The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is hiring experienced and dedicated Health Technicians (Opticians) to support optical shop operations at the Dallas, Texas VA Medical Center and multiple outpatient clinics across the Dallas area. This opportunity is ideal for candidates who have experience in optical services and are passionate about providing quality support to Veterans.
Job Overview
The selected candidates will play an important role in managing daily optical operations while working closely with eye clinic providers, prosthetics teams, and patients. The position focuses on delivering excellent customer service, handling eyewear fittings, processing orders, and ensuring accurate optical measurements.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service and Patient Support
Candidates will greet customers, assist them in selecting eyeglass frames, explain pricing and product options, and provide estimated delivery timelines. Maintaining a professional and welcoming environment is an important part of the role.
Eyewear Fitting and Measurements
The position requires performing eyewear fittings and taking accurate measurements using optical tools and equipment such as lensometers and pupilometers. Employees must also document patient information within the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS).
Order Processing and Sales Assistance
Employees will process eyewear orders, collect payments, prepare required paperwork, and enter order details into contractor and VA systems. The role also includes recommending suitable lens upgrades and additional eyewear products through a professional consultative approach.
Coordination and Problem Resolution
The selected candidate will work with clinics, laboratories, prosthetics staff, and vendors to track eyewear orders and resolve issues related to delays, damage, or missing items. Customer concerns must be handled professionally and escalated when required.
Inventory and Merchandise Management
Responsibilities also include maintaining organized displays, monitoring inventory, handling merchandise pricing, and protecting company assets.
Employment Conditions
Candidates selected for this position must complete a one-year trial period. During this time, the agency will evaluate performance, conduct, and overall contribution to organizational goals.
Additional employment conditions include:
- Selective Service registration for eligible males born after December 31, 1959
- Background and security investigation clearance
- Possession of a valid REAL ID
Required Qualifications
Certification and Experience
Applicants must have an active American Board of Opticianry (ABO) Certification or obtain it within 90 days of employment at the expense of VCS. A minimum of one year of experience as an Optician is required.
Technical Skills
Candidates should have strong knowledge of optical tools and equipment, including:
- Lensometer
- Lens clock
- Frame heater
- PD ruler and pupilometer
- Thickness caliper
- Vertex densometer
- Adjustment and bench tools
- Visual acuity charts
Optical Knowledge
Applicants must be capable of identifying prescription discrepancies, verifying optical accuracy, and resolving issues related to frame fitting, optical center alignment, and segment height measurements.
Education Requirement
A high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is required for this position.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the USAJOBS portal. Applicants must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit all required documents before the application deadline.
The application package may include:
- Resume
- SF-50 (if applicable)
- Performance appraisal
- Separation notice (if applicable)
- Educational transcripts (if using education for qualification)
Applications must be submitted before 11:59 PM (ET) on June 5, 2026.
Important Information for Applicants
Applicants should ensure all information provided in the application is accurate and complete. Incomplete applications or missing documents may affect eligibility and consideration for the position.
Qualified Veterans will receive full consideration for the role, although traditional Veterans’ Preference rules do not apply under 38 U.S.C. 7802.
Contact Information
Applicants who need assistance regarding the position may contact:
Nastashia Johnson
Phone: 314-845-1239
Email: Nastashia.Johnson@va.gov
Final Words
The Veterans Canteen Service Health Technician (Optician) position offers a valuable opportunity for skilled optical professionals who want to contribute to Veteran healthcare services. Candidates with strong technical expertise, customer service skills, and a commitment to quality patient care are encouraged to apply for this rewarding federal opportunity.