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Chief Optometrist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dilkon Medical Center

Optometrist (42517)

Dilkon, AZ · On-site

Under general supervision of the Chief Optometrist, the Optometrist assesses patient needs, and plans and delivers comprehensive eye care and associated services to patients; provides patient ...

Big Sandy Health Care, Inc.

Optometrist

Inez, KY · On-site

When requested, advises Clinic Director, Medical Director, Chief Executive Officer, and/or Board of Directors on questions involving optometric medical matters. * In collaboration with Clinic ...

Big Sandy Healthcare Inc

Optometrist

Inez, KY · On-site

When requested, advises Clinic Director, Medical Director, Chief Executive Officer, and/or Board of Directors on questions involving optometric medical matters. * In collaboration with Clinic ...

Big Sandy Healthcare Inc

Optometrist

Inez, KY · On-site

When requested, advises Clinic Director, Medical Director, Chief Executive Officer, and/or Board of Directors on questions involving optometric medical matters. * In collaboration with Clinic ...

AvaMed Workforce

Optometrist (OPT)

Corcoran, CA · On-site

$110/hr

Temporary/Relief Optometrist will refer, upon approval of the Institution/Facility CEO/CME or ... designee, patient/youth for consultation, diagnosis, treatment(s), and/or surgery to CDCR/CCHCS ...

AvaMed Workforce

Optometrist (OPT)

Corcoran, CA

$110/hr

Temporary/Relief Optometrist will refer, upon approval of the Institution/Facility CEO/CME or ... designee, patient/youth for consultation, diagnosis, treatment(s), and/or surgery to CDCR/CCHCS ...

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Chief Optometrist information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do chief optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief optometrist in the United States is $124,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Chief Optometrist typically balance clinical duties with administrative responsibilities?

A Chief Optometrist often splits their time between providing direct patient care and managing the overall operations of the optometry department. This includes supervising junior optometrists, overseeing scheduling, ensuring compliance with health regulations, and contributing to strategic planning. Effective time management and delegation are crucial, as Chiefs must stay engaged with clinical advances while also addressing administrative challenges. Regular collaboration with other healthcare leaders and departments is essential to maintain high standards of care and support staff development.

What are Chief Optometrists?

Chief Optometrists are senior eye care professionals who lead and oversee the optometry department in clinics, hospitals, or large optical practices. They are responsible for managing clinical staff, ensuring high standards of patient care, and implementing policies related to eye health services. In addition to performing eye exams and diagnosing vision problems, Chief Optometrists often collaborate with other health professionals, supervise training, and contribute to strategic planning within their organization. Their leadership ensures that patients receive quality eye care and that the department operates efficiently.

What is the difference between Chief Optometrist vs Optometrist?

AspectChief OptometristOptometrist
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) license, additional leadership trainingDoctor of Optometry (OD) license
Work EnvironmentLeads clinics, manages staff, oversees operationsProvides eye exams, diagnoses, and treatments
Employer & IndustryOptometry clinics, healthcare organizationsOptometry clinics, private practices, healthcare settings
Search & Comparison IntentLeadership, management, senior rolesClinical practice, patient care

The main difference is that a Chief Optometrist holds leadership and management responsibilities, overseeing clinics and staff, while an Optometrist focuses on patient eye care and clinical duties. Both roles require an OD license, but the Chief Optometrist combines clinical expertise with administrative skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Optometrist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Optometrist, you need an OD (Doctor of Optometry) degree, state licensure, and extensive clinical experience in vision care and eye health management. Familiarity with advanced diagnostic equipment, EHR systems, and industry-standard vision testing tools is essential. Leadership, excellent communication, and strong organizational skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These competencies ensure effective patient care, seamless team management, and the successful operation of optometric services.
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Chief Optometrist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Optometrist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.
Staff Optometrist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Education Debt Reduction Program Approved

Staff Optometrist-Recruitment/Relocation Incentive-Education Debt Reduction Program Approved

US Department of Veterans Affairs

Big Spring, TX

Other

Posted yesterday

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 639 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 274 rated public sector bodies

Job description

Staff Optometrist

The Staff Optometrist provides comprehensive patient care, and participates in clinical activities relevant to the service. The role involves working collaboratively with the optometry team, including supporting the Chief Optometrist and other senior staff. Key responsibilities include delivering high-quality optometric care, assisting in the education of medical and optometry students, and contributing to performance improvement activities within the service. The Staff Optometrist focuses on providing care for ocular disease within the scope of Optometry. The majority of the Staff Optometrist's time is dedicated to direct patient care and contributing to service excellence. While most work occurs at the primary duty station, travel and work at other sites may occasionally be required to meet the needs of the West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS). Interest and willingness to participate in academic research and education are encouraged. The successful candidate must excel in teamwork, coordinating activities efficiently with ancillary staff, and effectively supporting the optometry team. Staff Optometrists should have significant experience in performing diagnostic and therapeutic optometric care. Experience in the treatment of medical glaucoma and retinal conditions is desirable, within the scope of their state license. The Staff Optometrist must have a comprehensive understanding of preventive medicine and primary care relevant to ocular health. VA offers a comprehensive total rewards package.

Clinical:

  • Perform and document comprehensive or targeted eye examinations.
  • Provide patient care following national guidelines.
  • Accurately document patient care activities in the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) per WTVAHCS requirements.
  • Order diagnostic studies pertinent to ocular evaluations.
  • Prescribe medications for ocular diseases in accordance with federal and state laws or refer patients to appropriate specialists if outside the scope of optometry practice.
  • Obtain consent for procedures when necessary and document appropriately.
  • Consult with other healthcare disciplines as necessary to complete patient evaluations and ensure integrated care.
  • Engage in health promotion and disease prevention activities, including patient education and shared decision-making.
  • Maintain updated Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Administrative Support:

  • Support the Chief Optometrist and assist in all aspects of administrative duties as needed.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of departmental policies and procedures.
  • Contribute to performance improvement initiatives within the Optometry Service.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 08:00am-04:30pm

Telework: Available Ad Hoc Only

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: May be authorized

EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants are ineligible to apply for EDRP incentive. Contact vhaedrpprogramsupport@va.gov, for questions/assistance. Learn more

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

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