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Optometry Student Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southern College Of Optometry

Supports the mission of Southern College of Optometry to educate the very best possible healthcare ... ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Clinical Education Provides clinical education to interns participating in ...

Defense Health Agency Civilian Corps, Falls Church, VA

$166K/yr

Provide supervision, teaching, and guidance to senior optometric interns/Scholarship Program Students, eye specialist students, and/or eye technicians. * Perform full range of professional optometric ...

MCPHS University

Optician

Worcester, MA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

The School of Optometry is looking for a part-time registered optician to provide high-quality ... Assists with activities of student interns when needed * Assists with instruction of laboratory ...

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Optometry Student Internship information

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How much do optometry student internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry student internship in the United States is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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Optometry Student Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry Student Internship job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,171 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Optometry Faculty (OD) - Primary Care

Pikeville, KY • On-site

University of Pikeville
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about University of Pikevilleexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) is searching for dedicated faculty to join the Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO). Located in the heart of Appalachia, the University of Pikeville is committed to offering a broad liberal arts and health professions education. Partnering with the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine (KYCOM) allows KYCO to provide our students a solid foundation in medical science.
KYCO's mission is to develop leaders in therapeutic optometry through innovative education and a commitment to caring for the underserved. Faculty members will provide students with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed at the highest level of professional optometric services. These unique career opportunities afford an individual the opportunity to work and teach in a state-of-the-art eye care facility as well as in fully equipped rural health clinics; while at the same time enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the Appalachian mountain region.
KYCO is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) and the University of Pikeville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.
A professional clinical educator is needed for:
Primary Care Optometry
RESPONSIBILITIES: A successful candidate must be passionate and experienced in classroom and clinical instruction. This position will require participation in the KYCO clinics providing patient care with both student interns and optometric residents.
QUALIFICATIONS: This vacancy will require a minimum Doctor of Optometry Degree (O.D.). Residency training in the appropriate areas of specialty or a minimum of three years of relevant clinical experience is preferred. Optometrist applicants must be eligible for licensure in the state of Kentucky with expanded therapeutics certification and are expected to participate in patient care services. Prior college teaching experience is strongly preferred.
The University of Pikeville offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. UPIKE offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, telemedicine, long term disability, tuition waivers, a 403(b)-retirement plan, and HSA, FSA, & dependent care accounts. UPIKE also offers a generous holiday schedule and paid leave program.
Important Notes: Resume and other application materials will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. Please, specifically address the qualifications, competencies and desired qualifications in your resume and application materials.
The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.
The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.
For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit http://www.upike.edu. In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current curriculum vitae, copies of their transcripts, a teaching philosophy statement, and the contact information for three to five professional references.

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