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Optometry Student Internship 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 ...

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Optometry Student Internship information

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

As an optometry student intern, you will typically gain hands-on experience by assisting licensed optometrists with comprehensive eye exams, performing preliminary testing, and learning to use diagnostic equipment. You'll also interact with patients, practice taking patient histories, and observe or assist in procedures such as refraction and contact lens fittings. Interns often rotate through different clinical settings, which helps build practical skills and exposes you to various patient demographics and eye conditions. This real-world experience is invaluable for building confidence and competence before entering professional practice.

What is an Optometry Student Internship?

An Optometry Student Internship is a supervised practical experience in which optometry students apply their academic knowledge and clinical skills in real-world settings, such as private practices, clinics, or hospitals. These internships are typically part of the optometry school curriculum and are designed to give students hands-on experience in patient care, diagnostic procedures, and eyewear prescription. Interns work under the supervision of licensed optometrists, allowing them to develop their clinical competencies and professional skills. This experience helps prepare students for licensure and future careers as optometrists.

What is the difference between Optometry Student Internship vs Optometry Technician?

AspectOptometry Student InternshipOptometry Technician
Required CredentialsEnrolled in optometry school, pre-licensureHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentClinical settings, supervised by optometristsOptometry offices, clinics, retail settings
Employer & Industry UsageOptometry schools, clinics, hospitalsOptometry practices, retail chains
Common Search & Comparison IntentLearning opportunities, internship programsAssistants, technical support roles

Optometry Student Internships are designed for students pursuing an optometry degree, focusing on gaining clinical experience under supervision. In contrast, Optometry Technicians support optometrists by performing technical tasks and assisting in patient care. Both roles are essential in the optometry industry but differ in qualifications, responsibilities, and career progression.

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

To thrive as an Optometry Student Intern, you need a foundational knowledge of ocular anatomy, vision science, and pre-clinical coursework, typically gained through enrollment in an accredited optometry program. Familiarity with optometric instruments, electronic health records, and diagnostic imaging systems is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and professionalism help interns build rapport with patients and collaborate effectively with supervising optometrists. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering quality patient care, learning practical clinical skills, and ensuring a successful transition to full optometric practice.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry Student jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Optometry Student jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Optometry Student Internship jobs in Florida? For Optometry Student Internship jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry Student Internship jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry Student Internship jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Optometry Student Internship jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Optometry Student Internship job openings:
Optometry Student Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Student Internship job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
OPTOMETRIC SPECIALIST

OPTOMETRIC SPECIALIST

UAB

Tampa, FL

$32.15/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

UAB Medicine rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 187 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 890 rated healthcare providers

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.

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