Health Technician (Ophthalmology)
SummaryOphthalmology Technicians in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) support Ophthalmologists in diagnosis, treatment, prevention, follow-up care and patient counselingThe Health Technician (Ophthalmology) performs a range of standard, but complex, diagnostic procedures, assists during clinic-based surgical procedures, educates patients and legal representatives, assists with the education of medical students and residents.Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates02/13/2024 to 02/19/2024 Salary$56,695 - $73,701 per year Pay scale & gradeGS 8 HelpLocation2 vacancies in the following location:
Buffalo, NY Remote jobNo Telework eligibleNo Travel Required25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position. Relocation expenses reimbursedNo Appointment typePermanent - Work scheduleFull-time - ServiceExcepted Promotion potentialNone Job family (Series)0640 Health Aid And Technician Supervisory statusNo Security clearanceOther Drug testYes Position sensitivity and riskNon-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination processCredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement numberCBTE-12315798-24-SC Control number776328300HelpThis job is open to Internal to an agencyCurrent federal employees of this agency.VideosHelpDutiesThe Health Technician (Ophthalmology) at this level performs a range of standard, but complex, diagnostic proceduresIn addition to the duties expected of the GS-7 level, the following clinical duties and responsibilities are expected at the GS-8 assignment:
Checks and performs calibration of technical ophthalmology screening instruments. Obtains patient physical history, to include chief complaint; reason for visit; pertinent signs and symptoms; current medication allergies; past ocular and general medical history both ocular and general; family history both ocular and general; social history; and review of medications and allergies, including current ocular prescription and non-prescription medications. Accurately tests visual acuity at distance and near, with and without correction or with and without a pinhole. Measures eyeglass prescription using manual or automated lensometer, recording sphere, cylinder, axis, and prism in both plus and minus cylinder. Performs pupil evaluation recording pupil size, shape, symmetry, reaction to light and accommodationPerforms swinging flashlight test to detect a relative afferent pupillary defect. Performs basic refractometry utilizing an auto refraction or habitual glass prescription in the phoropter. Instills eye medications (drops or ointments, including anesthetic, dye, dilating drops, cycloplegic drops, or antibiotics). Measures intraocular pressure with standard techniques, including Goldmann applanation tonometry. Performs pachymetry to determine corneal thickness and manual keratometry or automated topography to determine corneal curvature. Performs intra-ocular lens calculations using an IOL Master or equivalent device. Performs automated visual field testing using various perimetry machines. Performs external photographs and fundus photography. Performs optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the anterior segment, retina and optic nerve. Performs patient screening and triage of potentially urgent ocular conditions. Assists during clinic-based ophthalmic surgery, including revision of wounds, biopsies of the eyelid lesions, cultures of conjunctiva, or cornea; reformation of anterior chamber, evacuation of hyphema, repositioning of corneal endothelial grafts, intra-vitreous injections, and laser surgical procedures. Educates patients and legal authorized representatives in eye care, including preoperative and postoperative instructions. Assists in the education and training of medical students, residents and fellows in those facilities with medical school affiliations. Ensures proper cleaning and disinfection; calibration, maintenance, backup, annual inventory and ordering of instruments, supplies and equipment; obtains quotes as needed; and reports needed repairs to biomedical engineering.Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday 8:
00am-4:
30pmTelework:
Not AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.Functional Statement #:
08032ARelocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not AuthorizedPermanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not AuthorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredHelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.SCitizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointmentApplicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. You may be required to serve a probationary period. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.QualificationsApplicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Experience and Education:
ExperienceOne year of experience in a health care field, such as but not limited to nursing, medical assistant, or health technicianOR EducationTwo years above high school with a minimum of six semester hours directly related to a health care field or associate's degree in a health care related degreeOR Experience/Education CombinationEquivalent combinations of experience and education are qualifyingExamples are listed below:
Six months of experience in the health care field; and one year above high school; or Six months of experience in the health care field and successful completion of a course for health care technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or ophthalmology technicians given by the U.SArmed Forces; or Six months of experience in the health care field and completion of an independent study course in Ophthalmic Medical Assisting. Certification:
All applicants must be certified as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) with the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)The COA certification is JCAHPO's entry-level certification examination for a Health Technician (Ophthalmology).May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).Grade Determinations:
Health Technician (Ophthalmology), GS-8 (Full Performance Level) ExperienceOne year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
