1

Graduate Optometrist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optometrist

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? First Impressions Optometric Associates is a leading eye care company ...

Optometrist

Florence, KY

$120K - $150K/yr

Whether you are an experienced Optometrist or a new graduate seeking mentorship, this role provides an excellent platform to build a rewarding career in a collaborative setting. Key Responsibilities

Optometrist

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? KY Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Optometrist

Campbellsville, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? KY Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? KY Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Optometrist

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? Sowash Optometry Group is a family-owned optometry practice that started ...

Optometrist

Terre Haute, IN · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? First Impressions Optometric Associates is a leading eye care company ...

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? TN Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? KY Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Optometrist

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$86.84 - $100.48/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? NC Doctors of Optometry is a leading eye care company serving North ...

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? KY Doctors of Optometry is a doctor-owned, patient-centric practice that ...

Optometrist

Clarksville, IN · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? First Impressions Optometric Associates is a leading eye care company ...

Optometrist

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? First Impressions Optometric Associates is a leading eye care company ...

Optometrist

Tucson, AZ

$130K - $168K/yr

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level. Why us? Sowash Optometry Group is a family-owned optometry practice that started ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Graduate Optometrist information

See salary details

$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do graduate optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate 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 Graduate Optometrists face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Graduate Optometrists often encounter challenges such as building clinical confidence, managing time effectively during patient appointments, and adapting to real-world practice protocols. While university provides a strong theoretical foundation, new graduates may initially feel overwhelmed by the volume and diversity of patients. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in regular case discussions, and actively asking for feedback are effective ways to ease this transition and accelerate professional growth. Most practices encourage collaboration, so don’t hesitate to leverage your team’s expertise.

What are graduate optometrists?

Graduate optometrists are individuals who have recently completed a degree in optometry and are beginning their professional careers, often in a supervised or pre-registration role. They are trained to examine eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses or treatments under the guidance of a fully qualified optometrist. This period allows them to gain practical experience and meet the requirements for full registration or licensure. Graduate optometrists typically work in clinics, hospitals, or private practices as they transition into fully independent practitioners.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Optometrist, you need a degree in optometry, strong clinical skills in eye examination, and knowledge of vision science, along with registration with a relevant professional body. Familiarity with optical diagnostic equipment (such as autorefractors and OCT scanners), as well as experience with practice management software, is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and empathy are vital for delivering effective patient care and building trust. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate diagnoses, optimal patient outcomes, and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Graduate Optometrist vs Optometry Intern?

AspectGraduate OptometristOptometry Intern
CredentialsDegree in Optometry, licensing examEnrolled in or recently completed optometry program
Work EnvironmentClinical practice, eye clinics, private practicesSupervised clinical training, internships
Employer & Industry UsageOptometry clinics, healthcare providersEducational institutions, clinics during training

The main difference is that a Graduate Optometrist has completed their education and licensing, allowing independent practice, while an Optometry Intern is still in training under supervision. Interns gain practical experience before becoming fully licensed Graduate Optometrists.

More about Graduate Optometrist jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Optometrist jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Optometrist job openings:
What states have the most Graduate Optometrist jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Optometrist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Optometrist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Optometrist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Graduate Optometrist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.
Optometrist

Optometrist

Visionworks

Merrillville, IN • On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

First Impressions Optometric Associates
Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable,
changing the lives of their patients each year.
Merrillville, IN - Part-time Optometrist
Pay: $65.00 to $75.00 an hour **negotiable**
Opportunity:
If you are an outstanding Optometrist, whose primary goal is to provide excellent patient care, we are interested in talking to you! First Impressions Optometric Associates is seeking an ambitious and passionate Optometrist who would love a fresh start with a fast-growing company dedicated to helping patients see great, feel great, and look great. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this opportunity can take your career to the next level.
Why us?
First Impressions Optometric Associates is a leading eye care company serving Indiana. Our Optometrists enjoy the benefits of being a Doctor without the hassle of running a business. You focus on patient care, we handle the rest - ie. insurance billing, credentialing, staff hiring & training, and administrative work.
At First Impressions Optometric Associates, you'll have access to advanced diagnostic technology, including optical coherence tomography, visual fields, retinal camera, auto-refractor, and electronic health records to manage patient care seamlessly. OD Technicians or Clinical Specialists will be there to work up patients and provide contact lens care and fittings. First Impressions Optometric Associates does everything to ensure our Doctors have a fulfilling career and work-life balance.
What You'll Do:
As part of First Impressions Optometric Associates, you'll provide comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages, visual and medical conditions. You'll perform patient examinations, recommend vision-enhancing solutions based on prescription findings, handle eye emergencies, and collaborate with staff members to help deliver our commitment to improving access to healthcare.
We're Seeking:
Optometrists with an entrepreneurial spirit dedicated to patient care who strongly desire to help grow the business long-term. Candidates should have excellent clinical and people skills. Must be committed to providing patients with the highest level of care and a wide range of services to ensure optimal eye health and vision for a lifetime.
If interested in joining a terrific team, I warmly invite you to apply
Thank you for your time,
Cassandra Blackwell
OD Recruiter
cblackwell@visionworks.com
Visionworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. With regard to all employment practices, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, sexual orientation, disability, veteran or current military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. We strive to employ and promote only those applicants and employees who are best suited for open positions and who possess the necessary skills, education and qualifications for the job.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.