Adjunct Ophthalmology Instructor

At Sandhills Community College, we are committed to the health and well-being of our employees, their families, and children across North Carolina. Recently, we became a Family Forward NC Certified Employer. Family Forward NC Employer Certifications, issued by the North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation’s (NCECF) Family Forward NC initiative, designate employers that offer policies and practices that support the health and well-being of working families and children.

Summary

The Part-Time Ophthalmology Instructor is responsible for delivering didactic, laboratory, and clinical instruction to students enrolled in an Allied Ophthalmic Personnel (AOP) training program. The instructor ensures curriculum alignment with industry and certification standards and prepares students for certification examinations such as Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), and Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT).

Essential Functions

Instruction & Curriculum Delivery

• Provide classroom, lab, and/or clinical instruction in ophthalmic procedures and patient care 
• Teach core competencies including visual assessment, tonometry, ocular anatomy, and pharmacology 
• Develop lesson plans, instructional materials, and student assessments 
• Evaluate student performance and provide timely, constructive feedback 

• Demonstrate and supervise clinical procedures such as visual acuity testing, tonometry, pupil evaluation, and diagnostic testing (e.g., OCT, visual fields, keratometry) 
• Ensure students perform procedures safely and accurately in accordance with clinical standards 
• Reinforce proper documentation and professional patient interaction 

• Ensure curriculum alignment with applicable accreditation and certification standards (e.g., JCAHPO) 
• Maintain accurate documentation for program review and compliance 
• Participate in program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts 

• Advise students regarding certification pathways (COA, COT, COMT) 
• Provide academic support and professional mentorship 
• Monitor student progress and clinical competency development 

• Maintain attendance, grades, and competency records 
• Collaborate with program leadership and clinical partners 
• Participate in faculty meetings and curriculum development as needed

• INTEGRITY– Demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical behavior, honesty, and transparency in all interactions within the college. Upholds the college's values, policies, and standards, and serves as a role model for others by consistently doing what is right, even when faced with challenges and pressures
• EXCELLENCE– Strives to achieve the highest standards of quality in all aspects of work, demonstrating dedication to continuous improvement, delivering quality results, contributing to the overall success of the college and its mission.
• RESPECT– Demonstrates an appreciation for the dignity of individuals within the college. Treats students, colleagues, and community members with kindness, fairness, and consideration to foster a welcoming culture. Respects differing viewpoints and contributes to a positive and collaborative work environment.
• OPPORTUNITY– Demonstrates the ability to recognize, create, and seize opportunities that contribute to personal growth, student success, and the advancement of the college's mission. Encourages and supports others in identifying and leveraging opportunities for improvement, innovation, and development. Actively seeks ways to maximize potential and foster a culture of continuous learning and progress.
• HELPFULNESS– Demonstrates a commitment to service by being approachable, responsive, and proactive in providing support to students, colleagues, the community, and environment (both physical and cultural) of the college. Fosters a positive and collaborative culture where individuals feel valued and empowered to seek assistance and resources. It helps create a culture of belonging and engagement in which students can learn and achieve success.

Qualifications

Required education and experience:

• Current JCAHPO certification: Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or higher 
• Minimum of 3–5 years of clinical experience in ophthalmology 
• Demonstrated knowledge of ophthalmic diagnostic equipment and procedures

• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) or Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) 
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in ophthalmic technology, health sciences, or a related field 
• Prior teaching, training, or precepting experience 
• Knowledge of adult learning principles

Sandhills Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or parental status, religion, age, ancestry, mental or physical disability, military status or veteran status.