Launch Your Career in Ophthalmology with the VA in Los Angeles
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a cornerstone of American healthcare, providing specialized, compassionate care to those who have defended our country. The Greater Los Angeles Health Care System is currently seeking a skilled Health Technician (Ophthalmology) to join our perioperative services team. If you are a certified Ophthalmic Assistant looking for a stable career that centers on patient well-being and clinical excellence, this is your opportunity to serve those who have served.
Job Responsibilities
As an Ophthalmology Health Technician, your daily tasks are diverse and essential to clinical operations:
- Performing initial patient screenings and triaging urgent ocular conditions.
- Assisting ophthalmologists with clinic-based surgical procedures, including biopsies and laser procedures.
- Educating patients on preoperative and postoperative eye care.
- Documenting detailed patient histories and ocular symptoms.
- Calibrating ophthalmic screening instruments to ensure diagnostic accuracy.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Certification: Possession of a current COA certification from JCAHPO is mandatory.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication in English.
- Medical: Ability to pass a drug test and complete the annual flu vaccination program.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GS-05 | Basic requirements only |
| GS-06 | 1 year of equivalent GS-5 experience |
| GS-07 | 1 year of equivalent GS-6 experience |
| GS-08 | 1 year of equivalent GS-7 experience |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $55,678 to $99,291 annually, depending on experience and the determined grade level.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, generous leave policies, and a stable federal retirement pension plan. Furthermore, you will gain access to federal clinical training resources that can propel your career forward.
Application Tips
- Use the specific VA clinical resume document available on the VA careers website.
- Detail every aspect of your clinical experience—volunteer work and specialized training are highly relevant.
- Ensure your COA certification is front and center in your document uploads.
Serving as a Health Technician (Ophthalmology) within the VA system is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence for our Veterans. If you possess the required skills and a passion for eye care, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dedicated healthcare team.
Why This Health Technician (Ophthalmology) Job Matters
Join the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and play a pivotal role in preserving the vision of those who served our nation.
Health Technician (Ophthalmology) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and skilled Health Technician (Ophthalmology) to join our Perioperative Services team in North Hills, CA. This position is vital to our mission, providing direct support to ophthalmologists and optometrists while delivering high-quality diagnostic care to our Veterans. You will have the opportunity to work in a collaborative, patient-centered environment where your clinical expertise in ophthalmology directly impacts the health and well-being of the men and women who have served our country.
Requirements for Health Technician (Ophthalmology)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold active Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) certification from JCAHPO.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must undergo and pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must fulfill Selective Service registration requirements (if applicable).
- Commitment to participating in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Ability to complete a 1 to 2-year trial period.
- Subject to background and security investigations.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Ophthalmology)
- Clinical experience in an outpatient healthcare or ophthalmology setting.
- Proven competency in ophthalmic diagnostic equipment and patient screening.
- Ability to assist in minor eye surgery procedures.
- Strong communication skills for patient education and medical documentation.
- Experience in training or assisting students and residents in a clinical setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- âś“Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and clinical training
- âś“Access to a dedicated and mission-driven team environment
đź’ˇ How to Apply Health Technician (Ophthalmology) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Ophthalmology) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full position announcement and eligibility requirements.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including your COA certification and transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all documents and submit your application package before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
- Ensure your COA certification is clearly highlighted and attached.
- Verify that all education and experience documentation meets the requirements for your desired grade level.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and formatted correctly.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Ophthalmology Health Technician at the VA?
You will perform diagnostic procedures, assist ophthalmologists during minor surgeries, educate patients on eye care, and help maintain clinical equipment.
Is the COA certification mandatory?
Yes, all applicants must be certified as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) with the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
The position generally requires U.S. Citizenship, though exceptions may be made under specific circumstances as defined by VA policy.
What is the work schedule?
The role operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Desert Pacific Health Care Network prides itself on a 'Whole Health' system of care. We move beyond traditional treatment by partnering with Veterans to create personalized health plans. Working at our North Hills facility means being part of a team that honors the promise to support our nation’s heroes.