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Entry Level Optometrist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Riverside

$18.90 - $24.60/hr

Overview The Ophthalmic Assistant is the non-certified pre-entry level position.This position works ... High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred) Experience * 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office ...

Riverside

$18.90 - $24.60/hr

Overview The Ophthalmic Assistant is the non-certified pre-entry level position. This position ... High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred) Experience * 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office ...

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$18.90 - $24.60/hr

Overview The Ophthalmic Assistant is the non-certified pre-entry level position.This position works ... High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred) Experience * 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office ...

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$18.90 - $24.60/hr

Overview The Ophthalmic Assistant is the non-certified pre-entry level position. This position ... High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred) Experience * 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office ...

All JobsOptometrist JobsEntry Level Optometrist JobsEntry Level Optometrist Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Optometrist information

See Virginia salary details

$64.4K

$123.1K

$183.4K

How much do entry level optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level optometrist in Virginia is $123,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $144,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level optometrist?

An Entry Level Optometrist is a newly licensed eye care professional who performs comprehensive eye exams, diagnoses vision problems, and prescribes corrective lenses or treatments. They work under the guidance of experienced optometrists or within a healthcare team to gain clinical experience. Responsibilities may include assessing eye health, managing common conditions like dry eye or myopia, and educating patients on vision care. This role serves as a foundation for building expertise in optometry while developing patient care skills.

What are common daily responsibilities for an entry level optometrist?

As an entry level optometrist, your daily duties typically include conducting comprehensive eye exams, diagnosing vision issues, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting ocular diseases. You will also educate patients about eye health, collaborate with optometric technicians and assistants, and maintain accurate patient records. In many settings, you'll work closely with retail staff or other healthcare professionals to provide a seamless customer experience. These responsibilities offer valuable hands-on experience and are essential for building a strong foundation for career advancement within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level optometrist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, a state license, and a solid understanding of vision care, refraction techniques, and ocular disease diagnosis. Familiarity with optometric instruments (like phoropters and retinal cameras), electronic health record (EHR) systems, and vision assessment tools is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and patient education abilities help you build trust and deliver effective care. These competencies ensure safe, accurate patient outcomes and foster a positive reputation in a clinical or retail optometry setting.

How to start a career in entry level optometry?

To start a career as an entry-level optometrist, obtain a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited program and pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams. After licensure, gain clinical experience through internships or associate positions, develop strong patient communication skills, and stay updated on industry standards and technologies.

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

The most popular types of Optometrist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Optometrist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Optometrist job openings:

Entry Level Optometrist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optometrist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,148 per year, or $59.2 per hour.

Ophthalmic Assistant Non Certified RMG

Riverside

On-site

$18.90 - $24.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Hampton, Virginia

Hiring Range

$18.90 - $24.60/Hourly Actual pay is determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, education, credentials, skills, internal equity, and business needs.
Overview
The Ophthalmic Assistant is the non-certified pre-entry level position.This position works under the supervision of the Office Manager, Physicians, Clinical Coordinator/Supervisor and/or COT or COMT. The Ophthalmic Assistant greets the patient, reviews and documents the complaint. Performs and records pertinent clinical measures to include visual acuities, slit lamp exam and any other necessary diagnostic test. The OA facilitates patient education through brochures and videos. The OA prepares prescription refills for the physician to review and sign. The OA is also responsible for preparing referral and dictation letters, returning calls to patients and pharmacies with medical questions under the supervision of a the Clinical Supervisor, Certified Ophthalmic Assistant, Certified Ophthalmic Technician or Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist.
What you will do
  • Performs and records pertinent clinical measures to include Visual Acuities, Refractometry, Application Tonometry, Keratometry, Slit Lamp Exams, Visual Fields, OCT and other ancillary testing under the supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, Physicians and/or senior level technician. Identifies the patients complaint or reason for the visit and assess the patients immediate needs to ensure the patient is seen in a timely manner. Records pertinent medical, allergic, ophthalmic and family histories to include current prescriptions, glasses and contact lenses.
  • Communicates and documents essential information to physicians and team members. Prepares referral follow up letters and dictations for referring physicians for the physicians review and signature.
  • Facilitates patient education through videos and brochures. Prepares prescription refills for the physician's review and signature. Reviews and answers patient's voicemails and returns calls to patients and pharmacies in a timely manner.
  • Demonstrates positive interpersonal relations in dealing with patients and their families or caregivers to project a favorable image of the office and facilitate quality patient care.
  • Effectively utilizes technology to increase efficiency including all equipment, Group Management, MedFlow, Electronic Health Record, Electronic Health Record, and Microsoft Office Programs.
  • Maintains clean and safe work area. Maintains a working knowledge of facility, OSHA, and HIPPA regulations.

Qualifications
Education
  • High School Diploma or GED, (Preferred)

Experience
  • 1 year Ophthalmology/Optometry Office (Preferred)

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.

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