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Locum Optometry Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Locum Optometry information

See Texas salary details

$60.6K

$115.7K

$172.4K

How much do locum optometry jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for locum optometry in Texas is $115,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Texas? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Locum Optometry jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Locum Optometry job openings:
Infographic showing various Locum Optometry job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,724 per year, or $55.6 per hour.

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Jackson and Coker is seeking a highly skilled Glaucoma Specialist for a locum tenens Ophthalmology Physician position in Texas. This role involves providing weekday coverage, starting September/October 2026, with a commitment of 1-2 weeks per month. The position focuses on clinic patients, laser procedures, and surgical cases within a well-supported practice.

Practice Info

  • Average of 30 patients per day
  • Team of 14 Ophthalmologists and 6 Optometrists
  • EMR: EPIC

Responsibilities

  • See clinic patients
  • Perform clinic lasers/procedures
  • Perform surgical cases
  • Perform laser procedures including peripheral iridotomies, SLT’s, ALT’s
  • Perform surgical procedures including Trabeculectomy, Tube Shunts, Blebs

Benefits

  • Top-rated malpractice insurance
  • Full-service in-house travel agency and credentialing coordinators

Shift & Schedule

  • Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm
  • Starts Sept/Oct 2026
  • No call or weekends (unless severe weather which is rare)

Requirements

  • Active Texas license
  • Board Certified required
  • Glaucoma fellowship is mandatory
  • Seeking candidates with a 1-2 week minimum available every month