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Locum Optometry Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Locum Optometry information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$67K

$128K

$190.6K

How much do locum optometry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for locum optometry in Chicago, IL is $127,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $150,400.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Locum Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL? For Locum Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Locum Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Locum Optometry jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Locum Optometry jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Locum Optometry job openings:
Locum Optometry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locum Optometry job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 54% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,958 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Locum Optometrist Opportunity | Stickney, IL $1000/day

Chicago Eye Consultants

Stickney, IL • On-site

$1.0K/day

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

1099 IC- Locum Optometrist Opportunity | Stickney, IL $1000/day | Malpractice Covered | 8/24- 11/14 | 3 days a week

Chicago Eye Associates is seeking a part time, temporary Optometrist (1099 Independent Contractor) to join our well-established primary eye care practice in Stickney. This opportunity begins August 24th and will continue until November 14th, working 3 days a week, Tue-Fri, 8-5. This Optometrist will see 30-32 patients per day on average.

Daily rate - $1000 per 8-hour day.

If you’re an Illinois licensed Medical Optometrist looking for a well-supported practice, modern technology, and a steady, manageable patient flow in a great location, this is an excellent opportunity.

Clinical Scope

The provider will perform medically focused comprehensive eye examinations to diagnose, treat, and co-manage ocular diseases, provide cataract post-operative care, and perform ocular health evaluations utilizing diagnostic testing including OCT, fundus photography, visual field testing, and anterior segment imaging. This is a clinic-based position with no on-call requirements.

Interested? Let’s Connect

Email: Suzanne Richards, Director of Provider Talent Acquisition EyeCare Services Partners suzanne.richards@espmgmt.com

Call/Text: 214-202-9387

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