The Orthoptist reports to the manager of the Orthoptics Clinic. The incumbent is responsible for the investigation, diagnosis and orthoptic treatment of children and adults with abnormalities of eye movement, eye alignment and/or binocular vision. The position requires expert familiarity with all modern orthoptic examination tests and techniques in the areas of vision testing (verbal and nonverbal via quantitative and qualitative techniques and tests), assessment and measurement of binocular status, eye movement testing, measurement and documentation of strabismus, and refraction/retinoscopy (cycloplegic and manifest using both phoropters and/or trial lenses; subjective refinement as needed) and orthoptic treatment.

Duties:

• Performing orthoptic examinations on children and adults (including those who may experience emotional, social, cognitive and behavioral difficulties);
• Determining appropriate tests and techniques in order to meet the needs of each patient's unique situation;
• Refraction of children and adults via manifest and/or cycloplegic techniques (strong ability to refract infants and toddlers with trial lenses is imperative);
• Meticulous and organized documentation of all test results;
• Compilation of written reports that synthesize and summarize findings, including diagnosis and recommended treatment plan;
• Initiating and carrying out appropriate orthoptic treatments using lenses, patching, prisms and exercises;
• Making recommendations to referring physician regarding medical and surgical treatments;
• Reviewing and triaging new patient referrals in order to ensure appropriate, timely and safe care are provided;
• Providing guidance and support to clerical staff to ensure patients are booked in a manner that leads to safe and effective care and treatment;
• Consulting with other health and educational professionals as required in cases needing multi-disciplinary care;
• Giving expert advice and guidance to other professionals in all matters related to vision;
• Administering and supervising clinical placement opportunities for student orthoptists from the Dalhousie University Master of Clinical Vision Science Program;
• Offering clinical educational opportunities to students of other health professions including nursing, medicine, and optometry and providing training as requested to other professionals;
• Liaising with education professionals regarding students in the school system referred for care;
• Seeking out and completing continuing education opportunities in order to meet Canadian Orthoptic Council requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of Post-Baccalaureate Orthoptics Fellowship Program with a Masters Degree in Clinical Vision Science or equivalent.
• Active certification from the Canadian Orthoptic Council (requires completion of national written, oral, and practical examinations).
• Demonstrated excellence in oral and written communication.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Other Qualifications:

• A proven ability to work well with children and adults.
• Additional relevant education and experience will be considered an asset.

Health PEI values the different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds that a diverse, equitable and inclusive work-place culture can bring. Not only does this help us deliver better outcomes, more innovation, but it also creates a safer space for our patients when our employees are more reflective of the communities we serve. It is important for us to create an environment where our employees are comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work and challenging the status quo to make Health PEI a better more inclusive employer and healthcare system. We recognize we have more work to do but finding intentional ways to grow our understanding and support of those who have faced barriers due to accessibility, ethnicity, ancestry, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, language or other grounds is a key priority for us. We encourage underrepresented groups to join our team, be yourself, and help us achieve our vision for an inclusive workplace and healthcare system.

Salary Range: $36.70 - $45.90 hourly (LMA Adjustment)

Bi-Weekly Hours: 75 Hours Bi-Weekly / Monday to Friday with Possible Evenings / Weekends.

Please ensure the application clearly demonstrates how you meet the noted qualifications as applicants will be screened based on the information provided. We would like to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted.