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Clinical Research Optometry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... of its clinical research initiatives. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your ... Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. * Valid state optometry ...

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The department has multiple providers conducting clinical research strongly supported by a trials ... Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from a school or College of Optometry accredited by the ...

... of our clinical research initiatives. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your ... Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. * Valid state optometry ...

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We are a highly respected, patient-centered optometry and ophthalmology group recognized for ... Career Growth & LeadershipOptions to participate in clinical research, leadership councils, and ...

... of its clinical research initiatives. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your ... Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. * Valid state optometry ...

Apply Early

... of our clinical research initiatives. If you're looking to make a meaningful impact in your ... Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. * Valid state optometry ...

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Clinical Research Optometry information

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How much do clinical research optometry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research optometry in the United States is $24.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by optometrists working in clinical research settings?

Optometrists in clinical research often encounter challenges such as balancing patient care with strict study protocols, ensuring data accuracy, and staying current with regulatory requirements. Managing large volumes of documentation and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including ophthalmologists, coordinators, and statisticians—can also be demanding. However, these challenges are offset by the opportunity to contribute to advancements in eye care and build strong collaborative networks within the research community.

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

To thrive as a Clinical Research Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, licensure, and a strong background in vision science and clinical research methodologies. Familiarity with electronic data capture systems, clinical trial protocols, and regulatory frameworks such as GCP (Good Clinical Practice) is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and ensuring accurate data collection. These competencies are vital for ensuring the validity of research outcomes, patient safety, and compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Optometry vs Optometric Technician?

AspectClinical Research OptometryOptometric Technician
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) license, clinical research trainingHigh school diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentResearch clinics, hospitals, pharmaceutical companiesOptometry offices, clinics, eye care centers
Job FocusConducting clinical trials, data collection, patient assessmentsAssisting optometrists, preliminary eye exams, patient prep

Clinical Research Optometry involves conducting research and clinical trials related to eye health, requiring an OD license and research experience. In contrast, an Optometric Technician supports eye care providers through patient assistance and preliminary exams, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in eye care but differ significantly in responsibilities and work settings.

What is clinical research optometry?

Clinical research optometry is a specialized field within optometry that focuses on conducting scientific studies and clinical trials to evaluate new treatments, devices, medications, and procedures related to eye care and vision health. Professionals in this area work alongside research teams, healthcare providers, and patients to gather data that advances understanding and improves outcomes in eye health. Their work is essential for developing evidence-based practices and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of new optometric therapies.
More about Clinical Research Optometry jobs
What cities are hiring for Clinical Research Optometry jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Research Optometry job openings:
What states have the most Clinical Research Optometry jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Research Optometry jobs include:
Infographic showing various Clinical Research Optometry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,108 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
Optometrist

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description


Under the supervision of the Optometry Manager and the Chief of Ophthalmology of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital (ZSFG), and guided by policies and procedures of the Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital Medical Center, the Optometrist provides Optometric care to patients at ZSFG and affiliated sites. The UCSF Department of Ophthalmology at ZSFG seeks a patient-centered Optometrist to provide comprehensive eye care at the Zuckerberg San Francisco General (ZSFG) Ophthalmology Clinic, a high-volume academic safety-net setting. The Optometrist will deliver evidence-based primary and specialty optometric services to a diverse, underserved population, working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team of ophthalmologists, residents, fellows, and allied health professionals.
Department Description:
The UCSF Department of Ophthalmology at ZSFG seeks a patient-centered Optometrist to provide comprehensive eye care at the Zuckerberg San Francisco General (ZSFG) Ophthalmology Clinic, a high-volume academic safety-net setting. The Optometrist will deliver evidence-based primary and specialty optometric services to a diverse, underserved population, working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team of ophthalmologists, residents, fellows, and allied health professionals. Responsibilities include comprehensive eye exams, diagnosis and management of ocular disease, pre- and post-operative co-management, and urgent eye care, with a strong emphasis on health equity, quality improvement, and patient education. The role supports UCSF's missions of clinical excellence, education, and research, including teaching of trainees and participation in academic initiatives as appropriate.
The UCSF Ophthalmology Clinic at Zuckerberg San Francisco General (ZSFG) is a core component of the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology's clinical, teaching, and public service mission. Located within San Francisco's public health system, the clinic serves as a major tertiary referral center for complex and urgent eye care while providing comprehensive ophthalmic services to a diverse, medically and socially underserved patient population. The clinic delivers a full spectrum of ophthalmologic and optometric care, including comprehensive eye examinations, management of acute and chronic ocular disease, specialty clinics, and pre- and post-operative surgical care. As a high-volume academic safety-net practice, the department emphasizes evidence-based medicine, interdisciplinary collaboration, and culturally responsive care to address health disparities and improve visual outcomes.
The UCSF Ophthalmology Clinic at ZSFG is also a primary training site for UCSF ophthalmology residents, fellows, and medical students. Faculty and staff are actively engaged in teaching, mentorship, quality improvement, and clinical research that advance ophthalmic knowledge and public health. Through its integrated clinical and academic environment, the department plays a vital role in UCSF's commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation in eye care for the San Francisco community and beyond.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Doctor of optometry degree
  • Demonstrated ability to perform moderately complex optometric examinations including: visual acuity, pupillary examination, confrontation visual fields, tonometry, evaluation of muscle balance, stereopsis, phorias, vergences, retinoscopy, slit lamp examination, lensometry, indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography and other relevant examination components.
  • Detailed knowledge and understanding of common workflows in an eye care clinical practice
  • Demonstrated ability to perform subjective refraction for ophthalmology patients.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform well-eye exams for pediatric patients.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform basic and complex contact lens fittings, including medically necessary contact lenses.
  • Valid California Driver's License and clean driving record.
  • Ability to establish a good rapport and professional working relationship with co-workers and all departmental personnel.
  • Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills, documents and reports clearly and concisely. Conveys instructions, directions, and information appropriately.
  • Familiarity with policies and procedures for infection control, safety, administrative, and clinical practice. Complies with activities mandated by HIPAA. Takes an active part in preparation for regulatory reviews.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated ability to manage medically complex patients
  • Fluency in spoken Spanish or Chinese
  • At least two years of experience as a practicing optometrist in a hospital based, public health or safety net settings

Licensure/Certification:
Required:
  • License to practice Optometry in California with TPA certification
  • Glaucoma certification from California Board of Optometry
  • Valid California Driver's License and clean driving record.

Preferred:
  • American Heart Association CPR/BLS
  • DEA license