ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optometry Internships Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

UAB

OPTOMETRIC SPECIALIST

Tampa, FL

$32.15/hr

Lead the onboarding and clinical training of optometry student interns, including the strategic planning and management of quarterly after-hours training sessions. * Revenue Cycle Management: Prepare ...

All JobsOptometry Internships JobsOptometry Internships Jobs in Florida

Optometry Internships information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Optometry Internships, and why are they important?

To thrive in Optometry Internships, you need a foundational understanding of vision science, ocular anatomy, and clinical procedures, typically gained through optometry coursework and enrollment in an accredited optometry program. Familiarity with diagnostic instruments, electronic health record systems, and vision testing tools is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn from feedback help interns excel in patient care and professional development. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate assessments, effective patient interactions, and successful transition into full-time optometric practice.

What are optometry internships?

Optometry internships are structured, hands-on learning experiences for students or recent graduates pursuing a career in optometry. These internships provide practical training under the supervision of licensed optometrists in clinical or research settings. During an internship, participants gain valuable skills in eye examinations, patient care, and the use of diagnostic equipment. Internships are essential for building real-world experience, enhancing professional networks, and meeting licensure requirements in some regions.

What is the difference between Optometry Internships vs Optometry Assistants?

AspectOptometry InternshipsOptometry Assistants
Required CredentialsUsually students pursuing optometry degrees; some may have completed courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care centers, hospitalsOptometry offices, retail eye care stores
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and training programs, internships for studentsPractices hiring assistants for patient support and administrative tasks
Common Search & Comparison IntentLearning about training opportunities in optometryUnderstanding support roles in eye care practices

Optometry Internships are primarily training opportunities for students pursuing an optometry degree, focusing on gaining clinical experience. Optometry Assistants are support staff members who assist with patient care and administrative duties. While both roles are integral to eye care practices, internships are educational, whereas assistants are employed staff members.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an optometry internship?

As an optometry intern, you will typically gain practical experience through supervised patient care, including conducting eye exams, learning to use diagnostic equipment, and assisting with contact lens fittings. Interns often rotate through various clinical settings—such as private practices, hospitals, or specialty clinics—to broaden their exposure. You will also have opportunities to observe and participate in the management of ocular diseases, patient education, and sometimes optical dispensing. These experiences are designed to help you apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios and build confidence before entering professional practice.
What are popular job titles related to Optometry Internships jobs in Florida? For Optometry Internships jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Internships jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Internships jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Optometry Internships jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Optometry Internships job openings:
Optometry Internships jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Internships job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution.
OPTOMETRIC SPECIALIST

OPTOMETRIC SPECIALIST

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Tampa, FL

$32.15/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

University Of Alabama At Birmingham rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

224th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

To assist in the operation of UAB Eye Care by managing a high volume of medically necessary contact lens cases, professional dispensing of eyeglasses, and training optometry student interns. While primarily based in the Contact Lens Department, this role is a key driver in the strategic consolidation of contact lens and optical services into a single, unified dispensing department. The position reports directly to the Optical Manager. 
Key Duties Responsibilities:
  • Patient Order Management: Oversee the full lifecycle of contact lens and eyewear orders and patient management; coordinate and execute specialized after-hours contact lens programs on a quarterly basis. 
  • Clinical Dispensing Integration: Perform daily activities of the dispensary, assisting patients in selecting and ordering eyewear as the contact lens and optical departments transition into a single unified unit.
  • Medically Necessary Lens Coordination: Manage a high volume of specialty and medically necessary contact lens cases, including the intensive processing and approval of prior authorizations for these complex fits. 
  • Clinical Mentorship Training: Lead the onboarding and clinical training of optometry student interns, including the strategic planning and management of quarterly after-hours training sessions. 
  • Revenue Cycle Management: Prepare, review, and submit optical and contact lens insurance claims electronically; post payments and ensure accuracy within the EHR system.
  • Account Resolution: Follow up with insurance payers on processed claims, denials, or uncompleted claims; perform all refund adjustments and payment corrections. 
  • Administrative Stewardship: Manage untimely filing and write-offs; partner with management and the contracting department to ensure insurance contracts are up to date to minimize loss. 
  • Patient Counseling: Advise patients on insurance coverage, billing, promotions, and available clinical or lens options. 
  • Technical Services: Provide fabrication and assembly of eyewear, as well as repairs and adjustments to existing frames. 
  • Documentation: Accurately document all patient account activity and clinical interactions, both written and oral, within the EHR system. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 
(Hourly Rate:  19.80  -  $32.15)
High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement. ABO, or NCLE, or COA or willingness to obtain within one (1) year of hire date.
Technical Skills: Computer proficiency; experience with Microsoft Office programs and Electronic Health Records (EHR). 
Knowledge: Medical or ophthalmic terminology and basic anatomy and physiology preferred. Preferred Licenses Certifications ABO: American Board of Opticianry certification required, or willingness to obtain within 1 year of hire. NCLE: National Contact Lens Examiners certification preferred.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

What University Of Alabama At Birmingham employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

University of Alabama at Birmingham logo

About University of Alabama at Birmingham

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is the heartbeat of Birmingham and an integral medical leader in the Southeast. The Birmingham campus is within walking distance of some of the best parks, entertainment, and dining in the region. UAB's three regional campuses expand their academic reach and responsibilities in addition to educating physicians in rural and underserved areas of the state. UAB is experiencing major and sustained investment and growth, due both to its exceptional research faculty and its culture of collaboration. Through concerted and strategic investments in its clinical and research enterprise, UAB has undergone an amazing transformation in the past five years and has strengthened its status and reputation as a leader in medical training, biomedical discovery, innovation, and patient care.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1859

View All University of Alabama at Birmingham Jobs

Apply