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Entry Level Orthoptist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orthoptist

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Required Work Experience: Entry Level - Experience not Required. Recommended Work Experience: Required Certifications: Certified Orthoptist (CO) - American Orthoptic Council (AOC) Recommended ...

Entry Level Orthoptist information

See salary details

$12

$16

$22

How much do entry level orthoptist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level orthoptist in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level orthoptists during their first year on the job?

Entry-level orthoptists often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, building confidence in performing eye movement assessments, and learning to communicate effectively with both pediatric and adult patients. It can also take time to become proficient with specialized diagnostic equipment and to coordinate care with ophthalmologists and other healthcare professionals. Ongoing training, mentorship, and asking questions are key to overcoming these initial hurdles and developing strong clinical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Orthoptist vs Orthoptist?

AspectEntry Level OrthoptistOrthoptist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in orthoptics or related field, certification requiredTypically requires certification and licensure, with more advanced credentials
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, ophthalmology practices, outpatient settingsSimilar settings, often with more complex cases and responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in eye assessments, perform basic tests, support patient carePerform comprehensive eye exams, diagnose conditions, develop treatment plans

Entry Level Orthoptists are trained to support eye care teams with basic assessments and tests, while Orthoptists typically handle more complex diagnostics and treatment planning. Both roles work in similar healthcare environments, but Orthoptists usually have more experience and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Orthoptist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Orthoptist, you need a solid background in vision science, anatomy, and orthoptic assessment techniques, typically achieved through a relevant degree or certification in orthoptics. Familiarity with diagnostic equipment such as synoptophores, visual field analyzers, and electronic medical records systems is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly help orthoptists excel in patient care and collaboration with ophthalmologists. These competencies are essential for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and maintaining patient trust in clinical settings.

What does an entry level orthoptist do?

An entry level orthoptist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and managing disorders related to eye movement and binocular vision, such as strabismus (misaligned eyes) and amblyopia (lazy eye). They work closely with ophthalmologists to conduct vision assessments, perform diagnostic tests, and help develop treatment plans, which may include exercises, patching, or prisms. Entry level orthoptists often work in hospitals, vision clinics, or private practices and typically interact with patients of all ages, especially children.
What are the most commonly searched types of Orthoptist jobs? The most popular types of Orthoptist jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Orthoptist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Orthoptist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Orthoptist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 23% Hybrid, and 77% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,227 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Orthoptist

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Arkansas Children's Hospital rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 993 rated hospitals


Job description

ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S IS A TOBACCO FREE WORKPLACE. FLU VACCINES ARE REQUIRED. ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL RECEIVE CONSIDERATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, PROTECTED VETERAN STATUS OR ANY OTHER CHARACTERISTIC PROTECTED BY FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAWS.

This position has been designated as safety sensitive and cannot be filled by a candidate who is a current user of medical marijuana.

CURRENT EMPLOYEES: Please apply via the internal career site by logging into your Workday Account (https://www.myworkday.com/archildrens/)and search the "Find Jobs" report.

Work Shift:

Day Shift

Time Type:

Full time

Department:

CC015070 Eye ClinicSummary:$15K Sign-on Bonus - Eye Clinic - Full-time (40 hrs/wk) - Bachelor's & Certified Orthoptist (CO) certification required at time of hireAdditional Information:

The Orthoptist evaluates and manages childhood and adult eye movement abnormalities under the direction of an ophthalmologist. Participates in the education of orthoptic students, medical students, ophthalmology residents and also in clinical and basic research. Primarily responsible to aid staff, residents, and outside Ophthalmologist in the examination and treatment of patients with disorders of ocular motility and binocular vision. The Orthoptist and the Ophthalmologist function as a team to analyze examination results and to plan and execute therapy.

Required Education:Bachelor's degree from four-year college or universityRecommended Education:Required Work Experience:Entry Level - Experience not Required.Recommended Work Experience:Required Certifications:Certified Orthoptist (CO) - American Orthoptic Council (AOC)Recommended Certifications:Description

1. Assesses visual acuity in patients with amblyopia, patients who are non-verbal, are uncooperative or have developmental delay.
2. Performs quantitative measurements, ocular sensory testing and diagnostic strabismus evaluations.
3. Reviews patient's medical record prior to clinic visit to anticipate patient's needs.
4. Completes orthoptic exam in a timely manner and provides documentation to pediatric ophthalmologist about results and notes changes from previous visit.
5. Evaluates, diagnoses and treats disorders of the visual systems with an emphasis on binocular vision or abnormal eye movements.
6. Examines patients with problems related to ocular motility, binocular vision, amblyopia or strabismus.
7. Assists ophthalmologist in planning and modifying plan of care based on assessment data.
8. Initiates orthoptic therapy in selected cases to include eye motility exercises.
9.Implement plan that includes prismatic and other orthoptic methods for the treatment of diplopia.
10. Educates patients and families through verbal or written explanation and documents response in the medical record.
11. Advances orthoptic treatment as indicated by patient progress and in consultation with the ophthalmologist.
12. Provides training related to clinical methods or orthoptics to students, resident physicians or other health professionals.
13. Performs other duties as assigned.


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