Ability to perform advanced tonometry and pupil evaluation; Ability to perform calculations for selection of intraocular lens; Knowledge of clinic based ophthalmic surgical assisting; Knowledge of eye anatomy and physiology; Knowledge of medication effects and proper instillation in the eye; Knowledge of optics; and Knowledge of proper cleaning and maintenance of clinic equipment.Preferred
Experience:
Perform basic refractometry utilizing an auto refraction or habitual glass prescription in the phoropterObtain patient physical history, to include chief complaint; reason for visit; pertinent signs and symptoms; current medication allergies; past ocular and general medical history both ocular and general; family history both ocular and general; social history; and review of medications and allergies, including current ocular prescription and non-prescription medicationsAccurately tests visual acuity at distance and near, with and without correction or with and without a pinhole.References:
See VA Handbook 5005/98, Part II, Appendix G52The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-08.Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.SDepartment of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employmentYou can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.ed.gov/accreditation/If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that educationFor further information, visit:
https:
//sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/. />Additional informationReceiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employeeSelected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experienceThis credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leaveSuch credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.VA encourages persons with disabilities to applyThe health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy)VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locationsIf selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start dateThe agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.Read more BenefitsHelpA career with the U.Sgovernment provides employees with a comprehensive benefits packageAs a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewardingOpens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.Review our benefitsEligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittentContact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.How You Will Be EvaluatedYou will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFICWE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCEYour application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verifiedPlease follow all instructions carefullyErrors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social)Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employmentYou will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members. Recommended Skills Anatomy Backup Calculations Calibration Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Clinical Works Apply to this job. Think you're the perfect candidate? Apply on company site $('.external-apply-email-saved').on('click', function (event) window.ExternalApply = window.open('/interstitial?jobdid=j3m57t6nhvhvgbbpf9x', 'ExternalApply-j3m57t6nhvhvgbbpf9x'); ); $(document).ready( function() $(#ads-desktop-placeholder).html(
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n Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
Buffalo, NY Remote jobNo Telework eligibleNo Travel Required25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position. Relocation expenses reimbursedNo Appointment typePermanent - Work scheduleFull-time - ServiceExcepted Promotion potentialNone Job family (Series)0640 Health Aid And Technician Supervisory statusNo Security clearanceOther Drug testYes Position sensitivity and riskNon-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination processCredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement numberCBTE-12315798-24-SC Control number776328300HelpThis job is open to Internal to an agencyCurrent federal employees of this agency.VideosHelpDutiesThe Health Technician (Ophthalmology) at this level performs a range of standard, but complex, diagnostic proceduresIn addition to the duties expected of the GS-7 level, the following clinical duties and responsibilities are expected at the GS-8 assignment:
Checks and performs calibration of technical ophthalmology screening instruments. Obtains patient physical history, to include chief complaint; reason for visit; pertinent signs and symptoms; current medication allergies; past ocular and general medical history both ocular and general; family history both ocular and general; social history; and review of medications and allergies, including current ocular prescription and non-prescription medications. Accurately tests visual acuity at distance and near, with and without correction or with and without a pinhole. Measures eyeglass prescription using manual or automated lensometer, recording sphere, cylinder, axis, and prism in both plus and minus cylinder. Performs pupil evaluation recording pupil size, shape, symmetry, reaction to light and accommodationPerforms swinging flashlight test to detect a relative afferent pupillary defect. Performs basic refractometry utilizing an auto refraction or habitual glass prescription in the phoropter. Instills eye medications (drops or ointments, including anesthetic, dye, dilating drops, cycloplegic drops, or antibiotics). Measures intraocular pressure with standard techniques, including Goldmann applanation tonometry. Performs pachymetry to determine corneal thickness and manual keratometry or automated topography to determine corneal curvature. Performs intra-ocular lens calculations using an IOL Master or equivalent device. Performs automated visual field testing using various perimetry machines. Performs external photographs and fundus photography. Performs optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the anterior segment, retina and optic nerve. Performs patient screening and triage of potentially urgent ocular conditions. Assists during clinic-based ophthalmic surgery, including revision of wounds, biopsies of the eyelid lesions, cultures of conjunctiva, or cornea; reformation of anterior chamber, evacuation of hyphema, repositioning of corneal endothelial grafts, intra-vitreous injections, and laser surgical procedures. Educates patients and legal authorized representatives in eye care, including preoperative and postoperative instructions. Assists in the education and training of medical students, residents and fellows in those facilities with medical school affiliations. Ensures proper cleaning and disinfection; calibration, maintenance, backup, annual inventory and ordering of instruments, supplies and equipment; obtains quotes as needed; and reports needed repairs to biomedical engineering.Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday 8:
