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Optometrist

Juneau, AK · On-site

The optometrist is on the Associate Medical Staff and cares for patients of all ages. This position provides support to the Optometrist-Lead in the day-to-day operations of the local Eye Clinic and ...

Costco Optical - U.S.

Optometrist

Naples, FL · On-site

As an independent optometrist, you will have the autonomy to run your practice within the established Costco location. Benefit from the high foot traffic of loyal Costco members while maintaining ...

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Optometrist information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optometrist 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 an Optometrist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state licensure, and a strong understanding of vision science and ocular health. Familiarity with diagnostic instruments such as autorefractors, fundus cameras, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and patient communication abilities help build trust and ensure accurate care. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective eye care, accurate diagnoses, and maintaining high standards of patient satisfaction and safety.

What are the different careers in optometry?

Optometrists can pursue various career paths including clinical practice in private or group practices, working in hospitals or healthcare facilities, conducting research, or teaching at educational institutions. They may also specialize in areas such as pediatric optometry, contact lenses, or low vision rehabilitation, often requiring additional certifications or training. Other roles include roles in industry, such as product development or sales for optical companies, and public health or policy work related to eye care.

What is the difference between Optometrist vs Ophthalmologist?

AspectOptometristOphthalmologist
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD)Medical degree (MD or DO) + ophthalmology residency
Work EnvironmentEye exams, vision tests, prescribing glasses/contact lensesSurgical procedures, medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases
Scope of PracticeVision correction, eye health screeningsDiagnose and treat eye diseases, perform surgeries
Industry UsageOptometry clinics, retail optical storesHospitals, specialized eye clinics, private practices

Optometrists primarily focus on vision correction and eye health screenings, while ophthalmologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat complex eye diseases and perform surgeries. Both play vital roles in eye care but differ in training, scope, and services offered.

What Do Optometrists Do?

An Optometrist screens a patient’s eyes for abnormalities and tests their vision to check if they need corrective lenses. Using a variety of machinery and reading materials, Optometrists determine the current vision of the patient and suggest glasses or contacts to help the patient see more clearly. They also screen for common eye problems, such as dry eyes, infections, and glaucoma. Some optometrists also provide low vision care and vision therapy, or they may refer the patient in these cases to an Ophthalmologist.

What are optometrists?

Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in examining eyes for vision problems, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting certain eye conditions and diseases. They perform eye exams, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and may offer treatment for some eye issues. Unlike ophthalmologists, optometrists do not perform major eye surgeries but can manage many aspects of eye health and work closely with other eye care providers. They play a key role in maintaining good vision and overall eye health for patients of all ages.

What is the burnout rate for optometrists?

Burnout among optometrists is a recognized issue, with studies indicating that approximately 30-40% of eye care professionals experience symptoms of burnout, often related to workload, patient interactions, and administrative tasks. Factors such as long hours, high patient volume, and the need for ongoing education can contribute to stress levels in the profession.

What are some common challenges an Optometrist may face when working in a high-volume practice?

Optometrists in high-volume practices often encounter time management challenges, as they must balance delivering thorough patient care with seeing a large number of patients each day. Additionally, keeping up with detailed patient documentation and managing administrative tasks can add to the workload. Effective communication and teamwork with support staff, such as optometric assistants and receptionists, are essential to maintain workflow efficiency and patient satisfaction. Staying updated on the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment options is also important for providing high-quality care in a fast-paced environment.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometrists typically work in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or as part of private practices with advanced procedures. They often have additional certifications and extensive experience, which can significantly increase earning potential, with some earning over $150,000 annually. Leadership roles like clinic directors or practice owners also tend to offer higher compensation.

What else can I do with an optometry degree?

