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Paraoptometric Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred. * Completion of medical assistant training program preferred. * Minimum of ...

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred. * Completion of medical assistant training program preferred. * Minimum of ...

Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred. * Completion of medical assistant training program preferred. * Minimum of ...

Optometric Assistant

Waitsfield, VT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Study support and test reimbursement to pursue paraoptometric certification We believe that great patient care starts with a happy, supported team. That's why we prioritize balance, communication ...

Licensed optician, certified paraoptometric, and assistants to enhance your efficiency * Full tech support, including pretesting equipment and the latest diagnostic tools Apply Today: Join this ...

Optometrist - Kenai, Alaska

Kenai, AK · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Licensed optician, certified paraoptometric, and assistants to enhance your efficiency * Advanced Technology: Full tech support, including pretesting equipment and the latest diagnostic tools Join ...

Licensed optician, certified paraoptometric, and assistants to enhance your efficiency * Full tech support, including pretesting equipment and the latest diagnostic tools Apply Today: Join this ...

Optometric Technician

Detroit, MI

$16 - $20/hr

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

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Paraoptometric information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Paraoptometric, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paraoptometric, you need knowledge of eye care procedures, basic medical terminology, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with certification such as CPO (Certified Paraoptometric) often preferred. Familiarity with practice management software, vision testing equipment, and electronic health records is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help provide excellent patient service and support to optometrists. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate patient assessments, efficient clinic operations, and a positive patient experience.

What are some common challenges paraoptometrics face when working in a busy optometry practice?

Paraoptometrics in busy optometry practices often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as pre-testing patients, managing appointment schedules, and assisting with eyewear selection. One common challenge is maintaining accuracy and attention to detail while working quickly to keep up with patient flow. Good communication skills are essential, as paraoptometrics frequently serve as a bridge between patients and optometrists, ensuring optimal patient care. Adapting to new technologies and updated procedures can also be an ongoing part of the role.

What are paraoptometrics?

Paraoptometrics are trained professionals who assist optometrists in providing eye care services. Their duties often include performing preliminary eye tests, helping with patient intake, managing records, and assisting with eyewear selection and fitting. They play a key supportive role in optometric practices by ensuring that the office runs smoothly and that patients receive efficient care. Many paraoptometrics are certified through organizations such as the American Optometric Association, and their responsibilities can vary based on the size and type of the practice.

What is the difference between Paraoptometric vs Optometric Assistant?

AspectParaoptometricOptometric Assistant
CertificationsOften certified through CPO or COA programsMay have basic training, less likely certified
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with optometrists, handling patient care tasksSupports optometrists with administrative and clinical duties
Job ResponsibilitiesPre-testing, patient history, assisting with examsScheduling, patient prep, equipment setup

Paraoptometric and optometric assistants both support eye care practices, but paraoptometric roles typically require specific certifications and involve more clinical patient care. Optometric assistants often focus on administrative tasks with less formal certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Paraoptometric jobs
What states have the most Paraoptometric jobs? States with the most job openings for Paraoptometric jobs include:
Infographic showing various Paraoptometric job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Back Office - Optometry Assistant

Back Office - Optometry Assistant

unicare

Hesperia, CA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Medical Assistant II will assist and support doctors of optometry in a collaborative relationship to provide patients with optimum levels of general optometric care. Under the direct supervision of the doctor, will provide technical and support assistance to improve the efficacy and efficiency of the doctors of optometry. Medical Assistant II works under the Clinic Manager to assist with maintaining efficient patient flow and quality care during clinic hours.  The Medical Assistant II works as part of a health care team including physicians, NP/PA’s, patient services representatives, medical records, health educators and social workers to provide comprehensive care in a non-judgmental manner.  Unicare Community Health Centers is a federally qualified health center providing comprehensive patient-centered primary care services including medical, dental, substance abuse treatment, mental health, ophthalmology and outreach services to low income, multiethnic, uninsured and underinsured populations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time with reasonable accommodation.