00am-4:
30pmTelework:
Not AvailableVirtual:
This is not a virtual position.Functional Statement #:
08032ARelocation/Recruitment Incentives:
Not AuthorizedPermanent Change of Station (PCS):
Not AuthorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredHelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.SCitizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointmentApplicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. You may be required to serve a probationary period. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.QualificationsApplicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.Basic Requirements:
United States Citizenship:
Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Experience and Education:
ExperienceOne year of experience in a health care field, such as but not limited to nursing, medical assistant, or health technicianOR EducationTwo years above high school with a minimum of six semester hours directly related to a health care field or associate's degree in a health care related degreeOR Experience/Education CombinationEquivalent combinations of experience and education are qualifyingExamples are listed below:
Six months of experience in the health care field; and one year above high school; or Six months of experience in the health care field and successful completion of a course for health care technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or ophthalmology technicians given by the U.SArmed Forces; or Six months of experience in the health care field and completion of an independent study course in Ophthalmic Medical Assisting. Certification:
All applicants must be certified as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) with the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)The COA certification is JCAHPO's entry-level certification examination for a Health Technician (Ophthalmology).May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).Grade Determinations:
Health Technician (Ophthalmology), GS-8 (Full Performance Level) ExperienceOne year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs:
Ability to perform advanced tonometry and pupil evaluation; Ability to perform calculations for selection of intraocular lens; Knowledge of clinic based ophthalmic surgical assisting; Knowledge of eye anatomy and physiology; Knowledge of medication effects and proper instillation in the eye; Knowledge of optics; and Knowledge of proper cleaning and maintenance of clinic equipment.Preferred
Experience:
Perform basic refractometry utilizing an auto refraction or habitual glass prescription in the phoropterObtain patient physical history, to include chief complaint; reason for visit; pertinent signs and symptoms; current medication allergies; past ocular and general medical history both ocular and general; family history both ocular and general; social history; and review of medications and allergies, including current ocular prescription and non-prescription medicationsAccurately tests visual acuity at distance and near, with and without correction or with and without a pinhole.References:
See VA Handbook 5005/98, Part II, Appendix G52The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-08.Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.SDepartment of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employmentYou can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.ed.gov/accreditation/If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that educationFor further information, visit:
https:
//sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/. />Additional informationReceiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employeeSelected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experienceThis credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leaveSuch credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.VA encourages persons with disabilities to applyThe health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.e., medical, religious or pregnancy)VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locationsIf selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start dateThe agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.Read more BenefitsHelpA career with the U.Sgovernment provides employees with a comprehensive benefits packageAs a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewardingOpens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.Review our benefitsEligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittentContact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.How You Will Be EvaluatedYou will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFICWE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCEYour application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verifiedPlease follow all instructions carefullyErrors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social)Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employmentYou will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members. Recommended Skills Anatomy Backup Calculations Calibration Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Clinical Works Apply to this job. Think you're the perfect candidate? Apply on company site $('.external-apply-email-saved').on('click', function (event) window.ExternalApply = window.open('/interstitial?jobdid=j3m57t6nhvhvgbbpf9x', 'ExternalApply-j3m57t6nhvhvgbbpf9x'); ); $(document).ready( function() $(#ads-desktop-placeholder).html(
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n Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
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