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Lead Optometrist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hero Practice Services

Optometric Technician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

This position will report to the Lead Optometric Assistant. This position will be at-will, meaning either the employer or the employee may terminate the employment at any time, with or without cause ...

Hero Practice Services

Optometric Technician

Aurora, CO · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

This position will report to the Lead Optometric Assistant. Pay range: $16-$22/hr Job Responsibilities * Understand, monitor, and ensure the smooth execution of office processes, including coding and ...

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Lead Optometrist information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do lead optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead 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 is a lead optometrist?

Lead Optometrists are eye care professionals who not only perform eye exams and diagnose vision problems but also oversee the clinical operations of an optometry practice or department. They supervise other optometrists and staff, ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, and contribute to business decisions like staff training and workflow improvements. Their role combines clinical expertise with leadership responsibilities to maintain high standards of patient care and practice efficiency.

What does a lead optometrist do?

As a Lead Optometrist, you will often split your time between providing direct patient care and overseeing the daily operations of the optometry team. This includes managing schedules, mentoring junior optometrists, ensuring compliance with clinical protocols, and occasionally handling administrative tasks such as inventory or budgeting. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential, as you will need to coordinate across clinical staff, support personnel, and sometimes liaise with external vendors or upper management. This dual focus allows you to maintain your clinical skills while also developing leadership experience, which can be beneficial for future career advancement.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a lead optometrist?

To thrive as a Lead Optometrist, you need extensive clinical knowledge of ocular health, a Doctor of Optometry degree, state licensure, and experience in patient care and vision correction. Familiarity with diagnostic equipment such as autorefractors, OCT, EHR systems, and sometimes certifications in specialty areas like therapeutics are common. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for managing a team and ensuring outstanding patient service. These competencies ensure accurate diagnoses, effective team management, and the delivery of high-quality eye care in a clinical setting.

What is the difference between Lead Optometrist vs Optometrist?

AspectLead OptometristOptometrist
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) license, additional leadership trainingDoctor of Optometry (OD) license
Work EnvironmentClinics, eye care centers, supervisory rolesOptometry clinics, private practices, retail eyewear stores
Employer & Industry UsageOften employed in larger clinics or organizations with leadership responsibilitiesIndependent or group practices, retail chains
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, management, overseeing staffPatient care, eye exams, vision correction

The main difference between a Lead Optometrist and an Optometrist is that the Lead Optometrist typically holds additional leadership responsibilities, overseeing staff and managing clinic operations, while the Optometrist primarily focuses on patient eye care and vision correction. Both roles require the Doctor of Optometry license, but the Lead Optometrist combines clinical expertise with managerial duties.

More about Lead Optometrist jobs

What cities are hiring for Lead Optometrist jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Optometrist job openings:

What job categories do people searching Lead Optometrist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Optometrist jobs are:

Lead Optometrist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Optometrist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Optometrist

National Vision Doctor of Optometry Network

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Optometrist

Ready to step into practice ownership — without starting from scratch?

We're offering a fully equipped sublease opportunity in a high-traffic optical location. It's a turnkey setup for optometrists who want to deliver excellent care while also building long-term financial growth. With a consistent schedule, a built-in patient base, and retail support, you can focus on care, while growing a practice that reflects your values and leadership.

Ownership made easier — lead with integrity, care deeply, and grow something you're proud of

As an independent Optometrist under a sublease model, you'll have the chance to deliver outstanding patient care using top-tier diagnostic and exam technology — all in a modern, professional setting.

Here's what you can expect:

  • You'll lead your own practice with complete autonomy
  • Overseeing operations, mentor staff, and create a patient experience that feels personal, professional, and proud.

Licensed (or eligible) to practice Optometry in the state where you'll practice.

For more information, please visit the website.

Apply