Ophthalmic Technician

Job Overview

This role is for an Ophthalmic Technician in Des Moines, IA. You’ll work directly with patients, helping them through their eye exams and treatments. It’s a hands on job where precision matters, and you’re the person who makes sure everything runs smoothly before the doctor steps in. Clinics in Des Moines, IA are often busy, so you need to keep a steady pace and not get flustered when things move fast.

Duties & Responsibilities / JobXi / Des Moines, IA

• Patient workups. You’ll take medical histories, check visual acuity, and test eye pressure. This sets the stage for the exam.
• Assist during procedures. Handing instruments and helping with minor surgeries or laser treatments is part of the day. You keep the field sterile and anticipate what’s needed.
• Administer eye drops. Dilating drops, anesthetic drops, and sometimes fluorescein for staining. You explain what’s happening so patients don’t worry.
• Troubleshoot equipment. Autorefractors, lensometers, and slit lamps all need calibration checks. If something glitches, you know who to call or how to fix it yourself.
• Scribe for the ophthalmologist. Typing exam findings into the EMR system quickly while talking to the patient takes concentration. It gets easier with practice.

Requirements / JobXi / Des Moines, IA

• A high school diploma or GED is required. Some employers prefer an associate degree in ophthalmic technology but it isn't a dealbreaker otherwise.
• CET or COA certification from JCAHPO gives you an edge. If you don't have it yet, experience may suffice if you can sit for the exam within 12 months of hire.
• The physical side: Standing for long periods is normal. Bending down to adjust equipment or help elderly patients get comfortable happens frequently throughout a shift in Des Moines, IA based clinics that see high volumes daily.