Orthoptist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of eye health and vision care, the role of orthoptists is increasingly significant.

As the demand for specialized eye care grows, there is an increasing need for skilled professionals who can assess, diagnose, and manage disorders related to eye movements and vision development.

So, let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an orthoptist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the nuances of orthoptics,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable orthoptist job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it right away.

Orthoptist Duties and Responsibilities

Orthoptists specialize in diagnosing and treating visual problems and conditions associated with eye movement disorders and imbalances.

They work directly with patients and have a significant role in the management of various eye disorders.

Orthoptists hold the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluating patients who may have disorders of vision, eye movements, or eye alignment
• Planning and delivering appropriate treatment regimes for patients, this could include exercises, prismatic glasses, occlusion therapy, or even recommending surgery
• Monitoring the progress of patients through regular check-ups
• Carrying out detailed assessments and tests to monitor visual acuity, eye movements, and the ability to see depth and color
• Working closely with ophthalmologists to help diagnose and treat ocular diseases
• Educating patients and their families about their conditions and treatment plans
• Being involved in the management and care of patients with long-term conditions such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration
• Providing expert advice to other healthcare professionals
• Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records

 

Orthoptist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Orthoptist to join our healthcare team.

The Orthoptist will be responsible for diagnosing and treating patients with visual system disorders and diseases, particularly related to eye movements and alignment.

The responsibilities include performing eye and vision tests, diagnosing sight issues, planning treatment and providing therapeutic intervention for patients with conditions like lazy eye (amblyopia), squint (strabismus), double vision, and eye movement disorders.

Our ideal candidate has a thorough understanding of eye health and experience working with patients of all ages.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform thorough eye and vision tests to diagnose vision disorders and eye diseases
• Provide treatment plans for patients with conditions such as lazy eye (amblyopia), squint (strabismus), double vision, and eye movement disorders
• Perform therapeutic interventions and non-surgical treatments
• Collaborate with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other healthcare professionals
• Educate patients and their families on their conditions and treatment plans
• Keep detailed patient records and monitor patient progress
• Assist in research studies related to eye health and vision disorders

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Orthoptist or similar role in healthcare
• Advanced knowledge of eye health and vision disorders
• Ability to perform thorough eye and vision tests
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach
• Ability to manage patient records and maintain confidentiality
• BSc degree in Orthoptics, Vision Science or related field
• Current licensure to practice Orthoptics

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education assistance
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Orthoptist
• Work Environment: Hospital or private practice setting. May require occasional travel for continuing education.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Ophthalmology or Lead Orthoptist.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, market, and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Orthoptist Do?

Orthoptists are specialized healthcare professionals who work primarily in diagnosing and managing disorders that affect eye movements and alignment, such as squint, lazy eye, and double vision.

They assess, diagnose, and treat abnormalities of eye movement and binocular vision, including strabismus (crossed eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eyes).

Orthoptists often work closely with ophthalmologists, contributing to the wider care of the patient, especially when the eye condition is part of a broader health issue.

They conduct visual screenings, eye examinations, and patient consultations.

They also interpret test results and create treatment plans which can include exercises, optical aids, prisms, occlusion therapy, or referral for surgery.

Orthoptists may also provide advice and counseling to patients and their families to help them understand and manage their condition.

In some settings, orthoptists may participate in research or teaching roles, helping to advance the understanding and treatment of vision disorders.

They are trained to work with patients of all ages but are particularly experienced in working with children, who often have these types of vision problems.

 

Orthoptist Qualifications and Skills

An orthoptist should possess a unique blend of technical knowledge, soft skills, and a keen understanding of the human visual system.

Key skills and qualifications for an orthoptist may include:

• Exceptional understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the eye to diagnose and treat a range of visual and eye movement disorders.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret clinical findings and develop patient-specific treatment plans.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively explain complex medical concepts to patients and their families, as well as to liaise with other healthcare professionals.
• Patience and compassion to work with patients of all ages, especially children and those with special needs.
• Good manual dexterity and precision to perform diagnostic tests and procedures.
• Problem-solving skills to efficiently identify and manage unexpected situations or complications that may arise during the course of treatment.
• Ability to stay updated with latest advancements in orthoptic and ophthalmic research and treatment methods.
• Good organization and record-keeping skills to maintain accurate patient records and schedules.

