Optometrist
Camp Lejeune, NC · On-site
$89K/yr
This is a Flyer Announcement for an Optometrist GS-0662-12 position with Atlantic Naval Medical ... Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to ...
Optometrist
Camp Lejeune, NC · On-site
$89K/yr
This is a Flyer Announcement for an Optometrist GS-0662-12 position with Atlantic Naval Medical ... Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to ...
Optometrist
Syracuse, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Syracuse, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Auburn, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Quick apply
Optometrist
Auburn, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Beacon, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Quick apply
Optometrist
Beacon, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Beacon, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Beacon, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Cortland, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Cortland, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Orchard Park, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Orchard Park, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Orchard Park, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Quick apply
Optometrist
Orchard Park, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Jamesville, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Jamesville, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Thomasville, GA · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Thomasville, GA · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Sylva, NC · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Sylva, NC · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Newark, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Newark, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Albany, NY · On-site
$1.3K - $1.5K/day
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Albany, NY · On-site
$1.3K - $1.5K/day
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Owego, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Owego, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Position Summary We are seeking a compassionate and community-focused Optometrist to join our Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). The Optometrist will provide comprehensive primary eye care ...
Position Summary We are seeking a compassionate and community-focused Optometrist to join our Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). The Optometrist will provide comprehensive primary eye care ...
Optometrist
Albany, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Quick apply
Optometrist
Albany, NY · On-site
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Sandersville, GA · On-site
Position SummaryWe are seeking a compassionate and community-focused Optometrist to join our Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). The Optometrist will provide comprehensive primary eye care ...
Quick apply
Optometrist
Sandersville, GA · On-site
Position SummaryWe are seeking a compassionate and community-focused Optometrist to join our Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). The Optometrist will provide comprehensive primary eye care ...
Optometrist
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be ... The staff optometrist duties will be performed in the Eye Clinic at Ft. Smith, Arkansas Veterans ...
Optometrist
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be ... The staff optometrist duties will be performed in the Eye Clinic at Ft. Smith, Arkansas Veterans ...
Optometrist
Fort Smith, AR · On-site +1
$125K - $190K/yr
Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be ... The staff optometrist duties will be performed in the Eye Clinic at Ft. Smith, Arkansas Veterans ...
Optometrist
Fort Smith, AR · On-site +1
$125K - $190K/yr
Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be ... The staff optometrist duties will be performed in the Eye Clinic at Ft. Smith, Arkansas Veterans ...
Optometrist
Williamsville, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Optometrist
Williamsville, NY · On-site
$40 - $45/hr
Follow VA policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal healthcare standards. Optometrist Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution. * Current state optometry license ...
Federal Optometrist information
See salary details
$65K - $75.9K
12% of jobs
$75.9K - $86.8K
5% of jobs
$86.8K - $97.7K
5% of jobs
$100.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$97.7K - $108.6K
12% of jobs
$108.6K - $119.5K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $120.5K / yr.
$119.5K - $130.5K
13% of jobs
$140.9K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$130.5K - $141.4K
14% of jobs
$141.4K - $152.3K
13% of jobs
$152.3K - $163.2K
6% of jobs
$163.2K - $174.1K
3% of jobs
$174.1K - $185K
2% of jobs
$65K
$124.2K
$185K
How much do federal optometrist jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal 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.
What are some common challenges faced by federal optometrists in their daily work environment?
Federal Optometrists often work within structured healthcare systems such as the Department of Veterans Affairs or military hospitals, where they may encounter challenges like navigating complex administrative protocols and managing a high patient volume. They must balance delivering thorough patient care with meeting documentation and compliance requirements unique to federal settings. Additionally, Federal Optometrists frequently collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, requiring strong communication skills to coordinate care for patients with diverse and sometimes complex medical histories.
What is a federal optometrist?
Federal Optometrists are licensed eye care professionals who work for federal government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, the military, or public health services. They provide comprehensive eye exams, diagnose and treat vision problems, prescribe corrective lenses, and manage eye diseases for eligible patients, including veterans, service members, and sometimes underserved populations. Their role may also include conducting vision screenings, participating in research, and ensuring compliance with federal health regulations. Working as a federal optometrist offers unique opportunities to serve diverse patient populations and contribute to public health initiatives.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal optometrist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Federal Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, a current state optometry license, and a thorough understanding of ocular health and vision care. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, diagnostic imaging tools, and federal healthcare protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams make someone stand out in this role. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality vision care, ensuring regulatory compliance, and improving patient outcomes within the federal healthcare system.
What is the difference between Federal Optometrist vs State Optometrist?
| Aspect | Federal Optometrist |
|---|
| Credentials | Doctor of Optometry (OD) license, federal agency-specific certifications |
|---|---|
| Work Environment | Federal government facilities, VA hospitals, military bases |
| Employer & Industry | U.S. federal agencies, Department of Veterans Affairs, military |
| Common Search & Comparison | Focus on federal employment, benefits, and regulations |
Federal Optometrists and State Optometrists both require an OD degree and licensure. However, Federal Optometrists work primarily within government agencies such as the VA or military, focusing on federal regulations and benefits. State Optometrists typically work in private clinics or state-run facilities, serving local populations. The key difference lies in their work environment and employer, with Federal Optometrists being employed by the government and State Optometrists by private or state entities.
More about Federal Optometrist jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Optometrist jobs? Cities with the most Federal Optometrist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Optometrist jobs? The most popular types of Federal Optometrist jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Optometrist jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Optometrist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Optometrist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Optometrist jobs are:
$89K/yr
Other
Re-posted 23 days ago
U.S. Department Of Defense rating
7.9
Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
28th of 49 rated military and defense
Job description
About the Position: This is a Flyer Announcement for an Optometrist GS-0662-12 position with Atlantic Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune.
This is a Flyer Announcement - Resume, Transcripts, Licenses and Certificates need to be emailed to LCDR Kantar @ michael.kantar.mil@health.mil.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirements for Optometrist (Clinical):
Degree: A Doctor of Optometry degree from an educational program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) at the time the degree was obtained.
Licensure: Applicants must have received a passing score on the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NEBO) examinations and possess a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or a territory of the United States.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Experience: One year of professional experience as an optometrist which includes examining patients, diagnosing visual disorders and/or diseases, and identifying treatment. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-11).
OR
Residency: One year completion of a residency program in an institution accredited for such training.
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted.Education:See Education Requirements AboveEmployment Type: OTHER
This is a Flyer Announcement - Resume, Transcripts, Licenses and Certificates need to be emailed to LCDR Kantar @ michael.kantar.mil@health.mil.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirements for Optometrist (Clinical):
Degree: A Doctor of Optometry degree from an educational program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) at the time the degree was obtained.
Licensure: Applicants must have received a passing score on the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NEBO) examinations and possess a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in a State, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or a territory of the United States.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Experience: One year of professional experience as an optometrist which includes examining patients, diagnosing visual disorders and/or diseases, and identifying treatment. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-11).
OR
Residency: One year completion of a residency program in an institution accredited for such training.
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted.Education:See Education Requirements AboveEmployment Type: OTHER
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About United States Department of Defense
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US
Year founded
1949