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Locum Optometry Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Locum Optometry information

What is locum optometry?

Locum optometry refers to optometrists who work on a temporary or contractual basis, filling in for permanent staff at various clinics, hospitals, or optical practices. Locum optometrists may cover for vacations, staff shortages, or peak periods, and they often enjoy flexible schedules and diverse work environments. This role allows optometrists to gain broad experience across different settings while maintaining autonomy over their work commitments.

What is the difference between Locum Optometry vs Permanent Optometry?

AspectLocum OptometryPermanent Optometry
CredentialsRequires valid optometry license and sometimes temporary permitsRequires full licensure and possibly additional certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary clinics, hospitals, or retail settingsLong-term clinics, private practices, or hospitals
Employment TypeShort-term, contract-basedFull-time or part-time, ongoing employment
Industry UsageCommon for filling staffing gaps or covering leaveStandard employment for stable practice operations

In summary, Locum Optometry offers flexible, short-term positions ideal for covering staffing needs, while Permanent Optometry provides ongoing employment within established practices. Both roles require proper licensure and are integral to the optometry industry.

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

To thrive as a Locum Optometrist, you need a degree in optometry, registration with the relevant professional body, and strong clinical assessment skills. Familiarity with optical equipment, electronic health record systems, and often various practice management software is crucial. Excellent communication, adaptability, and the ability to quickly build rapport with new teams and patients set outstanding locum optometrists apart. These skills ensure high-quality patient care and smooth integration into different clinical environments, which is vital for success in temporary roles.

What are some common challenges faced by locum optometrists, and how can they be managed?

Locum optometrists often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new practice environments, systems, and patient demographics with each assignment. Building rapport with staff and patients in a short time frame and staying up-to-date with different equipment or procedures can require strong communication and flexibility. To manage these challenges, it helps to arrive early to become familiar with the clinic setup, proactively communicate with the team, and maintain an organized system for tracking appointments and patient notes. Many locum optometrists also network with colleagues for support and share best practices to ensure smooth transitions between placements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Locum Optometry jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Locum Optometry job openings:
Infographic showing various Locum Optometry job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Physician - Ophthalmology in Illinois

VISTA Staffing Solutions

Urbana, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Are you an Ophthalmologist, searching for your next perm position? This position with one of VISTA’s healthcare partners in Champaign, Illinois might just be the opportunity for you!
Opportunity Highlights

  • Join our established and growing Ophthalmology practice
  • We are looking for a BC/BE Comprehensive Ophthalmologist who is motivated to manage a variety of ophthalmic conditions and perform a high volume of cataract surgery. The ideal candidate is a motivated, personable, team-player who possesses strong medical and surgical skills
  • Join a collegial work environment with colleagues that will provide mentorship and support your continued professional development. Our current provider group consists of 5 Ophthalmologists, 5 Optometrists, 1 Low Vision specialist, 5 ABOC Opticians and a dedicated Eye EMR support team. Specialists include Vitreoretinal Surgery, Medical Retina, Cornea, Pediatric Ophthalmology, and Neuro-Ophthalmology
  • Busy, ready-made, full volume practice with a strong referral base
  • Flexible employment status; candidates interested in part-time or full-time positions welcome to apply
  • Two-year guaranteed base salary
  • Minimal call responsibilities (1:5) to support an excellent work/life balance
  •  Large optometric referral network
  • Affiliated with University of Illinois
  • Not-for-profit organization with public service loan forgiveness eligibility
  • Competitive salary with full and comprehensive benefits package
  • Global connected, innovative and culturally rich, Champaign-Urbana is centrally located to Chicago, Indianapolis and St. Louis and is home to one of the world's great public research universities - the big Ten University of Illinois. With ease of transportation, excellent schools and affordable housing options, our community features the friendliness and advantages of a smaller town while offering the dining, arts, sports, and entertainment options found in a much larger city. 


About VISTA Staffing
A ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Client and Talent 10-Year Diamond Award winner, VISTA has 30 years of experience optimizing continuity of care for hospitals, medical practices and government agencies across the US. A leading provider of short-term US locum tenens and permanent physician search services, VISTA partners healthcare providers with facilities who need them most, providing an effective strategy for lessening the impact of the global provider shortage. Our VISTA team goes above and beyond to make healthcare providers feel valued in the job search process and are committed to elevating careers to new heights. For more information, visit https://www.vistastaff.com.