 

Orthoptist Experience Requirements

Orthoptists generally require an undergraduate degree in a related field, such as biology or psychology, before undertaking a postgraduate course in Orthoptics.

This postgraduate course typically spans for two years and involves both theoretical and practical training.

Entry-level orthoptists may have 1 to 2 years of clinical experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in medical clinics or hospitals.

This practical experience is essential to gain the skills necessary to diagnose and treat various eye movement disorders and vision problems.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often spent considerable time working in hospitals, clinics or optometrist offices, honing their diagnostic and treatment skills.

They may have also been involved in the management of patient care, which involves developing tailored treatment plans for patients.

Orthoptists with more than 5 years of experience may have taken on leadership roles within their clinics or hospitals, supervising and mentoring less experienced colleagues.

At this stage, they may also have conducted research in the field, contributing to the development of new diagnostic tools and treatment methods.

 

Orthoptist Education and Training Requirements

Orthoptists are required to complete a bachelor’s degree, often in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or neuroscience.

Following undergraduate studies, individuals interested in becoming Orthoptists must complete an accredited postgraduate orthoptic program.

These programs typically last two years and combine classroom instruction with clinical experience.

Upon successful completion of the program, the individual is awarded a certificate in Orthoptics.

After graduation, Orthoptists are required to sit for a certification exam administered by the American Orthoptic Council.

The exam consists of written, oral, and practical components, and successful candidates are awarded certification as an Orthoptist.

Continuing education is also important in this field, as it allows Orthoptists to keep abreast of new technologies and techniques.

Many choose to attend professional development courses, workshops, or conferences, and some may even pursue further specializations within the field.

In some jurisdictions, state licensure may also be required.

These licensure requirements vary by state but generally involve passing a state-administered exam and demonstrating a certain number of hours of clinical experience.

 

Orthoptist Salary Expectations

An Orthoptist earns an average salary of $74,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary depending on several factors such as work experience, level of education, and geographical location.

Further, an orthoptist working in a private healthcare setting might earn more than those working in public healthcare.

Additionally, orthoptists with additional specializations or skills might also command higher salaries.

 

Orthoptist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Orthoptist need?

Orthoptists should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

They need to be highly observant and possess good hand-eye coordination as they conduct eye tests and administer treatments.

Problem-solving skills are also crucial as they will need to diagnose and plan treatment strategies for various eye conditions.

 

Do Orthoptists need a degree?

Yes, Orthoptists usually need a degree in Orthoptics or a related healthcare field.

In addition to this, they must be registered with a relevant professional body, such as the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus or the British and Irish Orthoptic Society.

Some Orthoptists also choose to undertake postgraduate training to specialize in certain areas.

 

What should you look for in an Orthoptist resume?

A good Orthoptist resume should show evidence of a degree in Orthoptics or a related field and registration with a relevant professional body.

Check for experience in a clinical setting, as this demonstrates practical skills and a knowledge of patient care.

It’s also valuable to look for continuous professional development or specialist training in specific areas of orthoptics.

 

What qualities make a good Orthoptist?

A good Orthoptist should be patient and compassionate, as they often work with children and patients who may be anxious or distressed.

They need to have an excellent eye for detail as they will be conducting precise eye examinations and treatments.

Good Orthoptists should also be committed to ongoing learning to stay up to date with the latest developments in eye care.

 

Is it difficult to hire Orthoptists?

Hiring Orthoptists can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

The pool of candidates is often smaller than for other healthcare professions.

To attract the right candidates, it may be necessary to offer competitive salaries, strong professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the core realities of being an Orthoptist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about diagnosing and treating visual problems.

It’s about shaping the future of eye health, one patient at a time.

With our go-to Orthoptist job description template and hands-on examples, you’re all set to take the plunge.

But why halt your journey here?

Take the next step with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of the broader picture.

Let’s craft that future. Together.

How to Become an Orthoptist (Complete Guide)

From Odd to Awesome: The Weirdest Jobs You Can Imagine

Employment Explosion: The Most In-Demand Jobs of the Year

Elite Endeavors: The Most Prestigious Jobs in the Modern Era

Earn Like a King: 2025’s Guide to the Most Rewarding Jobs!