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Optometry Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fenway Health

Staff Optometrist - Per Diem

Boston, MA · On-site

$87/hr

Under the supervision of the Clinical Director of Optometry, the Staff Optometrist provides ... intern/resident needs are optimized * Participate in presenting didactic topics to the interns

Fenway Health

Staff Optometrist - Per Diem

Boston, MA · On-site

$87/hr

Under the supervision of the Clinical Director of Optometry, the Staff Optometrist provides ... intern/resident needs are optimized * Participate in presenting didactic topics to the interns

Walmart

(USA) Optometrist Pre-Grad Intern - Wm

Grover, MO · On-site

$15 - $32/hr

... Optometry Maintains the Optical area in accordance with Company policies and procedures by properly handling claims and returns damages ensuring optical operations are aligned with Company and ...

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How much do optometry intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Optometry Interns?

Optometry interns are students or recent graduates undergoing supervised practical training in a clinical setting as part of their optometry education. They assist licensed optometrists with eye examinations, vision tests, and patient care, while gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing eye conditions. This internship is a crucial step for developing clinical skills and fulfilling graduation or licensure requirements. Interns typically work in clinics, hospitals, or private practices and are closely supervised to ensure patient safety and learning. The experience helps prepare them for independent practice as optometrists after completing all educational and licensing requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optometry Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optometry Intern, you need a foundational understanding of ocular anatomy, vision science, and clinical assessment techniques, typically gained through enrollment in an accredited optometry program. Familiarity with diagnostic instruments such as slit lamps, autorefractors, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a strong willingness to learn are important soft skills for building patient rapport and adapting to clinical feedback. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing effective patient care, developing clinical competence, and preparing for a successful optometry career.

What Does an Optometry Intern Do?

As an optometry intern, you participate in a training or research program as a student. In this role, you may shadow an optometrist to learn more about their daily work, help make treatment recommendations to a patient, or determine how to apply the science of vision to new products. Optometry internships are available in a variety of different fields, although many associate them with clinical care. An optometry intern working with virtual reality devices may help programmers figure out how to adjust displays to account for the user's inability to wear glasses while using their device. Optometry internships often cross over with other roles, so your daily responsibilities can vary widely between programs.

What is the difference between Optometry Intern vs Optometry Technician?

AspectOptometry InternOptometry Technician
Required CredentialsEnrolled in optometry school, gaining clinical experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentClinical settings, assisting in patient exams under supervisionOptometry offices, assisting with testing and equipment
Employer & Industry UsageOptometry clinics, hospitals, educational institutionsOptometry practices, retail optical stores
Common Search & ComparisonLearning role, future optometristTechnical support, assisting optometrists

Optometry Interns are students gaining hands-on experience during their education, focusing on clinical training under supervision. In contrast, Optometry Technicians are trained staff who assist with patient testing and equipment in optometry practices. Both roles support eye care services but differ in qualifications and responsibilities.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an Optometry Intern during their rotation?

As an Optometry Intern, you can expect to assist licensed optometrists with comprehensive eye exams, conduct preliminary testing, and gain hands-on experience with diagnostic equipment. You'll often interact directly with patients, take detailed case histories, and observe or perform procedures under supervision. Interns also participate in case discussions, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and attend educational seminars, all of which provide valuable exposure to various subspecialties and real-world clinical scenarios. This role is designed to bridge academic knowledge with practical skills, preparing you for independent practice after graduation.
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Optometry Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Intern job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% Full Time, and 73% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Vision Health Intern - KidSight

Saving-Sight

Columbia, MO • On-site

$17/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with setting up and conducting vision screenings for children at schools, childcare centers, and community sites.

  • Accurately enter screening data into the KidSight database.

  • Support the team in organizing and maintaining screening equipment.

Job description

Vision Health Intern (Fall 2026)
Location: Columbia, MO
Hours: 15-20 hours per week; Primarily weekday mornings; occasional afternoons/evenings.
Term: Fall 2026 semester (August-December 2026)
Pay: $17/hour
About the Role: KidSight is seeking a reliable, mission-driven intern to assist with pediatric vision screenings and data entry in the mid-Missouri area. This paid position is perfect for students interested in optometry, ophthalmology, public health, nursing, or education, offering hands-on experience while making a direct impact on children's vision health.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist with setting up and conducting vision screenings for children at schools, childcare centers and kid-friendly community sites.
  • Accurately enter screening data into the KidSight database.
  • Support the team in organizing and maintaining screening equipment.
  • Assist in developing content and storytelling materials that highlight KidSight's impact, programs, events, and vision health education efforts.
  • Communicate with school staff and families in a professional and friendly manner.
  • Follow KidSight protocols to ensure the safety and accuracy of screenings.

Qualifications:
  • An interest in vision health, public health, education, or related fields.
  • Comfortable working with children.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Reliable transportation to screening locations.
  • Able to lift and transport up to 50 pounds of screening equipment
  • Consistent availability on weekday mornings, with some flexibility for occasional afternoons.

What You'll Gain:
  • Hands-on experience in community vision health initiatives.
  • Exposure to working with school systems and nonprofit health programming.
  • An opportunity to contribute to the mission of helping Missouri kids see clearly.

NOTE: The preceding statements describe the nature and level of assignments normally given to job incumbents. They are not an exhaustive list of duties. Additional duties may be assigned. Saving Sight is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We take pride in the diversity of our staff, and seek diversity in our applicants. Saving Sight does not unlawfully discriminate based on any status or condition protected by applicable federal or state law. Saving Sight reserves the right to seek, hire and promote individuals who support the goals and mission of the organization.
At this time, we are only able to consider candidates who do not require current or future sponsorship for employment authorization.

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