Launch Your Career: Health Technician (Optometry) at the VA

Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep commitment to service? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated Health Technician (Optometry) to join our team in Toledo, Ohio. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to support our nation’s heroes in maintaining their ocular health. If you are passionate about patient care and looking to join a high-impact healthcare system, this role is for you.

Job Responsibilities

As a Health Technician (Optometry), your role is central to the daily operations of the eye clinic. You will work closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists to perform the following:

Conducting preliminary diagnostic testing and visual acuity measurements.
Assisting with ophthalmic procedures, including administering eye drops and performing tonometry.
Educating Veterans on vision conditions, contact lens hygiene, and follow-up care.
Maintaining examination rooms and ensuring all medical equipment is cleaned and sterilized according to safety protocols.
Triaging patient calls and requests to ensure the most critical needs are met efficiently.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet several criteria:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Proficient in both written and spoken English.
Must pass a pre-employment physical and security background check.
Adherence to the mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination policy.
Commitment to a 2-year trial period.

Qualifications Comparison Table

Criteria	GS-04 (Entry)	GS-06/07 (Advanced)
Experience	Basic healthcare experience	1+ year specialized optometry support
Education	High school diploma/GED	Specialized training or college credits
Core Duties	Administrative & basic support	Advanced diagnostic testing & patient triaging

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $36,409 to $65,599 per year, depending on the grade level at which you are selected. The VA offers competitive pay aligned with your experience, education, and the responsibilities of the assigned grade level.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Excellent leave programs (annual and sick leave).
Retirement benefits, including a pension and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan.
Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Application Tips

Be Specific: When describing your experience, provide detailed examples of your technical skills, even if the work was volunteer-based.
Don't Rush: Set aside at least 3 hours for the online assessment; it is a critical part of the hiring process.
Organize Documents: Ensure your resume and transcripts are updated and clearly labeled before you start the application.
Check Deadlines: Submit your application well before the closing date to avoid technical issues at the last minute.

Serving our Veterans is a profound responsibility. As a Health Technician (Optometry), you will play a vital role in ensuring that those who served our country receive the high-quality eye care they deserve. We invite you to join our team in Toledo and contribute to a mission of excellence and compassionate care.

Why This Health Technician (Optometry) Job Matters

Launch a meaningful career supporting our nation's heroes by providing expert ophthalmic care within the Veterans Health Administration.

Health Technician (Optometry) Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Optometry) to join our clinical team in Toledo, Ohio. In this vital role, you will assist optometrists and ophthalmologists in delivering high-quality eye care, managing diagnostic procedures, and educating Veterans on their vision health. As part of a collaborative Whole Health System, you will ensure every Veteran receives personalized, compassionate, and efficient clinical support in an environment dedicated to excellence.

Requirements for Health Technician (Optometry)

U.S. Citizenship.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Successful completion of online assessment components.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Completion of a 2-year trial period.
Ability to perform physical tasks including standing, walking, bending, and assisting patients in wheelchairs.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Optometry)

One year of experience in a health technician or assistant role.
Completion of two academic years above high school including 12 semester hours of health technician-related coursework.
Specific knowledge of eye anatomy, ophthalmic hygiene, and basic instrument sterilization.
Experience with diagnostic tools such as lensometers, auto-refractometers, and phoropters.
Ability to perform patient spectacle fitting and minor repairs.
Experience assisting with advanced ocular imaging and testing procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
✓Supportive and inclusive work environment
✓Access to the VA Whole Health System resources

💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Optometry) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Health Technician (Optometry) Job

Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a detailed resume documenting relevant experience and education.
Submit your online application and complete the required questionnaire.
Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts or SF-50 forms.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments within the provided deadline.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS application portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your experience, including any volunteer work, as we cannot make assumptions about your background.
Submit your application and all supporting documents before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Review your application for accuracy before submitting; omissions can impact your eligibility.
Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment process to ensure you are not rushed.
If you have a disability, familiarize yourself with the reasonable accommodation process before beginning assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Health Technician (Optometry)?

You will assist eye care providers with diagnostic procedures, perform visual acuity testing, manage clinic supplies, educate patients, and ensure a smooth flow of clinic operations.

Do I need a specific certification to apply?

No specific licensure or certification is required for this position; however, you must meet the education or experience requirements outlined in the vacancy announcement.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?

U.S. citizenship is required; non-citizens may only be appointed if it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens.

What is the main focus of this position?

Providing direct support to eye care providers and Veterans through diagnostic procedures and patient education.

Do I need prior experience in optometry?

While experience is preferred, the VA considers educational qualifications and combinations of training that demonstrate your ability to perform clinical tasks.

Can I apply after the closing date?

No, all applications must be submitted by the closing date listed in the announcement.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. Working with the VA means you are part of a Whole Health System that prioritizes not just treatment, but the overall well-being of Veterans, empowering them to live their lives to the fullest.