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Assistant Professor Optometry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Professor Optometry information

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$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do assistant professor optometry jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor optometry in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant professor in optometry?

Assistant Professors in Optometry are early-career faculty members at colleges or universities who teach optometry courses, conduct research, and may provide clinical supervision to students. They typically hold a doctoral degree in optometry (OD) or a related field and are involved in both classroom instruction and research activities. Their responsibilities can also include advising students, developing curriculum, and contributing to professional and academic communities. Assistant Professors usually work toward tenure as they gain experience and demonstrate excellence in their roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant professor in optometry?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Optometry, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, clinical expertise, research experience, and often a record of scholarly publications. Familiarity with diagnostic imaging systems, electronic health records, and educational technology platforms is typical, and board certification may be required. Strong communication, mentoring abilities, and a passion for teaching distinguish outstanding candidates in this academic role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively educating future optometrists, advancing research, and contributing to clinical excellence in academic settings.

What opportunities for research and collaboration are typically available for assistant professors in optometry departments?

Assistant Professors in Optometry often have access to a range of research opportunities, including interdisciplinary projects with other health sciences departments, clinical research with patient populations, and collaborations with external partners such as hospitals or vision research organizations. Many institutions encourage junior faculty to publish research, apply for grants, and participate in conferences. Collaborative work is highly valued and can help build a strong professional network, supporting both career advancement and the development of innovative teaching methods.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Optometry vs Clinical Optometrist?

AspectAssistant Professor OptometryClinical Optometrist
Required CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD), academic credentials, teaching experienceDoctor of Optometry (OD), state licensure
Work EnvironmentUniversities, academic settings, research and teachingPrivate clinics, hospitals, retail optical stores
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research centersHealthcare providers, private practices
Common Search & Comparison IntentAcademic career, teaching roles, research opportunitiesPatient care, clinical practice, diagnostics

While both roles require an OD degree and licensure, Assistant Professor Optometry focuses on teaching and research within academic institutions, whereas Clinical Optometrists primarily provide patient care in clinical settings. The choice depends on whether you aim to pursue an academic or clinical career in optometry.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Professor Optometry jobs?

For Assistant Professor Optometry jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Optometry job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Clinical Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, Optometry (Chief, Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic)

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Clinical Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, Optometry (Chief, Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic)

The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at iups@iu.edu

Title Clinical Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, Optometry (Chief, Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic)

Appointment Status

Department

Location

Location Bloomington

Position Summary

Clinical Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, Optometry (Chief, Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic)

Indiana University School of Optometry, a leader in clinical education, patient care, and research, is seeking skilled clinicians to join our clinical faculty in Bloomington, Indiana. These are clinical-rank, non-tenure-track faculty positions with a preferred start date of May 1, 2027.

Applicants must hold an O.D. or equivalent degree, be eligible for optometric licensure in Indiana, and have completed an accredited residency program or possess equivalent relevant clinical experience. Candidates for the Chief position must also meet the additional specialty, teaching, and leadership qualifications described below.

Chief, Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic — One Opening

The School is seeking a faculty member to serve as Chief of the Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic. The Chief will provide clinical and administrative leadership for the clinic while delivering patient-centered care and actively engaging in clinical and didactic education.

The Chief will help guide the clinical, educational, and strategic direction of the clinic; coordinate clinical and educational activities; support faculty, staff, and students; promote excellence and consistency in patient care; and contribute to the clinic’s continued development.

In addition to the qualifications required of all applicants, candidates for the Chief position must have:

  • Demonstrated advanced clinical expertise in pediatric optometry, binocular vision, or both, with sufficient breadth of experience to provide leadership across the scope of the clinic;
  • Experience teaching, supervising, or mentoring students, residents, or other health professionals in a clinical setting;
  • Demonstrated leadership experience involving a clinic, clinical service, academic program, residency program, health‑care team, professional organization, or comparable initiative; and
  • Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively, coordinate clinical and educational activities, and contribute to clinical program development.
Preferred qualifications include prior experience directing or coordinating a clinic, clinical service, residency program, academic program, or interdisciplinary clinical team, as well as a record of professional service or scholarship related to pediatric optometry, binocular vision, or optometric education.

Clinical and Educational Responsibilities

The ideal candidates will be enthusiastic members of our faculty who are committed to patient-centered care, clinical education, and the advancement of the profession. Clinical faculty members actively engage in clinical and didactic teaching and help prepare our students to provide ethical, evidence-based, patient-focused care. Faculty may also have opportunities to participate in collaborative clinical research, community health initiatives, and professional activities at the state and national levels.

Primary care clinicians at Indiana University School of Optometry diagnose and manage a broad range of refractive and ocular conditions, including ocular disease, dry eye, and binocular vision disorders. Our Binocular Vision/Pediatrics Clinic provides comprehensive care for pediatric patients and adults with binocular vision disorders. Clinical services include the evaluation and management of myopia, amblyopia, strabismic and non‑strabismic binocular vision disorders, pediatric eye disease, post‑TBI visual conditions, visual information‑processing disorders, and vision therapy.

Our specialty clinics provide opportunities for faculty to deliver advanced care while teaching students through direct clinical supervision and instruction. Candidates are expected to contribute to the School’s comprehensive clinical education mission, with specific clinical responsibilities determined by their areas of expertise and the needs of the School.

Indiana University and Bloomington

The School of Optometry’s didactic program and primary clinical education mission are based in Bloomington. Indiana University School of Optometry maintains a variety of externship and residency affiliations and has an active commitment to community health and education. Indiana University is a major research university founded in 1820, with a broad range of academic, clinical, and research opportunities.

Bloomington is located in a beautifully wooded and hilly area of southern Indiana, where cultural and recreational opportunities abound. The community offers short commuting times and extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation, arts and culture, dining, and entertainment. Additional information about Bloomington can be found at www.visitbloomington.com .

Questions regarding the positions or application process may be directed to Dr. Todd Peabody at tpeabody@iu.edu .

Applications received by October 31, 2026, will receive full consideration. The searches will remain open until the positions are filled. Salary and rank will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Basic Qualifications

Applicants must hold an O.D. or equivalent degree, be eligible for optometric licensure in Indiana, and have completed an accredited residency program or possess equivalent relevant clinical experience.

  • Demonstrated advanced clinical expertise in pediatric optometry, binocular vision, or both, with sufficient breadth of experience to provide leadership across the scope of the clinic;
  • Experience teaching, supervising, or mentoring students, residents, or other health professionals in a clinical setting;
  • Demonstrated leadership experience involving a clinic, clinical service, academic program, residency program, health‑care team, professional organization, or comparable initiative; and
  • Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively, coordinate clinical and educational activities, and contribute to clinical program development.
Department Contact for Questions

Questions regarding the position or application process may be directed to Dr. Todd Peabody at tpeabody@iu.edu .

Additional Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include prior experience directing or coordinating a clinic, clinical service, residency program, academic program, or interdisciplinary clinical team, as well as a record of professional service or scholarship related to pediatric optometry, binocular vision, or optometric education.

Salary and Rank

Special Instructions

For Best Consideration Date

For Best Consideration Date 10/31/2026

Expected Start Date

Expected Start Date 05/01/2027

Posting Number

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  • * Have you previously been employed with IU?
    • Yes
    • No
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