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Ihs Optometry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supervisory Optometrist

Parker, AZ · On-site +1

$170K - $221K/yr

IHS Selectees whose duties and responsibilities require them to work permanently, temporarily, or ... Applicants must have a Doctor of Optometry degree from an educational program that is accredited by ...

Optometrist

Lawton, OK · On-site

$100/hr

... IHS Departments, i.e., Nutrition, Medical, Business Office, PRC. * Other duties as assigned. Qualifications * Doctor of Optometry * Permanent, current, full and unrestricted license to practice ...

Optometrist

Lame Deer, MT · On-site

$4.0K/wk

Maintain accurate clinical documentation in accordance with IHS standards * Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams Requirements * Active, unrestricted Optometry license (any U.S. state)

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Ihs Optometry information

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$11

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$25

How much do ihs optometry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for ihs optometry in the United States is $18.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is IHS optometry?

IHS Optometry refers to optometrists who work within the Indian Health Service (IHS), a federal agency that provides healthcare services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. These optometrists perform comprehensive eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, diagnose and manage eye diseases, and provide preventative eye care. Working in IHS Optometry often involves serving diverse, often underserved communities, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes. The role can also involve public health initiatives, education, and outreach to promote eye health within tribal communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an IHS optometrist?

To thrive as an IHS Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, active licensure, and strong clinical skills in eye examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), diagnostic imaging tools, and federal healthcare protocols is important. Exceptional communication, cultural sensitivity, and teamwork are vital for serving diverse Native American and Alaska Native populations. These competencies ensure quality patient care and help address unique community health needs within the Indian Health Service system.

What are some common challenges faced by optometrists working in Indian Health Service (IHS) settings?

Optometrists in IHS settings often encounter unique challenges, such as serving patients from diverse cultural backgrounds and addressing health disparities in underserved communities. Limited resources and high patient volumes can require creative problem-solving and adaptability. Collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teams is essential, as optometrists may coordinate care with physicians, nurses, and community health workers. Despite these challenges, many optometrists find the work rewarding due to the opportunity to make a significant impact on community health and gain broad clinical experience.

What is the difference between Ihs Optometry vs Optometric Technician?

AspectIhs OptometryOptometric Technician
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD)Certification or training in optometry assisting
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, healthcare settingsOptometry offices, clinics, vision centers
Job RoleDiagnose and treat eye conditions, prescribe glasses/contact lensesAssist with patient exams, perform preliminary tests, prepare patients

While Ihs Optometry involves diagnosing and managing eye health as a licensed optometrist, Optometric Technicians support optometrists by preparing patients and conducting tests. Both roles work in similar healthcare environments, but Ihs Optometry requires a Doctor of Optometry degree, whereas Optometric Technicians typically need certification or training in assisting roles.

More about Ihs Optometry jobs

What cities are hiring for Ihs Optometry jobs?

Cities with the most Ihs Optometry job openings:

What states have the most Ihs Optometry jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ihs Optometry jobs include:

Infographic showing various Ihs Optometry job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,622 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Optometrist

Duties

Provides direct patient care for optometry patients through exams, diagnosis of visual and ocular problems through external and internal physical evaluation of the eye.

Provides emergency care services including diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic trauma and pathology consistent with clinical services.

Coordinates medical eye care with other physicians within the clinic and refer and coordinates through purchase referred care when necessary.

Assist with provision of screening programs, school programs and diabetic retinopathy.

Provides direct supervision and direction for the Optometry Department for Optometrist and Health Technician to include performance evaluations, recruitment, budget and policies and procedures for the department.

The work involves walking, sitting, standing, reaching and bending in the assessment and treatment of patients.

IHS Selectees whose duties and responsibilities require them to work permanently, temporarily, or occasionally in an IHS healthcare facility must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy related to vaccine-preventable diseases, consistent with recommendations for healthcare workers. Vaccine exemption requests may be available, as outlined in the IHS Employee Immunization Policy and facility guidance.

Total Compensation Package - Check out IHS's outstanding total compensation package for this job: Optometrist Total Compensation | Pay (ihs.gov)