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Locum Optometry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Locum Optometrist needed near Havre, MT Indian Health Facility - Will Accept ANY STATE LICENSE - MT preferred but not needed. Credentialing: 2-3 weeks Start: As soon as credentialed End: October 5 ...

Locum Optometrist needed near Havre, MT Indian Health Facility - Will Accept ANY STATE LICENSE - MT preferred but not needed. Credentialing: 2-3 weeks Start: As soon as credentialed End: October 5 ...

Locum Tenens • Location: Oakland, CA • Service Setting: Outpatient/Hospital • Coverage Type ... Pediatric optometry, strabismus, binocular vision exams, developmental and high-acuity pediatric ...

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Locum Tenens Optometrist needed in Schurz, Nevada $120/hr + travel expenses (flight, rental car, client has 2 bed apartment available) Outpatient IHS Health Center - Eye Clinic ANY STATE LICENSE ...

Other Physician

Schurz, NV · On-site

$120/hr

Locum Tenens Optometrist needed in Schurz, Nevada $120/hr + travel expenses (flight, rental car, client has 2 bed apartment available) Outpatient IHS Health Center - Eye Clinic ANY STATE LICENSE ...

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Locum Optometry information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do locum optometry jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for locum optometry 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 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 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.

More about Locum Optometry jobs
What cities are hiring for Locum Optometry jobs? Cities with the most Locum Optometry job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs? The most popular types of Optometry jobs are:
What states have the most Locum Optometry jobs? States with the most job openings for Locum Optometry jobs include:

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Locum Optometrist - OD - Modesto, CA
Short staffed, their full-time OD went on Maternity leave and is now working very minimal hours. Need a full-time locum to see patients in Modesto.
Hourly + Travel Expenses
FQHC
Credentialing: 3 weeks
Start: 10/13/25
End: 1/9/26
LOA: 12 weeks with definite possibility of extension
Schedule: M-F 8A-5P - May be able to accommodate 4 x 10hr days
If someone is looking part-time, still please send
Patient Volume: 18/21 is average, however, there is a no-show rate of 10-20% - All ages
Procedures: Refraction, Diagnose Vision problems and eye diseases, test patients visual acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate their eyes, analyze test results, and develop a treatment plan, and administer drugs for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Includes the performance targeted of a history and physical exam. Evaluate, diagnose, treat, and provide consultation to pediatric, adolescent and adult patients presenting with vision problems and eye diseases. Detection and non-surgical treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma, cataracts, and Macular Degeneration. Diabetic Eye Care including retinal screening. Treatment of acute eye conditions such as infections, and corneal abrasions.
General exams (no contacts) Provider will not have to do contact lenses or fittings Need them to see as young as 8 years old - they do have quite a few younger kids.
EMR: EPIC
License: CA License
Certifications: B C Optometry or truly BE with proof of eligibility
Relevant Experience: Must be confident and able to work solo.
Other Additional Information: 1 MA (goal is to have 1.5 MA's, they are hiring more 1 PSR (Patient services Rep/Front desk person) Appointments are scheduled through their call center in Atwater, CA