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Associate Optometrist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

$160K/yr

Eastern Shore Eye Care is a well-established private practice seeking an Associate Optometrist to join our growing team. You'll enjoy full-scope optometry, clinical autonomy, and a collaborative ...

$160K/yr

Eastern Shore Eye Care is a well-established private practice seeking an Associate Optometrist to join our growing team. You'll enjoy full-scope optometry, clinical autonomy, and a collaborative ...

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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 14, 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 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 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 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 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 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 72% Full Time, and 28% 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

Eastern Shore Eye Care

On-site

$160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Eastern Shore Eye Care
Fairhope, Alabama | Full-Time

Competitive Base Salary $160,000 + Production Bonus

Relocation Assistance Provided + Paid Licensure + CE Stipend

Build Your Career on Alabama's Beautiful Gulf Coast

Looking for a practice where you can focus on exceptional patient care while enjoying an outstanding quality of life?

Eastern Shore Eye Care is a well-established private practice seeking an Associate Optometrist to join our growing team. You'll enjoy full-scope optometry, clinical autonomy, and a collaborative environment that allows you to build lasting patient relationships.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity:

  • Monday–Friday | 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (No Weekends)

  • Competitive $160,000 base salary + production bonus

  • Relocation assistance provided

  • Full-scope optometry with comprehensive exams and ocular disease management

  • Supportive, experienced team

  • Long-term growth in a respected private practice

Comprehensive Benefits:

  • Medical & Dental Insurance

  • 401(k) with Company Match

  • Paid Time Off

  • 9 Paid Holidays

  • $1,500 Annual Continuing Education Stipend

  • DEA Registration Paid

  • Alabama Optometry License Paid

  • Professional development support

Why You'll Love Fairhope, Alabama:

Known as one of the Gulf Coast's most desirable communities, Fairhope offers the perfect blend of career opportunity and coastal living.

Enjoy:

  • Stunning Mobile Bay sunsets

  • Charming, walkable downtown

  • Excellent schools

  • Outdoor recreation and parks

  • Fantastic local restaurants and boutiques

  • Minutes from Alabama's white-sand beaches

It's the perfect place to build both a rewarding career and an exceptional life.

We're Looking For:

A compassionate, motivated Optometrist who is:

  • Licensed (or eligible) in Alabama

  • Passionate about delivering exceptional patient care

  • Interested in practicing full-scope optometry

  • Looking to build a long-term career in private practice

Join Eastern Shore Eye Care and discover why so many doctors choose to build their future in beautiful Fairhope, Alabama. Apply today!

EEOC Statement: We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.