Launch Your Career: Optometry Health Technician at the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Health Administration is hiring multiple Health Technicians (Optometry) to serve our nation's Veterans. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals with a passion for vision care and patient service. As a federal employee, you will be joining a team committed to excellence and the "whole health" philosophy.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a vital link in the optometry clinic. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Performing complex optical measurements using both digital and manual instruments.
- Conducting frame adjustments, repairs, and ensuring proper eyewear fit.
- Supporting clinical workflow, including pre-exam readiness and imaging prep.
- Providing patient education on vision care and lens adaptation.
- Maintaining clinical inventory and adhering to HIPAA regulations for patient data.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficient in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a drug screen and background investigation.
- Participation in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Salary Overview
The GS-7 position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $65,599 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
| Pay Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | $50,460 - $65,599 |
Benefits
- Comprehensive insurance (health, dental, vision, life).
- Generous leave (13-26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays).
- Federal pension plan and 401(k)-style retirement savings.
- Child care subsidies for qualifying employees.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is comprehensive and highlights your specific technical skills, such as using lensometers or fitting frames. Always double-check your application for completeness before the deadline.
Serving those who have served is a deeply rewarding experience. If you have the technical skills and the desire to give back, apply today to start your journey with the VA.
Why This Health Technician (Optometry) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career providing vital vision care to our nation's heroes as a Health Technician (Optometry) with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Health Technician (Optometry) Job Overview
The Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Health Administration is seeking detail-oriented, compassionate professionals to join our clinical team as Health Technicians (Optometry). In this role, you will play a critical part in the delivery of eye care services, assisting Veterans with everything from preliminary optical measurements and frame adjustments to patient education and clinical workflow support. This position offers a stable, mission-driven environment where your technical expertise directly impacts the quality of life for those who have served.
Requirements for Health Technician (Optometry)
- U.S. Citizenship requirement.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Completion of a background and security investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Optometry)
- One year of hands-on experience in optical dispensing or ophthalmic support.
- Demonstrated ability to perform precise optical measurements including pupillary distance, segment height, and base curves.
- Proficiency in fitting, adjusting, repairing, and troubleshooting eyewear.
- Strong customer service skills with the ability to provide clear patient education.
- Experience in verifying ophthalmic prescriptions and identifying fabrication discrepancies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Annual paid time off including 13-26 days of vacation, 13 sick days, and 11 Federal holidays.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Child care subsidy program for those who qualify.
- ✓Federal pension plan and 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan with 5% matching.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance options.
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the VA system.
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Optometry) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Optometry) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume highlighting your optometry-related experience.
- Complete the required online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, such as transcripts or SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to reflect the specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) listed in the job announcement.
- Ensure your long-form resume details both paid and volunteer experience.
- Double-check that all required documents, including transcripts if applicable, are attached before clicking submit.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests from the hiring office.
- Use the USAJOBS status portal to check the current progress of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Optometry Health Technician at the VA?
You will serve as a support specialist, conducting optical measurements, assisting in clinic readiness, repairing eyewear, and educating Veterans on their eye health and care.
Are there opportunities for remote work?
No, this is an on-site clinical position requiring direct interaction with patients and optical equipment at VA facilities.
What educational qualifications are needed?
You can qualify through a combination of relevant experience or education, such as two years of post-high school education with specific health technician coursework, or military-trained medical experience.
Is travel required?
*A: Occasional travel may be required between assigned community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs).*
Do I need a specific certification?
*A: While no specific national certification is listed as a prerequisite, documented experience in optical dispensing is highly preferred.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln to care for those who have served in the military. Working for the VA means joining an organization that values integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and excellence. Whether in a hospital or a community-based outpatient clinic, you will work in an environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of our heroes.