  • Accurately record patients medical and visual history, review and prepare other clinical information (PST, Medicare refresh, etc.) for doctor(s).
  • Take and record patient vitals when indicated in EMR. Perform appropriate pre-testing, such as but not limited to assessing gross visual skills, extraocular muscle action and pupillary reflexes.
  • Perform OCT, Visual Fields and Diabetic Photos.
  • Maintain accurate records and reports as instructed by the doctor.
  • Utilize eCW system to schedule and review appointments for need and accuracy.
  • Interprets for the provider and staff as needed.
  • Instill eye-drops when ordered by the doctor. Assist in therapeutic procedures such as foreign body removal.
  • Receive and process phone calls and other patient communication, from patients, assess the nature of the situation and manage triage accordingly. Manage all aspects of doctor(s) schedule, including booking appointments.
  • Maintain diagnostic and therapeutic instruments and equipment to ensure that they are clean and accurate. Assess condition of instruments and arrange for repair and/or recalibration as necessary. Maintain instruments and medications for ophthalmic therapeutics; ensure that instruments and medications are available and sterile.
  • Respond to patient concerns and resolve or forward them to the proper person or area for resolution.
  • Coordinate patient optometric care with optical dispensing, membership services, family practice, ophthalmology, pharmacy and other Unicare departments and services.
  • Follow all Unicare policies, procedures, and behavior guidelines and standards for the treatment of members and confidentiality of their care.
  • Assist with intake, financial screening, and set-up for patient visits.
  • Assist as needed including medication refill requests, specialty and procedure referrals, pre and post clinic chart review.
  • Work with Manager to oversee dispensary logs and storage to maintain quality assurance.
  • Coordinate the inventory, ordering and supply stock maintenance of medical supplies.
  • Assists with daily and monthly quality assurance reviews including emergency kit check off.
 Non-Essential Functions
  • As directed by the Clinic Manager, performs other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.
   Professional Requirements
  • Adhere to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
  • Maintain current license, registrations and/or certifications.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
  • Report to work on time and as scheduled as attendance and punctuality is necessary.
  • Ability to work well with a multidisciplinary team.
  • Ability to problem solve and be self-motivated.
  • Maintain regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and local regulations.
  • Represent the organization in a positive and professional manner at all times.                                                
  • Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.                          
  • Communicate the mission, ethics and goals of the organization.
  • Must have excellent written and oral skills, strong organizational, problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Expected to have strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to understand and follow written/verbal instructions.
  • Able to work independently with little or no supervision.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or GED required.
  • Paraoptometric Technician, Paraoptometric Assistant, Ophthalmic Assistant or Ophthalmic Technician Certificate preferred.
  • Completion of medical assistant training program preferred.
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience in an outpatient medical clinic or hospital, medical office setting.
  • One (1) year of previous experience in optometric or other ophthalmic practice.
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team.
  • Possess personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to corporate mission.
  • Flexible and able to multitask; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of policies and procedures as they relate to safe work practices.
  • Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including evenings.
  • Must be self-directed and work productively with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, Access, Outlook
  • Knowledge of Electronic Health Records
  • Thorough knowledge of basic science and optics, familiarity with optometric and/or ophthalmic procedure related to preliminary testing.

Basic knowledge of instillation of optometric diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceuticals as applied to the practice of optometry.

  • Demonstrate the skills to provide age-appropriate care to the clients of the clinic.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the principals of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to interpret information relative to the patients age related needs.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
  • Pushing and pulling objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Frequent wrist, hand, and finger dexterity to perform fine motor function.
  • Position requires light to moderate work with 25 lb. maximum weight to lift and carry.
  • Full range of body motion requires twisting body, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, listening, talking, and/or hearing, and seeing.
  • Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position
 Working Conditions
  • Non-Ionizing Radiation (microwaves)
  • Hazardous Exposure (chemical [E.G. Latex] and infectious)
Work Schedule
  • You will generally be scheduled to work each day Monday through Friday, with starting times each day varying between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and ending time between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., as required to meet the operational needs of the company. There will be occasional Saturdays as needed.
  • You will need to travel to other clinic locations as needed for cross coverage support.
Our MissionThe mission of Unicare is to be a community health care organization that treats everyone with dignity, respect and cultural sensitivity to help create an environment in which all can prosper.