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Locum Optometry Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Locum Optometry information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$63.2K

$120.7K

$179.8K

How much do locum optometry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for locum optometry in Raleigh, NC is $120,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,300.00 and $141,900.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Locum Optometry jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Locum Optometry jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Locum Optometry jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Locum Optometry job openings:

Infographic showing various Locum Optometry job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 52% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,746 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Locum | Optometrist | Butner, North Carolina (Correctional Medicine)

Butner FCC

Butner, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Details
Client Name
Butner FCC
Job Type
Locum
Offering
Physician/Advanced Practice
Profession
Physician
Specialty
Optometrist
Job ID
36899744
Job Title
Locum | Optometrist | Butner, North Carolina (Correctional Medicine)
Weekly Pay
$139.2
Shift Details
Shift
Locum 8a-5p
Scheduled Hours
8
Job Order Details
Start Date
05/20/2026
End Date
05/15/2027
Duration
52 Week(s)
Job Description
TinkBird Healthcare Staffing is actively seeking a Locum Tenens Optometrist for a correctional medicine opportunity in Butner, North Carolina. This role offers a structured outpatient clinical environment with flexible scheduling and ongoing monthly coverage potential.
Position Details
Job Type: Locum Tenens
Specialty: Optometry
Setting: Correctional Medicine Facility
Location: Butner, North Carolina
Schedule: Approximately 2 shifts per month (flexible)
Shift Length: 8-hour days (hours may vary)
Start Date: ASAP
On-Call Requirements: None specified
Once onboarded, the provider will collaborate with the Scheduler by submitting their availability on an ongoing basis. Scheduling is a coordinated effort between the provider, the Onsite team, and the agency to ensure appropriate coverage and alignment with clinic needs.
Clinical Responsibilities
Perform routine and medically necessary eye examinations
Diagnose and manage visual and ocular conditions
Prescribe corrective lenses as appropriate
Evaluate and manage chronic eye diseases including glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye conditions
Provide follow-up care and treatment recommendations
Coordinate referrals for advanced ophthalmologic evaluation or surgical intervention when necessary
Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
Requirements
OD degree required
Active North Carolina Optometry license required/preferred based on facility requirements
Prior clinical optometry experience preferred
Strong diagnostic and patient care skills
Ability to work independently in a correctional medicine environment
Compensation
Competitive all-inclusive locum tenens rate
Flexible scheduling
Practice Environment
Structured correctional healthcare setting
Adult patient population
Outpatient consultative environment
Ongoing monthly coverage potential
About TinkBird Healthcare Staffing
TinkBird Healthcare Staffing is a locum tenens and permanent placement healthcare recruiting firm connecting healthcare organizations with high-quality clinical talent. We operate with a focus on communication, collaboration, and accountability. TinkBird is a small, woman-owned business employer and encourages minority and female candidates to apply.
If interested, please apply or email your resume to Kayla Garza at Kayla@TinkBird.com or call/text (984) 849-0899.
Client Details
Address
3000 Old 75 Hwy
City
Butner
State
NC
Zip Code
27509