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Associate Optometrist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Optometrist information

See Alabama salary details

$58.9K

$112.6K

$167.7K

How much do associate optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate optometrist in Alabama is $112,586.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $132,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate optometrist?

Associate Optometrists are licensed eye care professionals who work under the supervision or partnership of a senior optometrist or within an optometry practice. They perform comprehensive eye exams, diagnose and treat visual problems, and prescribe corrective lenses or treatments. Associate Optometrists may also assist with patient education and manage certain eye diseases. This role is typically suited for optometrists early in their careers, offering opportunities for skill development and experience in a clinical setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate optometrist?

To thrive as an Associate Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state licensure, and a strong background in vision assessment and ocular disease management. Familiarity with diagnostic tools such as autorefractors, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electronic health records is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and patient education abilities help you stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate diagnoses, effective patient care, and a positive clinical experience, which are critical for success in optometry practice.

What are some typical challenges an associate optometrist may encounter when transitioning from school to clinical practice?

Associate Optometrists often find the transition from academic settings to clinical practice challenging due to the increased patient volume, time management demands, and the need to quickly adapt to different practice management systems. Additionally, building rapport with patients and collaborating effectively with support staff and other healthcare professionals can require practice and strong communication skills. With experience, most new optometrists become more confident in their diagnostic abilities and develop efficient workflows that allow them to provide high-quality patient care.

What is the difference between Associate Optometrist vs Optometry Technician?

AspectAssociate OptometristOptometry Technician
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) licenseCertified or registered technician, no OD license
Work EnvironmentExam rooms, patient consultations, diagnosis, treatment planningPre-testing, assisting during exams, patient data collection
ResponsibilitiesDiagnose eye conditions, prescribe glasses/contact lenses, manage patient carePerform preliminary tests, assist with exams, prepare patients

Associate Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry degree and are licensed to diagnose and treat eye conditions, while Optometry Technicians support the clinical team by conducting tests and assisting during exams. Both roles are essential in eye care clinics, but their responsibilities and credentials differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optometrist jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Optometrist jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Optometrist jobs in Alabama?

For Associate Optometrist jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Optometrist jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Optometrist jobs in Alabama are:

Infographic showing various Associate Optometrist job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,586 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Associate Optometrist - Dothan, AL - Target Optical

EssilorLuxottica SA

Kinsey, AL • On-site

Other

Medical, Vision

Posted 16 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Associate Optometrist - Dothan, AL - Target Optical

Brand: Target Optical Location: Dothan, AL, US, 36302 Store #: 00Q708 Target Optical Position: Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry.

General Function

The Associate Optometrist (OD) ensures all patients receive the highest quality eye and vision care as well as their general health and well-being. As a primary health care provider, you will use your extensive, ongoing training to examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the visual system, eye and associated structures. The OD is a key leader within the organization and practice environment. They will help deliver the brand promise, patient experience and key results through strong collaboration and teamwork within the practice. These behaviors will also support the overall positive results and growth of the practice.

Major Duties And Responsibilities

Provide high quality optometric care and services to your patients Establish a positive Doctor/Patient relationship Conduct all services in accordance with clinical protocols and accepted standards of care Ensure all patients receive accurate diagnosis and appropriate recommendations Utilize and effectively leverage all available technology to deliver unsurpassed patient and customer experiences Work with the store/practice team and Target Optical Field Leadership to build and secure a safe and motivating work environment that encourages commitment, innovation, success and continued growth for the brand Ensures the office quality systems are maintained Maximizes relationships through leadership, participation and involvement Provides clear, motivating and effective training and guidance to team members making use of Company provided programs Strives to exceed expectations on all Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and performance expectations Helps ensure the brand is known as the leading optical provider within the community

Basic Qualifications

Graduate of accredited School or College of Optometry Licensed to practice Optometry in the State of practice location DPA and TPA certified Knowledge of current Optometric technology and practices Strong communication skills – verbal & listening


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