Ophthalmic Technician - COA Preferred in Tacoma, Washington at Sound Retina PS

Job Description

Job Title: Ophthalmic Technician – COA Preferred

Reports To: Site Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Summary: The Ophthalmic Technician provides direct clinical support to physicians and patients in a retina specialty clinic. This role includes patient preparation, ophthalmic testing and imaging, documentation, assisting with in-office procedures, and supporting clinic operations. The position requires attention to detail, professionalism, adherence to clinical protocols, and a commitment to high-quality patient care. Sound Retina provides training for technicians new to retina specialty care.

Major Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Clinical Duties:

• Prepare patients for examinations by obtaining medical history, performing visual acuity testing, measuring intraocular pressure, and administering ophthalmic drops as directed by protocol or provider order.
• Scribe physician encounters and ensure clinical documentation is completed accurately and within 48 hours of the patient visit.
• Perform ophthalmic diagnostic testing and imaging, including OCT, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography image capture.
• Assist physicians during in-office procedures such as lasers and intravitreal injections, including room setup, patient positioning, and equipment support.
• Provide patient education regarding procedures, post-procedure care, medications prescribed by providers, and follow-up instructions.
• Communicate with patients regarding scheduling, follow-up appointments, and treatment instructions.

Operational Responsibilities

• Maintain exam rooms, equipment, and supplies in accordance with clinic standards.
• Ensure timely and accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR).
• Follow clinic policies, safety protocols, infection control standards, and HIPAA requirements.
• Collaborate with clinical and administrative team members to support efficient clinic operations.
• Participate in training, competency assessments, and continuing education as assigned.

• Maintain respectful, professional interactions with patients, physicians, coworkers, and clinic leadership.
• Promote a positive, team-based work environment free from gossip or negativity.
• Actively participate in clinic meetings and contribute to a culture of learning and collaboration.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum one (1) year experience in an ophthalmology, optometry, or medical clinic setting or completion of an approved ophthalmic technician training program (or equivalent experience).
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, providers, and staff in person and by telephone.
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform clinical tasks for extended periods.
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel between clinic locations as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• COA or COT certification.
• Retina or ophthalmology clinic experience.
• Medical scribing experience.
• Proficiency with computer-based clinical documentation systems and medical software.

Physical and Environmental Requirements:

• Prolonged standing, walking, and movement between exam rooms.
• Manual dexterity to operate ophthalmic equipment and perform venipuncture.
• Visual acuity sufficient to operate diagnostic equipment and read computer screens.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, providers, and staff in a clinical environment.

Performance Expectations:

• Maintain complete and accurate documentation within required timelines.
• Demonstrate competency in ophthalmic testing and procedures as assessed by training and competency evaluations.
• Adhere to clinic policies, safety standards, and patient confidentiality requirements.
• Maintain professional conduct and teamwork in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Compensation and Benefits:

This position is eligible for benefits in accordance with Sound Retina’s benefits plans and policies, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, training and certification reimbursement, and other programs as outlined in company policy.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sound Retina is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to protected characteristics.

Competency Matrix – Medical Assistant / Ophthalmic Technician

Level 1: Entry-Level Medical Assistant / Ophthalmic Technician (MA I / Tech I)

Typical Experience: 0–1 year in role or new to retina
Primary Focus: Foundational clinical skills and documentation accuracy

Clinical Competencies

• Performs basic patient intake, vision testing, and intraocular pressure measurement per protocol.
• Administers ophthalmic medications under physician orders.
• Performs basic imaging (OCT, fundus photography) under supervision.
• Assists with procedures as directed (room setup, patient positioning, instrument handling).

Documentation & Compliance

• Completes accurate documentation in the EHR within required timelines.
• Demonstrates understanding of HIPAA, infection control, and clinic safety policies.

Operational & Behavioral Expectations

• Demonstrates professionalism, punctuality, and teamwork.
• Accepts coaching and participates in training and competency validation.
• Communicates respectfully with patients and staff.

Level 2: Intermediate Ophthalmic Technician (MA II / Tech II)

Typical Experience: 1–3 years in role or demonstrated proficiency
Primary Focus: Independent clinical performance and patient flow support

Clinical Competencies

• Independently performs patient intake, testing, and imaging.
• Scribes physician encounters with minimal corrections required.
• Anticipates physician and patient needs during in-office procedures.
• Provides patient education on treatments, medications, and post-procedure care.

Documentation & Compliance

• Consistently completes charts within required timelines with minimal errors.
• Demonstrates strong adherence to protocols and identifies process gaps or safety concerns.

Operational & Behavioral Expectations

• Supports clinic workflow and assists with training entry-level staff.
• Communicates effectively with providers, leadership, and patients.
• Demonstrates reliability and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.

Level 3: Senior / Lead Ophthalmic Technician (MA III / Senior Tech)

Typical Experience: 3+ years in role with advanced competency or leadership responsibilities
Primary Focus: Advanced clinical expertise, mentorship, and operational leadership

Clinical Competencies:

• Demonstrates advanced proficiency in all ophthalmic testing, imaging, and procedure support.
• Serves as a clinical resource for providers and team members.
• Assists with training protocols, competency assessments, and onboarding.

Documentation & Compliance:

• Maintains exemplary documentation quality and timeliness.
• Ensures adherence to clinical protocols and participates in audits and quality improvement initiatives.

Operational & Behavioral Expectations:

• Provides mentorship and guidance to technicians and MAs.
• Assists with scheduling, workflow optimization, and clinic operations as assigned.
• Demonstrates leadership, professionalism, and accountability.
• Participates in departmental projects, policy development, and training initiatives.

Career Progression & Evaluation Notes (Internal Use)

Progression between levels is based on:

• Demonstrated competency and skill mastery
• Training completion and certifications (COA/COT, phlebotomy, etc.)
• Documentation accuracy and timeliness
• Attendance, professionalism, and teamwork
• Leadership contributions (for Level 3)

Progression is not automatic and requires management review and approval.