Orthoptist

Department Overview

The Elks Children’s Eye Clinic at Casey Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology at OHSU, is currently seeking a full-time certified or board-eligible orthoptist to work with our current group of 6 Pediatric Ophthalmologists, 1 Pediatric Optometrist, and 6 Orthoptists. As an academic department, we have a pediatric fellowship and are involved in the ophthalmology residency training.  Our primary goal is excellent patient care, with clinical research being done through the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group (PEDIG). We also have an AACO-approved orthoptic training program.  The orthoptists evaluate and assist in treating pediatric and adult patients with strabismus seen in the pediatric ophthalmology practice or referred from other Casey Eye providers, co-manage patients undergoing amblyopia treatment, perform strabismus exams for clinical trials, and teach basic exam skills to residents and fellows.

Function/Duties of Position

The duties of this position include: perform orthoptic exams on all patients in the strabismus clinic for the purpose of diagnosis and progress studies; devise a therapeutic plan for selected returning amblyopia and strabismus patients and perform office treatment and monitor progress.  

Perform other duties as assigned.  Consultation with ophthalmologist is required; instruct and advise patient or parents regarding home therapy for amblyopia and strabismus; conduct the initial phase of scheduled new patient pediatric ophthalmic examination, including history, visual acuity, and screening orthoptic examination; screen prospective new pediatric ophthalmology patients to permit assignments of appointment priority; provide orthoptic consultative services by appointment to OHSU physicians  and, when schedule time permits, to outside private ophthalmologists; assist in any ophthalmology clinic as needed, except when this conflicts with pediatric ophthalmology clinics; participate in teaching nurses, medical students, orthoptic students, residents, fellows and practicing ophthalmologists the basic skills of strabismus diagnosis and the value of orthoptic evaluation; assist the physicians in clinical research in the physiology of binocular vision and the pathophysiology of amblyopia and strabismologic; and categorize diagnostically, pediatric ophthalmologic and strabismologic clinical records for the purpose of data retrieval. 

Maintains current knowledge of all ophthalmic pediatric ophthalmology clinical trials, their study protocols, and eligibility, enrollment and randomization criteria.

Research Support for Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group (PEDIG):

Support for Strabismus Pre- and Post- Photos Project

High Level Disinfection and Sterilization

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in relevant field AND Orthoptist certification (CO) AND 3 years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Outstanding interpersonal and patient relations skills. Detail-oriented and meticulous in all aspects of work.  Strong follow-through skills and ability to proactively identify and solve problems. Requires excellent organizational skills, strong written and verbal communication skills with physicians/researchers. Exceptional database management abilities.  The ability to multi-task is critical. The ability to work well with team members is essential.  Strong  customer service and teaming skills are essential.   The ability to plan and organize technical work and to adapt to a changing work environment is critical.   Must be able to assess and develop work tasks and systems in order to optimize performance. Familiarity with research design, statistics and use of computers for research is preferred.  Proficiency with computer applications such as Microsoft Windows, Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and related computer applications.  Basic computer keyboard skills including typing of at least 30-45 WPM.  Must complete (or have completed) required EpicCare training.  Upon completion of Epiccare, must be able to accurately abstract patient data from existing paper charts into EpicCare and must have/maintain a working knowledge and use of EpicCare system.  Ability to work independently; willingness to serve as a positive and professional role model.  Must have demonstrated record of reliable attendance, punctuality, and proven successful performance in past and present. 

Must be certified by the American Orthoptic Council. 

BLS certification through American Heart Association (AHA), provider level. Initial certification is the responsibility of the employee. Renewal certification classes/cost provided by OHSU if job required.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in pediatrics and an academic environment is preferred.

All are welcome

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu. As an organization devoted to the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond, OHSU requires its employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.