Ophthalmic Assistant
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
McKinley Health Center
Job Summary
Supports optometrists by performing clinical, technical, and administrative tasks that ensure efficient patient care and smooth workflow in an eye care practice. Includes conducting preliminary eye tests, preparing patients for exams, operating basic diagnostic equipment, and assisting with optical services.
Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical Testing & Patient Support
Greet patients, obtain medical history, and document symptoms and concerns.
Measure visual acuity using standardized charts and testing methods.
Perform preliminary tests such as autorefraction, keratometry, tonometry, and visual field screening.
Assist optometrists during examinations and procedures as needed.
Support contact lens fittings, including teaching insertion and removal techniques.
Educate patients on exam procedures, contact lens care, and eyewear options.
Clinical Operations & Data Management
Prepare exam rooms, clean and maintain equipment, and ensure proper sterilization protocols.
Enter accurate clinical data into the electronic health record (EHR).
Maintain inventory of diagnostic tools, supplies, and contact lenses.
Ensure compliance with HIPAA, safety, and infection control procedures.
Minimum Qualifications Six (6) months of work experience performing basic ophthalmology or optometry.
Preferred Qualifications Associate's degree as a health assistant or optometric technician certification.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge of eye anatomy, vision conditions, and clinical terminology.
Knowledge of ocular pathology, anatomy, and physiology.
Knowledge of standard ocular examination techniques.
Strong customer service and communication skills.
Ability to perform clinical tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
Knowledge and skill of aseptic and sterilization techniques.
Knowledge of infection control measures.
Comfortable using computers and electronic medical records (EHR) systems.
Ability to make decisions based on urgency of the situation and in accordance with work procedures and clinic policies.
Detail oriented, patient focused, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced clinical environment.
Appointment Information This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4047 – Ophthalmic Assistant position, appointed on a 12‑month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 8/1/2026. The budgeted salary for this position is $22.50 to $23.50 per hour.
Benefits This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
Equal Opportunity Employment The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion.
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Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical Testing & Patient Support
Greet patients, obtain medical history, and document symptoms and concerns.
Measure visual acuity using standardized charts and testing methods.
Perform preliminary tests such as autorefraction, keratometry, tonometry, and visual field screening.
Assist optometrists during examinations and procedures as needed.
Support contact lens fittings, including teaching insertion and removal techniques.
Educate patients on exam procedures, contact lens care, and eyewear options.
Clinical Operations & Data Management
Prepare exam rooms, clean and maintain equipment, and ensure proper sterilization protocols.
Enter accurate clinical data into the electronic health record (EHR).
Maintain inventory of diagnostic tools, supplies, and contact lenses.
Ensure compliance with HIPAA, safety, and infection control procedures.
Minimum Qualifications Six (6) months of work experience performing basic ophthalmology or optometry.
Preferred Qualifications Associate's degree as a health assistant or optometric technician certification.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge of eye anatomy, vision conditions, and clinical terminology.
Knowledge of ocular pathology, anatomy, and physiology.
Knowledge of standard ocular examination techniques.
Strong customer service and communication skills.
Ability to perform clinical tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
Knowledge and skill of aseptic and sterilization techniques.
Knowledge of infection control measures.
Comfortable using computers and electronic medical records (EHR) systems.
Ability to make decisions based on urgency of the situation and in accordance with work procedures and clinic policies.
Detail oriented, patient focused, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced clinical environment.
Appointment Information This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4047 – Ophthalmic Assistant position, appointed on a 12‑month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 8/1/2026. The budgeted salary for this position is $22.50 to $23.50 per hour.
Benefits This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
Equal Opportunity Employment The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion.
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