Physician Assistant - Ophthalmology
Join the UPMC Vision Institute – Department of Ophthalmology! We are seeking a dedicated Physician Assistant to deliver exceptional, patient-centered eye care as an integral part of our leading ophthalmology team.
- Location: UPMC Mercy Pavilion and UPMC Presbyterian. Some possible travel to additional sites may be required.
- Schedule: Full-Time. Four 10-hour shifts per week (Monday to Thursday or Tuesday to Friday) after orientation. Mainly daylight but some evening shifts and one weekend (daylight) per month.
- Details: Both impatient rounding and outpatient clinics. Flex position with a structured and consistent schedule to provide additional dedicated and comprehensive physician assistant coverage.
Why Choose UPMC Vision Institute?
- Innovation in Practice: We are one of the few ophthalmic practices nationwide that employe APPs as an integral part of our team. To provide the best patient care possible and to give you the tools and support needed, you will participate in a 6-month comprehensive clinical training in ophthalmology. This training includes both hands on and didactive teaching with rotations in ophthalmology sub-specialties and mentorship from our physicians.
- Expanding and Unique Services: The UPMC Vision Institute is Pittsburgh's first facility dedicated to specialist care for eye injuries that require immediate attention. It offers comprehensive ophthalmology services, including specialized care for the cornea, retina, optic nerve, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmological, and orbital disorders. We are a growing team of 11 APPs providing inpatient and outpatient ophthalmology care. Join this exciting and growing service line!
- Professional Development: At UPMC Vision Institute, we support our Advanced Practice Providers with the APP Career Ladder, CME, specialty training, and pathways for growth. We're also launching a clinical rotation precepting program to help shape the next generation of APPs in ophthalmology.
Advanced Practice Provider:
The Staff or Senior Advanced Practice Provider (Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner) is a collaborative member of the care team who provides high-quality patient care through independent clinical judgment and physician collaboration. The APP manages patient care across the continuum, builds strong interdisciplinary relationships, and demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and emerging leadership within the healthcare team.
The successful candidate will be placed according to years and months of experience for employment purposes.
Responsibilities:
- Provide high-quality patient care by applying sound clinical judgment, effective communication, and evidence-based practice. Develop and implement individualized plans of care that support patient safety, quality outcomes, and satisfaction.
- Collaborate with patients, families, and interdisciplinary care teams to deliver coordinated care and patient education. Actively seek feedback, guidance, and learning opportunities to continuously strengthen clinical skills and professional practice.
- Contribute to a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment by demonstrating professionalism, ethical awareness, accountability, and teamwork. Participate in quality improvement efforts, support colleagues, and engage in initiatives that enhance patient care and the clinical practice environment.
- Demonstrated ability to provide age-appropriate patient care
- Knowledge of growth and development across the life span
- Ability to assess patient data and deliver care per departmental policies
- Strong interpersonal, critical thinking, and clinical judgment skills with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Physical stamina and dexterity required for direct patient care.
Licensure, Education, Certifications, and Clearances
- Physician Assistant (PA)
- Graduation from an ARC‑PA–accredited Physician Assistant program required
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree preferred
- Current Pennsylvania PA license and NCCPA certification required
- Current CPR certification
- Successful completion of required Pennsylvania clearances:
- Act 33
- Act 34
- Act 73
- Physician Assistant, Senior
Minimum of 3 years of APP experience or completion of a post‑graduate residency
- Maintain a Solid/Strong/Good performance rating or higher on annual evaluations
Compendium application with the necessary points and documentation to sustain their rank within 12 months of hire.
ACLS, ITLS, NALS, PALS, or approved advanced certification within 30 days of hire
This position is dependent upon successful attainment and maintenance of hospital privileges, if applicable to the Business Unit practice.
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran