Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
The Senior Ophthalmic Technician to support the dystrophy team by independently performing electroretinography (ERG) and related specialized ophthalmic diagnostic testing. Responsibilities include reviewing test orders, preparing and educating patients, obtaining accurate and reproducible results, documenting testing in the electronic health record, and promptly communicating concerns to the clinical team. The technician maintains and troubleshoots equipment, follows infection-control and safety protocols, supports patient flow, and assists with staff training and quality-improvement initiatives. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and compassionate care for patients with inherited and acquired retinal dystrophies.
Responsibilities*
Independently perform full-field, multifocal, and pattern electroretinography (ERG) and other specialized ophthalmic diagnostic tests according to established protocols.Review test orders and relevant clinical information to verify the appropriate testing procedure.Prepare and educate patients about testing procedures, answer questions, and promote patient comfort and cooperation throughout the examination.Complete required light and dark adaptation procedures and place electrodes using appropriate safety and infection-control practices.Obtain accurate, reliable, and reproducible results by monitoring test quality, identifying artifacts, and repeating recordings when necessary.Recognize unexpected or urgent findings and promptly notify the supervising ophthalmologist or clinical team.Accurately document procedures, patient responses, technical limitations, and test completion in the electronic health record.Upload, label, and route test data appropriately for physician review while maintaining patient confidentiality.Clean, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot ERG equipment, electrodes, and related testing supplies.Monitor inventory and coordinate the ordering, replacement, or repair of equipment and supplies.Follow departmental, safety, infection-prevention, and manufacturer protocols.Coordinate ERG appointments and support efficient patient flow for the retinal dystrophy service.Collaborate with ophthalmologists, nurses, genetic counselors, photographers, and other members of the multidisciplinary care team.Train, mentor, and assess the competency of ophthalmic technicians and other designated personnel in ERG preparation, testing techniques, documentation, equipment operation, and equipment care.Develop or update training materials, standard operating procedures, and competency checklists for ERG testing.Provide ongoing coaching and refresher training to promote consistent, high-quality testing practices.Participate in quality-assurance activities, protocol development, workflow improvements, and continuing education.Perform additional senior-level ophthalmic technician duties within the position?s established scope of practice.
Required Qualifications*
- Graduation from high school
- Minimum of 10 years of experience as an Ophthalmic Technician is required.
- Certification as an Ophthalmic Technician (COT) through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology is required.
- This classification requires Primary Source Verification.
Desired Qualifications*
- Two years of college with courses in the health science area
- Certification as an Ophthalmic Medical Technician (COMT) through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology.
- Experience with clinical research
Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world?s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
- Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
- 2:1 Match on retirement savings
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals (UMMAP), which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment.
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.