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Optometry Internships Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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 Oregon? For Optometry Internships jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Optometry Internships jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Optometry Internships job openings:
Infographic showing various Optometry Internships job openings in Oregon as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution.
Optician- Forest Grove Eye Clinic

Optician- Forest Grove Eye Clinic

PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

Forest Grove, OR • On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Pacific University achieves excellence and distinction by investing in exceptional people to think, care, create, and pursue justice in our world. We embrace discovery in a close and nurturing environment that leads to genuine transformation. Our community is diverse, sustainable, and dedicated to discovery and excellence in teaching, scholarship, and practice.
At Pacific University, we thrive in an extraordinary environment, surrounded by the beauty of the great Pacific Northwest, with campus locations in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, and Eugene. We humbly acknowledge and thank the original caretakers of the lands on which we live, work, teach, and acquire and share knowledge.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:
Responsible for providing optical services and administrative support at the Forest Grove Eye Clinic. Bilingual-English and Spanish Preferred.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Greet and provide optical assistance to patients and student interns. This includes frame selection, dispensing, adjusting, repairs, and responding to telephone inquiries, being professional, positive and utilizing strong customer service skills.
  • Determine specific data for prescription orders, verify completeness of orders prepared by students, process orders based on appropriate third party payer requirements, track status of orders and determine cause for delays, and provide for verification of materials received from labs.
  • Responsible for maintaining communications with patients while material orders are in process. This includes notifying patients of order delays, contacting patients when orders are ready for dispensing, responding to optical related inquiries, etc.
  • Serve as a technical resource to interns, staff optometrists, and faculty regarding optical products and managed care coverage of materials. This requires maintaining current knowledge on latest developments in the industry through review of literature and continuing education.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality, follow HIPAA policy and procedures to protect patient medical and financial information.
  • Process patient orders including collection of fees, proper patient care documentation, posting payments, updating and verifying information in the electronic health record (EHR).
  • Work closely with the reception office staff to insure proper coordination of patient care activities.
  • Willingly performs other position related or implied tasks, and works with the Directors of Clinic, Director of Ophthalmic Services and Clinic Manager, and/or Associate Dean of Clinical Programs, and administrative staff to continuously explore ways to improve clinical hands-on student

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:
Perform other related duties as assigned.
JOB SCOPE:
Performs duties independently with minimal supervision, operating from specific and definite directions and instructions, yet work is checked or verified. Decisions are made within general university policy constraints but occasionally require independent decision making. Errors could affect smooth and efficient optical/clinic operations.
SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY:
Job has no supervisory responsibility.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Three years practical experience in dispensing or documented successful completion of a one year or longer academic program in dispensing opticianry or optical technology with a dispensing emphasis.
  • Must possess or obtain ABO Certification within one year of hire date.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & BEHAVIORS:
  • Communicates with students, faculty, staff and the public appropriate to the age of the individual served.
  • Builds on basic learning and carries it from one situation to another.
  • Demonstrates critical thinking skills in problem solving and decision-making.
  • Asks questions and seeks assistance.
  • Takes responsibility to eliminate the source of problems.
  • Demonstrates confidentiality regarding information pertaining to all students, faculty and staff.
  • Maintains proper appearance and personal conduct for the employee's particular job.
  • Uses effective communication skills taking into consideration body language, filters, listening, paraphrasing, and questions with all customers.
  • Demonstrates ability to work in a team environment.
  • Strong word processing and database management skills. Working knowledge of computers and standard office equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to support, and maintain diversity among students, faculty, and staff and works to establish and maintain a diverse and inclusive work environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to apply good judgment and a professional manner when interacting with students, patients, faculty, optometric physicians, co-workers, and others in the health care community.
  • Proven ability to work within the guidelines of good Optometric practice.
  • Professional appearance and a high level of self-motivation and interest in optometry program development.
  • Strong word processing and database management skills. Working knowledge of computers and standard office equipment
  • Must comply with HIPAA rules and procedures as described in the Pacific University College of Optometry Privacy Policies and Procedures Manual.
  • Must possess the skills and motivation necessary to work independently and as a team member.
  • Ability to respect the roles and challenges of staff, students, faculty, College administration, and other members of the University community.
  • Must be willing to travel as needed to satellite EyeTrends optical locations.
  • Must be highly organized, flexible, sensitive to meeting deadlines, able to exercise good judgment in prioritizing and developing efficient work methods.
  • Bilingual - English and Spanish - preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Must be willing to adapt work schedule to meet the needs of the EyeTrends Optical.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:
x Climbing x Stooping x Kneeling x Crouching x Reaching x Standing x Walking x Pushing x Pulling x Lifting x Fingering
x Grasping x Talking x Hearing x Repetitive motion
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS :
x Sedentary work x Light work x Visual acuity
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, please upload your resume along with your Paycom application.
Only qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. During the selection process, we will strive to provide timely notifications. The selection process may vary from recruitment to recruitment but typically includes multiple interviews and may take several weeks depending on the position. All qualified applicants will be notified once the selection process has closed.
Offers of employment at Pacific University are contingent upon proof of eligibility to work in the United States and completion of a background check.
At Pacific University, we are dedicated to offering experiences that are authentic, holistic, equity-minded, and responsive. Our communal success rests on the recognition that complex problems and effective solutions are best approached by teams with a variety of diverse perspectives. and life experiences. As we continue to develop our equity practices, we actively promote access to opportunities and equitable pay for all employees.
We, who make up Pacific University, aspire to become a community of purpose where everyone is enabled to be wholly and comfortably who they are; accountable for inclusive behaviors and practices; built on trust, civility, care, openness, and honest conversations often around critical subjects. We know that these values are critical to prepare for a global world with complex problems, through an asset-based mindset so that every one is afforded an opportunity to succeed. We believe in fostering a workplace where every employee is respected, their contributions are valued, and they are provided opportunities to succeed.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
We offer a comprehensive benefits package for qualifying employees. Current benefits include:
  • Generous paid time off (for vacation, holidays-including winter break-and sick leave)
  • Medical coverage with alternative care options (with in-network services covered at 100% after payroll deduction)
  • Comprehensive dental and vision plans
  • Generous retirement contribution after one year of service with no match required
  • Free mental health appointments
  • Tuition remission for employees and their dependent child(ren) who meet eligibility requirements
  • On-campus benefits, including free access to our sports facility and library
  • Discounts on campus food, bookstore purchases, clinic services, and outdoor program gear rentals (including kayaks, snowshoes, and bikes)

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to complying with all applicable laws, including those concerning employment and workplace policies. We are committed to fostering a non-discriminatory and inclusive work environment. We are proud to encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups.