Ophthalmic Technician, or Paraoptometric Assistant.
• Prior experience in an FQHC, community health, or ophthalmology/optometry practice.
• Commitment to serving underserved populations.

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and clinical accuracy.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to patient-centered and culturally responsive care.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-volume clinic environment.
• Professional integrity and adherence to ethical standards of practice.

Work Environment

• Outpatient FQHC clinical setting supporting vision services.
• Regular standing, patient interaction, and use of ophthalmic diagnostic equipment.
• Schedule may include full-time or part-time shifts aligned with clinic operations.

Advantage Health Mission Alignment

This role directly supports Advantage Health's mission to:

• Improve access to preventive and primary vision care for underserved Detroit communities
• Support early detection of vision-related complications linked to chronic disease
• Strengthen integrated vision, primary care, and specialty services

Promote health equity and long-term community wellness