ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optometry County Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Eyes

Associate Optometrist

La Junta, CO · On-site

$149.62 - $182.88/hr

... optometry practice with two locations in southeast Colorado -- La Junta and Lamar. We provide full ... La Junta is the county seat of Otero County, situated along the Arkansas River with easy access to ...

All JobsOptometry County JobsOptometry County Jobs in Colorado

Optometry County information

What are some common challenges optometrists may face when working in a county public health setting?

Optometrists working in county public health settings often encounter challenges such as managing a high patient volume, addressing the needs of underserved populations, and working with limited resources or equipment. These professionals may collaborate closely with other healthcare providers and public health officials to coordinate patient care and outreach initiatives. Additionally, optometrists in this environment play a key role in promoting eye health education and may need to adapt their approach based on the diverse backgrounds and needs of the community they serve.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optometrist?

To thrive as an Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state licensure, and a strong background in vision science and ocular health. Familiarity with diagnostic equipment such as phoropters, autorefractors, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and patient communication abilities help in delivering quality eye care and building patient trust. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and a positive patient experience.

What is the difference between Optometry County vs Optometry Technician?

AspectOptometry CountyOptometry Technician
Required CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) license, state licensureCertification or training in optometry assisting, no OD license needed
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, private practices, healthcare facilitiesOptometry offices, clinics, optical stores
Employer & Industry UsageOptometrists, healthcare providersOptometrists, optical retailers
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on providing eye care, diagnosis, and treatmentAssists with patient exams, pre-testing, and administrative tasks

Optometry County refers to licensed eye care professionals who diagnose and treat vision problems, requiring an OD license. Optometry Technicians support optometrists by performing pre-tests and assisting during exams, usually without needing a license. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in credentials and responsibilities.

What are Optometry County jobs?

Optometry County jobs typically refer to employment opportunities within county-level public health systems that focus on providing eye care services. These roles can include county-employed optometrists, vision screening technicians, and administrative staff supporting community eye health programs. Professionals in these positions are responsible for conducting eye exams, diagnosing vision problems, prescribing corrective lenses, and sometimes coordinating public health initiatives related to vision care. Working in a county setting often involves serving a diverse population and may include outreach or educational responsibilities. Employment may be found in county health departments, public clinics, or school-based vision programs.
Optometry County jobs near you

Associate Optometrist

Eyes

La Junta, CO • On-site

$149.62 - $182.88/hr

Other

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Ark Valley Vision Care

La Junta & Lamar, Colorado

www.arkvalleyvision.com

ASSOCIATE OPTOMETRIST

Full-Time or Part-Time La Junta, Colorado

About Ark Valley Vision Care

Ark Valley Vision Care is a thriving, independently owned optometry practice with two locations in southeast Colorado — La Junta and Lamar. We provide full-scope optometric care to patients of all ages, from pediatric exams to advanced medical eye care. Our practice is physician-led, community-rooted, and equipped with technology that rivals any urban clinic.

We are proud to offer:
  • Eidon ultra-widefield retinal camera
  • OCT imaging system
  • Virtual reality visual field machine
  • YAG / SLT combination laser
  • Marco OPD III scan corneal topographer / wavefront analyzer / auto-refractor

Our patients are loyal, grateful, and genuinely care about their doctors. In a rural practice, you build real relationships — not a revolving door.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an Associate Optometrist for our La Junta location, with scheduling flexibility for full-time or part-time arrangements. La Junta is the county seat of Otero County, situated along the Arkansas River with easy access to outdoor recreation, ranching culture, and a close-knit community.

This role is ideal for a new graduate or early-career OD who:

  • Wants to practice comprehensive, hands-on optometry
  • Values patient relationships over patient volume
  • Is excited about managing a broad case mix, including medical eye care
  • Grew up in a rural or small-town environment and wants to return to that lifestyle
  • Is drawn to southeast Colorado, or the neighboring states of Kansas, Oklahoma, or New Mexico
Compensation & Benefits

Total annual compensation for ODs: $166,250

  • $120,000 salary based on experience
  • $1700 COA dues & insurance
  • $2500 for CE & associated travel
  • $16,000 estimated health insurance benefit
  • $750 estimated eyecare & eyewear benefit
  • $1000 estimated malpractice insurance
  • $300 gym membership
  • $9000 self-employment tax covered by company
  • $9200 4 weeks PTO
  • $5800 10 paid holidays

Production bonus:

After 6 months, if performance is satisfactory, the associate is eligible to receive 1% production bonus.

After 1 year, the associate is eligible for a 401k match up to 6%.

Candidate can elect to receive these benefits or receive their dollar value in paycheck.

Qualifications
  • Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree required
  • Colorado optometry license, or eligibility to obtain one
  • Full-scope clinical skills; therapeutic licensure preferred
  • Spanish fluency is a plus — not required
  • New graduates are encouraged to apply
Why Southeast Colorado?

La Junta and the surrounding region offer wide-open skies, affordable living, and a pace of life that many optometrists find deeply fulfilling. You will be a known, trusted member of your community. Your patients will remember your name, and you will remember theirs.

We will help you get settled. Housing can be a challenge in La Junta, but we have strong local connections and will personally assist you in finding a home.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply