Advance Your Career as a Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) in San Diego
Are you a skilled ophthalmic professional looking to make a difference in the lives of military service members? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) at the Naval Branch Health Clinic in Point Loma, California. This vital role contributes to the mission of providing world-class medical support to our Joint Force.
Job Responsibilities
The Health Technician will serve as a key member of the refractive surgery team. Responsibilities include:
- Clinical Diagnostics: Performing precise preoperative and postoperative evaluations for surgical patients.
- Surgical Support: Assisting the surgical staff during procedures and ensuring the operating room is fully prepared.
- Patient Care: Obtaining ocular and general medical histories and administering medications under physician supervision.
- Imaging: Conducting ophthalmic photography and retinal angiography using advanced digital imaging systems.
- Collaboration: Participating in departmental meetings to review patient care protocols and treatment plans.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent, performing diagnostic testing and surgical assistance.
- Certification: Must hold a valid Certified Ophthalmic Technician or Assistant certification from the JCAHPO.
- Security & Conduct: Ability to pass a drug screening and obtain a Secret security clearance.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-07 |
| Annual Salary | $57,641 - $74,935 |
| Location | Point Loma, San Diego, CA |
| Job Category | Health Aid and Technician |
Benefits of Federal Employment
Employees of the DHA enjoy a robust benefits package, including competitive health, dental, and vision insurance options, the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and a generous Thrift Savings Plan. Furthermore, qualified candidates may be eligible for salary negotiation upon initial hire and potential recruitment or relocation incentives.
Application Tips for Success
- Focus on Quality: Ensure your resume clearly states your hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Formatting Matters: The resume must be two pages or less. Overly long resumes will not be reviewed.
- Documents: Do not forget to attach your professional certifications and, if applicable, your academic transcripts.
- Check Status: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your application status throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this a permanent position?
Yes, this is a federal position subject to a one-year probationary period.
Are there opportunities for professional growth?
Working with the DHA offers significant opportunities to gain experience within a complex federal medical environment, enhancing your career trajectory in ocular healthcare.
If you have the technical skills and the passion to serve those who serve our country, the Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) role in San Diego is an ideal career move. Apply today to contribute to the mission of the Defense Health Agency.
Why This Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) Job Matters
Launch your career in specialized clinical care! The Defense Health Agency is seeking a skilled Health Technician to join the Ophthalmic team in beautiful San Diego, supporting those who serve.
Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency at the Naval Branch Health Clinic in Point Loma, San Diego, is looking for a dedicated Health Technician (Refractive Surgery). This role is critical to maintaining the readiness of our military personnel through expert ophthalmic support, including diagnostic testing, surgical assistance, and comprehensive patient care. This is a direct hire opportunity with a competitive salary and the chance to contribute to a world-class, integrated healthcare system.
Requirements for Health Technician (Refractive Surgery)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Experience performing diagnostic eye tests and assisting surgeons during eye procedures.
- Ability to maintain patient ocular and general medical history records.
- Must possess a valid job-related license or certification (Certified Ophthalmic Technician or Assistant by JCAHPO).
- Must pass a drug test and hold a Secret security clearance.
- Must complete a pre-employment certification for Selective Service if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Refractive Surgery)
- Direct experience in ophthalmic photography and retinal angiography.
- Proficiency in operating digital imaging systems for interior segment photography.
- Experience in postoperative patient care and treatment planning.
- Completion of graduate-level education in Ophthalmic Technology.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary with Locality Pay
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
- ✓Salary negotiation options for new federal employees
- ✓Advanced leave accrual eligibility
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Refractive Surgery) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, clearly detailing your specialized experience and hours worked per week.
- Submit all required documents, including transcripts and your professional certification/license.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date of 09/10/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages maximum; resumes exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume includes employer names, job titles, and specific dates of employment.
- Quantify your experience by including the number of hours worked per week for each position.
- Upload your certification/license documents early to allow time for system virus scans.
- Use plain, professional language and avoid obscure acronyms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located at the Naval Branch Health Clinic in Point Loma, San Diego, and requires on-site presence.
Can I use foreign education to qualify?
Yes, but you must provide an evaluation from a private organization that deems the education equivalent to a U.S.-accredited program.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This role requires a Secret security clearance and a background investigation due to its noncritical-sensitive/moderate risk status.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system that delivers essential medical services across the Department of Defense. From combat support to routine medical and dental care for over 9.5 million uniformed members and their families, the DHA is dedicated to building readiness and improving patient outcomes worldwide. By joining our team, you become a strategic partner in a mission that extends across the globe.