Receptionist / Optometric Assistant
VisionWorks Optometry is seeking a warm, capable and highly accountable Receptionist / Optometric Assistant to join our team.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys helping people, takes pride in doing things well and can confidently manage their responsibilities without needing someone standing over their shoulder.
You will be one of the first people our patients meet while also supporting our optometrists by completing accurate and efficient preliminary testing.
Experience in optometry or healthcare is an asset, but it is not required. We are prepared to train the right person—the one who brings kindness, initiative, attention to detail and a genuine desire to learn.
This is a full-time, in-person position working five days per week, and may include Saturdays.
About VisionWorks Optometry
VisionWorks Optometry is a locally owned, boutique optometry clinic in the Comox Valley where exceptional eye care meets exceptional style.
Using advanced technology and offering a distinctive selection of eyewear, our team delivers professional, personalized care in a welcoming and fashion-forward environment. We take pride in creating an exceptional experience for our patients and a workplace where people genuinely enjoy being part of the team.
What We Offer
- Meaningful Patient Connections: Help patients feel welcomed, comfortable and cared for throughout their visit.
- Comprehensive Training: Learn the systems, technology and preliminary testing procedures required to succeed in the role.
- Professional Growth: Develop valuable skills in patient service, clinic operations and optometric care.
- A Supportive Team: Work with people who care about their patients, take pride in their work and help one another succeed.
- Fashion-Forward Environment: Be part of a boutique clinic known for its distinctive collection of fashionable, independent and designer eyewear.
- Compensation & Benefits: This position pays $22.00 to $25.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. We also offer a yearly Health Spending Account and Great Eyewear Perks!
Core Responsibilities
Patient Experience & Front Desk
- Welcome patients promptly and create a friendly, professional first impression.
- Answer telephone, email and website inquiries courteously and efficiently.
- Schedule, confirm and manage patient appointments.
- Collect and update patient information while protecting confidentiality.
- Receive payments, process direct billing and submit insurance claims.
- Respond to patient questions and provide clear information about appointments, services and orders.
- Maintain accurate electronic patient, billing and financial records.
- Monitor appointment flow and communicate delays or scheduling concerns.
- Keep the reception area organized, tidy and presentable.
- Address routine patient concerns and involve the appropriate team member when additional support is required.
- Support a seamless patient experience from arrival through departure.
Pre-Testing
- Prepare patients for their appointments and explain each stage of the pre-testing process.
- Complete preliminary testing accurately and efficiently using clinic equipment and established procedures.
- Record test results and relevant patient information correctly in the electronic patient record.
- Review required health information before the examination and identify anything requiring the optometrist’s attention.
- Prepare, clean and maintain pre-testing rooms and equipment between patients.
- Follow infection prevention, privacy, safety and equipment-handling procedures.
- Monitor patient comfort throughout testing and respond appropriately to questions or concerns.
- Communicate testing results and relevant observations to the optometrist.
- Participate in training and maintain competency as equipment, technology and procedures evolve.
Team & Clinic Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively with optometrists, opticians, leadership and other team members.
- Communicate directly and respectfully to resolve questions or concerns.
- Participate in team meetings, training and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain reliable attendance, punctuality and professional presentation.
- Identify problems, recommend solutions and follow through on commitments.
- Support clinic priorities and complete other reasonable duties related to the position.
What We’re Looking For
Our ideal candidate will possess:
- A genuine interest in helping people and creating an exceptional patient experience.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Confidence using computers, electronic records and office technology.
- Strong organization and time-management skills.
- The ability to manage competing priorities while remaining calm and professional.
- Sound judgment and respect for patient privacy and confidentiality.
- The ability to work independently, take initiative and follow through.
- A willingness to learn and safely operate pre-testing equipment.
How We Work
Our values are not just words on a wall. They describe what we expect from ourselves and one another.
- Be Kind: Make every patient and team member feel seen, valued and cared for.
- Be Accountable: Take ownership, follow through and solve problems.
- Raise the Bar: Do great work, keep improving and help those around you get better.
- Have Style: Create experiences that help people see well and feel fantastic.
- Skip the Drama: Speak directly, assume good intent and leave gossip at the door.
How to Apply (Read This Carefully)
We do things a little differently... on purpose.
To apply, please submit one complete PDF that includes both:
- Your résumé.
- Your cover letter.
Your cover letter must include the words “Purple Monkeys.”
Why? Because attention to detail matters in this role. We want to see how you communicate, follow instructions and present yourself when no one is standing over your shoulder.
In your cover letter, please also tell us:
- Why this opportunity interests you.
- What exceptional patient service means to you.
- An accomplishment that you are particularly proud of.
Applications submitted without a cover letter, without the words “Purple Monkeys,” or as separate files rather than one complete PDF will not be considered.
We promise this isn’t a trick. It is simply a practical way for us to identify candidates who are organized, pay attention to detail, communicate effectively and follow instructions—all essential qualities for a Receptionist / Optometric Assistant.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $22.00-$25.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
