JOB SUMMARY:
The Optical Assistant/Optician interprets prescriptions written by optometrists or ophthalmologists and assists patients with selecting eyeglass frames and lenses that meet their vision needs, preferences, and budget. This position coordinates eyeglass orders with optical laboratories, submits insurance claims for eyeglasses, and maintains frame inventory while providing attentive, patient-centered service.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:
Assist patients with selecting frames appropriate for their needs, fit, preferred style, and color. Take and accurately record the measurements needed for eyeglasses. Recommend lens styles, materials, and options based on the patient’s prescription and needs; refer prescription questions to the optometrist. Prepare accurate optical laboratory work orders for the grinding and mounting of lenses in selected frames; track orders and communicate order status to patients. Coordinate with optical laboratories to resolve order discrepancies, delays, and other concerns. Submit patient insurance information and eyeglass claims, maintain supporting records, and follow up on claim issues as directed. Record sales, process patient payments, and maintain accurate bookkeeping and patient records in approved systems. Manage frame inventory, monitor stock levels, and maintain organized frames, optical equipment, and supplies; restock exam rooms as needed. Perform general office duties, including telephone support, patient assistance, and assigned opening and closing procedures. Maintain infection control standards by sanitizing frames and optical equipment in accordance with AccessHealth procedures. Assist with assessments, audits, and other reviews required by organizational or regulatory guidelines. Assist with training newly employed staff as directed. Maintain positive working relationships with patients, families, managers, providers, staff, and optical laboratory personnel. Protect confidential patient and organizational information and comply with AccessHealth policies and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned. EDUCATION/LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION/SUPERVISION QUALIFICATIONS:High school diploma or equivalent. At least one year of experience in an optical setting. American Board of Opticianry (ABO) certification preferred but not required.
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
REQUIRED:Strong customer service and written and verbal communication skills. Ability to use basic computer systems, office software, and patient record systems. Knowledge of basic vision insurance policies and experience submitting eyeglass claims. Experience with optical laboratory orders, frame inventory, payment processing, and general office duties. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and maintain positive relationships with patients, families, and colleagues.
PREFERRED:
Bilingual in English and SpanishPHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle and feel objects, tools and controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl; talk and hear; taste and smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is not exposed to weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Hours:
Employees will be assigned to a regular 40-hours work schedule, which may include hours before 8:00 am, after 5:00 pm, and Saturdays as determined by department needs and requirements.