An optometry degree allows you to work as an optometrist, providing eye exams, diagnosing vision problems, and prescribing corrective lenses. Graduates can also pursue careers in vision research, ophthalmic product sales, or healthcare management, often requiring additional certifications or specialized training. The degree provides a foundation for roles in clinical practice, industry, or education related to eye health.
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Optometrist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometrist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Optometrist

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Key West, FL • On-site

$78K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

PLEASE READ THE COMPLETE ANNOUNCEMENT TO ENSURE YOU UNDERSTAND THE QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and will remain on file through December 31, 2026 Eligible applicants will be referred each month as vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled
Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: All applicants must meet the following basic qualifications.
  • Citizenship. Must be a citizen of the United States.
  • Education. Must have a Degree of doctor of optometry resulting from a course of education in optometry. The degree must have been obtained from one of the schools or colleges approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the year in which the course of study was completed. Approved schools are: (1) United States and Canadian schools or colleges of optometry listed as accredited by the Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association, in the list published for the year in which the course of study was completed. -OR- (2) Schools (including foreign schools) accepted by the licensing body of a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia as qualifying for full or unrestricted licensure
  • Licensure or Registration. You must possess an active, full and unrestricted license to practice optometry in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia; and to maintain a current registration in your State of licensure if this is a requirement of the particular State.
  • English Language Proficiency. Must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) and 7407(d)
  • Physical Standards. Must pass a pre-employment examination. See below for additional information.
GRADE REQUIREMENTS: In addition to the basic requirements above, all applicants must also meet one of the following grade requirements for a specific grade level.
  • Associate Grade. None beyond the basic requirements.
  • Full Grade. Two years of optometric practice or its equivalent. One year of approved residency training or its creditable equivalent acceptable to the Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association is acceptable in lieu of the 2 years of practice. Candidate must have demonstrated the professional competence and performance necessary to provide independently the full range of clinical optometric diagnosis and treatment for all the most prevalent types of vision dysfunctions and the detection and referral of patients with ocular disease or ocular manifestations of systemic disease.
  • Intermediate Grade. Meets the requirements in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) below:(1) Four years of optometric practice or its equivalent. One year of approved residency training or its creditable equivalent acceptable to the Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association is acceptable in lieu of 2 years of practice.(2) The optometrist at this level has successfully passed the examinations of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry(3) Has achieved a high level of professional attainment
  • Senior Grade. Meets the requirements for Intermediate grade and the requirements in paragraphs (1) and (2) below:(1) The optometrist at this level possesses such academic stature as would warrant a faculty appointment of a professional level in an approved school or college of optometry.(2) Has demonstrated recognized superior professional attainment
  • Chief Grade. Meets the requirements for Senior grade and must demonstrate a sustained very high level of professional performance with evidence of exceptional professional and/or administrative development by the following:(1) Has assumed substantial professional and/or administrative responsibilities in which the individual is expected to fully advise and make professional clinical and educational recommendations as to courses of action on problems and considerations of national scope in all areas of optometry. Typically, the optometrist at this level has had responsibility for a major optometric program segment on a nationwide basis and has been consistently called upon to represent the organization in an authoritative manner in matters dealing with development of new and/or revised concepts and programs having a major impact upon the academic, medical, and optometric communities.(2) Outstanding professional attainment. Examples of such attainment are:(a) Achievement of outstanding results in research which are regarded as having a major impact on advancing the field.(b) Significant number of noteworthy publications in professional journals.
References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G5
Physical Requirements: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination as required by VA Handbook 5019. This examination is administered by VA Occupational Health. This position requires moderate lifting up to 44 lbs., carrying objects up to 15 lbs., frequent reaching above shoulder, use of fingers, hands and legs, use of cranes and motor vehicles, walking & standing up to 8 hours, bending and climbing and able to hear whisper. This position requires visual acuity, keen hearing, clear distinctive speech, and manual dexterity. Potentially long periods of continued walking, standing, stooping, sitting, bending, pulling, and pushing. Transferring patients and objects may be required. May be exposed to infected patients and contaminated materials and may be required to don protective clothing in isolation situations or operative/invasive procedures. May occasionally be exposed to patients who are combative secondary to delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders. Must be a mature, flexible, sensible individual capable of working effectively in stressful situations and able to shift priorities based on patient needs. Must complete annual Employee Health requirements, such as annual TB screening or testing, as a condition of employment. Must be physically, emotionally and mentally competent and able to perform efficiently the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, without hazard to yourself or othersEducation:
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER

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