Optometric Technician - Clinical

About the Organisation:
This healthcare provider specialises in preventative diagnostics and early screening, combining advanced medical technologies and AI-assisted tools with guest-centric service. Their mission is to make health screening more accessible, accurate, and comfortable through seamless, multidisciplinary care.

Role Summary:
The Optometric Technician supports early detection services by conducting basic eye assessments and assisting with AI-supported diagnostic tools. The ideal candidate is technically skilled, detail-oriented, and committed to exceptional patient care in a collaborative clinical setting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct basic eye tests including visual acuity, colour vision, depth perception, autorefraction, and tonometry
• Prepare patients for eye testing and educate them on basic eye health and preventative practices
• Assist with AI-supported diagnostics (e.g. dual fluorescence oral imaging), recording preliminary results under supervision
• Calibrate and maintain optometric equipment to ensure accuracy and safety
• Maintain accurate digital patient records in compliance with POPIA
• Deliver compassionate, guest-centric care aligned with hospitality-inspired service standards
• Collaborate with general practitioners, radiologists, and nurses to integrate eye test results with broader diagnostics
• Support appointment scheduling, patient flow, and stock management of optical supplies
• Adhere to hygiene, infection control, and Department of Health protocols

Qualifications:

• Diploma in Opticianry or equivalent certification in ophthalmic assisting from an accredited institution (e.g., CPUT)
• Training in preliminary eye testing (e.g., autorefraction, tonometry, visual acuity) is essential

Experience:

• 12 years in optometry, optical dispensing, or ophthalmic assisting preferred
• Familiarity with optometric equipment and eye testing procedures required
• Experience with AI-supported diagnostic tools is an advantage (training provided)

Skills:

• Proficiency in conducting basic eye tests and maintaining equipment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for patient education and interaction
• Competence in digital record-keeping with strict adherence to POPIA
• Ability to manage tasks in a fast-paced, patient-facing environment

Core Competencies:

• Technical proficiency in test administration and equipment handling
• Compassionate, patient-first approach to care
• Willingness to learn and support AI-driven diagnostic systems
• Cultural sensitivity in all guest interactions
• Strong attention to detail in testing and documentation
• Effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams
• Commitment to continuous learning and updated diagnostic practices

Regulatory & Compliance Requirements:

• Adhere to POPIA for secure patient data handling
• Comply with BCEA standards (54-hour week for 6-day cycle with 9 hours of overtime; 45-hour week for 5-day cycle)
• Follow infection control standards and hygiene protocols
• Participate in internal quality assurance programs to ensure diagnostic accuracy

Working Conditions:

• Based on-site at a diagnostic centre operating from 08:00 - 17:00
• Single shift: 9 hours including 1-hour unpaid meal break
• High patient interaction requiring empathy and professionalism
• Minimal biohazard exposure, with safety measures in place
• Compliance with dress code and hygiene standards is required

Salary and Benefits:

• Entry-Level (0-1 year): R15,000 - R18,000/month (R180,000R216,000/year)
• Experienced (1-5 years): R18,000 - R25,000/month (R216,000R300,000/year)