The Health Technician (Optometry) demonstrates knowledge of complex examinations and techniques, including advanced color vision testing, advanced perimetry, advanced ophthalmic imaging, and diagnostic testing (e.g. anterior segment optical coherence tomography, advanced ultrasonography, confocal microscopy, electro-diagnostic testing, etc.). They perform difficult and responsible ophthalmic technology duties with considerable latitude for the exercise of independent judgement. BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Citizenship: Citizen of the United States. Education or Experience: Experience: One year of experience as a health technician or assistant in the health care field Education: Successful completion of two academic years above high school with a minimum of 12 semester hours related to health technician/assistant or health technician (optometry)/assistant; or associate degree; or completion of an independent study course in an optometry related technician or assistant field. Combination: Equivalent combinations of experience and education as described above. English Language Proficiency: Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English. Grandfathering provision: 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: In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must meet the following grade requirements. GS-8 Experience: Candidates must have one year of experience comparable to the next lower level which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities related to the duties of the position to be filled. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: Ability to provide patient education and training to manage complex eye and vision conditions. Knowledge of advanced triage of patients depending upon level of urgency or optometry needs. Knowledge of complex, non-standard treatment and/or complex examinations and techniques. Knowledge of ocular pharmacology and systemic medications with ocular side effects. Assignment. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher level duties must be of significant scope, administrative independence, complexity (difficulty) and range of variety as described in this standard at the specified grade level and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. At the advanced level, the health technicians (optometry) perform difficult and responsible ophthalmic technology duties with considerable latitude for the exercise of independent judgment. The health technicians (optometry) perform duties such as advanced color vision testing, advanced perimetry including both automated and manual techniques, advanced ophthalmic imaging and diagnostic testing (e.g., anterior segment optical coherence tomography, advanced ultrasonography, confocal microscopy, electro-diagnostic testing, etc.), advanced patient education and training and vision rehabilitation services. References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G68 - Health Technician (Optometry) Qualification Standards. Physical Requirements: Light lifting, under 15 pounds, light carrying, under 15 pounds, pushing, reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, walking, standing, and repeated bending may be required. ["Major Duties may include but not limited to: Health technicians (optometry) perform difficult and responsible ophthalmic technology duties with considerable latitude for the exercise of independent judgment. Perform duties such as advanced color vision testing advanced perimetry including both automated and manual techniques. Perform advanced ophthalmic imaging and diagnostic testing (e.g., anterior segment optical coherence tomography, advanced ultrasonography, confocal microscopy, electro-diagnostic testing, etc.). Provide patient education and training and vision rehabilitation services. Work Schedule: Four 10 hour shifts, days off will vary Compressed/Flexible: Yes Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 0000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
About Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
