Jobs › Mercyhealth

Ophthalmic Technician

Mercyhealth · McHenry, IL · $19.40–$34.10 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 28, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

The posting says on-the-job training is provided. How do you learn new technical skills quickly?

What they are checking: Whether they can absorb training and practice carefully, since many skills will be new.

Tell me about a time you used medical terminology to communicate with a provider.

What they are checking: Whether they are comfortable with healthcare language, which the posting says is ideal.

Tell me about a time you helped an older or anxious patient through a test.

What they are checking: Whether they are patient and kind with people who may have low vision or fear.

What would you do

A patient calls saying they suddenly see flashes and a curtain over one eye. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they recognize a possible retinal detachment and get the patient seen urgently.

How do you keep patients moving through the clinic when the schedule is backed up?

What they are checking: Whether they manage flow and communicate with waiting patients and doctors.

How would you explain dilating drops to a patient who has to drive home?

What they are checking: Whether they educate patients clearly about practical effects and safety.

How do you handle telephone triage when you're not sure how urgent something is?

What they are checking: Whether they follow protocol and check with a provider rather than guessing.

About the work

Walk me through how you work up a patient before the doctor sees them.

What they are checking: Whether they collect history, visual acuity and pressures in an organized way that keeps the clinic on time.

What eye tests have you done, such as visual fields, A/B scans or refraction?

What they are checking: Whether they have hands-on experience with the specific tests the posting lists.

What do you check before giving eye drops or medications to a patient?

What they are checking: Whether they confirm allergies, the right eye and the right drug every time.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Mercyhealth.

OVERVIEW Provide hands-on patient care by preparing patients for exams, assisting physicians during procedures, and performing specialized eye tests. Support a smooth patient flow by documenting care, answering calls, and educating patients and families about their treatment. Help maintain high-quality care by following up with patients and supporting daily clinic operations. Put your healthcare knowledge to work While we provide on-the-job training, this position is ideal for candidates familiar with medical terminology and general healthcare processes. We have several openings throughout McHenry County. Apply today! ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Responsible for patient care. • Rooms and collects patient assessment data. • Administers medications and performs other patient care procedures as directed and according to established criteria. • Assists physicians during treatment, testing, refractometry and examinations. • Performs retinoscopy, refractometry, A/B scans, photography, fluorescein angiography, corneal/disc topography, assists in surgery, low vision evaluations, visual fields, and applanations. • Maintains timely flow of patients. • Provides patient and family education. • Documents patient care and related information. • Responds to incoming telephone calls. • Performs telephone triaging of patients. • Follows up on patient care as needed. Reviews and maintains charts. • Participates in QA & I. • May be required to work alternate shifts and weekends. • Performs other duties as assigned. CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations: Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals. Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions. Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals. Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE • High School diploma. • Prefer education as a paraprofessional in ophthalmology or optometry. CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSURE Certified by JCAHPO as a technician required. SKILLS AND ABILITIES Good interpersonal/communicative skills needed. SPECIAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move patients/equipment. Good eye/hand coordination and manual dexterity needed. LEVEL OF SUPERVISION N/A SUPERVISES This job has no supervisory responsibilities. PAY RANGE: $19.40 - $34.10 Mercyhealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer . All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Mercyhealth offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package including: • Medical, Dental, Vision • Life & Disability Insurance • FSA/HSA Options • Generous, accruing paid time off • Paid Parental and caregiver leave • Career advancement and educational opportunities • Tuition and certification reimbursement • Certification Reimbursement • Well-being Programs • Employee Discounts • On-Demand Pay • Financial Education • Annual recognition/awards events • Partner appreciation days • Family entertainment/attractions discount • Community service/improvement opportunities Click here for more details regarding Mercyhealth Careers Benefit Information. At Mercyhealth, we don’t simply hire people, we empower employee-partners who are passionate about making lives better. As an integrated health system, we deliver exceptional, coordinated across seven hospitals, 85 primary and specialty clinics, and a team of over 7,500 professionals serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Mercyhealth has been nationally recognized for our commitment to our people and culture, including: • #1 in the nation on AARP's Best Employers for Workers Over 50 • One of Working Mother magazine's 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers • A Top 50 Company and Top 10 Nonprofit for Executive Women

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