ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optometry Research Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Optometrist

Perry, FL · On-site

$73K/yr

Degree of Doctor of Optometry resulting from a course of education in optometry. The degree must ... Examples of such attainment are: (a) Achievement of outstanding results in research which are ...

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Optometrist

Ocala, FL · On-site

$73K/yr

Degree of Doctor of Optometry resulting from a course of education in optometry. The degree must ... Examples of such attainment are: (a) Achievement of outstanding results in research which are ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptometry Research JobsOptometry Research Jobs in Florida

Optometry Research information

See Florida salary details

$8

$16

$27

How much do optometry research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry research in Florida is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optometry Research vs Optometry?

AspectOptometry ResearchOptometry
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) or research-specific degreesDoctor of Optometry (OD)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry settingsClinics, private practices, healthcare facilities
Job FocusConducting studies, developing new treatments, advancing knowledgePatient care, vision correction, eye health assessments
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, pharmaceutical companiesOptometry clinics, healthcare providers, retail optical stores

Optometry Research focuses on scientific studies and developing new eye care treatments, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Optometry involves direct patient care, diagnosing, and treating vision problems. Both roles require an OD degree, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optometry research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optometry research often encounter challenges such as limited access to large, diverse patient populations for clinical studies, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology, and securing research funding. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including clinicians, data scientists, and industry partners, can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, engaging with academic institutions and professional organizations can provide valuable networking opportunities and access to shared resources, facilitating both research and career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in optometry research?

To thrive in Optometry Research, you need a solid background in vision science, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree (PhD or OD) in optometry or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and compliance with research ethics and clinical trial protocols is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure rigorous scientific inquiry, accurate results, and meaningful contributions to advancements in eye care.

What is optometry research?

Optometry research involves the scientific study of vision, eye health, and visual systems, typically with the goal of improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye diseases and vision disorders. Researchers in this field may investigate topics such as new treatments for eye conditions, the development of advanced diagnostic tools, or the impact of visual impairment on quality of life. This research helps inform clinical practices and can lead to innovations in eye care and vision correction technologies.

What are popular job titles related to Optometry Research jobs in Florida?

For Optometry Research jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optometry Research jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Optometry Research jobs in Florida are:

Optometry Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Research job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,541 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Optometrist

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Perry, FL • On-site

$73K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

PLEASE READ THE COMPLETE ANNOUNCEMENT TO ENSURE YOU UNDERSTAND THE QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMIT A COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKET.
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:
  • United States Citizenship: Must be a US Citizen.
  • Education: 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. 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: In accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) and 7407(d) optometrists appointed to direct patient-care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English.
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements above, all applicants must meet one of the following requirements to qualify 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.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
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, use of hands and fingers, use of cranes and motor vehicles, walking, standing, bending and climbing. The incumbent must be physically and mentally able to efficiently perform the essential functions of this position without hazard to themselves or others.Education: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

Apply