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Optometry Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Southeast Eye Associates

We offer a full range of optometry services, including primary care, specialty contacts, dry eye treatments, and special testing for glaucoma, ARMD, etc. The office offers new and updated diagnostic ...

Southeast Eye Associates

Optometrist

Middlesboro, KY

We offer a full range of optometry services, including primary care, specialty contacts, dry eye treatments, and special testing for glaucoma, ARMD, etc. The office offers new and updated diagnostic ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Bowling Green, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60 ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Campbellsville, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Campbellsville, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60 ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Bowling Green, KY

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Bowling Green, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60 ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Southgate, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.25/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Owensboro, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60.00 to ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Southgate, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.25/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Owensboro, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60.00 to ...

visionworks

Optometrist

Campbellsville, KY

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Campbellsville, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60 ...

Visionworks

Optometrist

Paducah, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Paducah, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60.00 to ...

Visionworks

Optometrist

Owensboro, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.25/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Owensboro, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60.00 to ...

Visionworks

Optometrist

Campbellsville, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Campbellsville, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60 ...

Visionworks

Optometrist

Ashland, KY · On-site

$60 - $93.75/hr

KY Doctors Of Optometry Our optometrists help make quality eye care accessible and affordable, changing the lives of their patients each year. Ashland, KY - Full-Time/Part-Time Pay range: $60.00 to ...

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All JobsOptometry JobsOptometry Jobs in Kentucky

Optometry information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do optometry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry in Kentucky is $16.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optometrist, you need a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state licensure, and strong knowledge of eye health, vision correction, and diagnostic techniques. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as phoropters, autorefractors, slit lamps, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly help set top professionals apart. These skills ensure accurate diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and positive patient experiences in a clinical setting.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry roles are often in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or working in private practice with advanced skills. Typically, optometrists with additional certifications, extensive experience, or those who own their practices tend to earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on geographic location and the complexity of patient care provided.

What are careers in optometry?

Careers in optometry involve assessing, diagnosing, and treating visual problems and eye health issues. Optometrists typically perform eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, and may provide pre- and post-operative care for eye surgeries, often working in clinics or private practices. Licensing and a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree are required to practice professionally.

What is optometry?

Optometry is a healthcare profession focused on examining, diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the eyes and visual system. Optometrists are trained to perform eye exams, prescribe corrective lenses, detect eye diseases, and provide certain treatments. They play a crucial role in maintaining eye health and may also offer advice on eye care and vision protection. In many regions, optometrists work closely with ophthalmologists and other healthcare providers.

What is the difference between Optometry vs Ophthalmology?

AspectOptometryOphthalmology
Required CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD)Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) with ophthalmology specialization
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, retail optical stores, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, specialized eye clinics, surgical centers
Industry UsagePrimary eye care, vision testing, prescribing glasses/contact lensesMedical and surgical treatment of eye diseases, surgeries
Common Search/ComparisonOptometry vs Ophthalmology

Optometrists focus on vision care, eye exams, and prescribing corrective lenses, while ophthalmologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat eye diseases, perform surgeries, and provide comprehensive eye care. Both roles are essential in eye health, but they differ in training, scope, and services offered.

What are some common challenges optometrists face in managing patient care within a busy practice?

Optometrists often manage a high volume of patients each day, which can make it challenging to provide personalized care while staying on schedule. Balancing administrative responsibilities, such as documenting patient records and managing insurance claims, adds to the workload. Additionally, staying updated with advancements in eye care technology and maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations require ongoing professional development. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential for navigating these challenges and ensuring high-quality patient outcomes.

Will optometrists be replaced by AI?

Optometrists perform clinical assessments, diagnose eye conditions, and prescribe treatments, tasks that require complex decision-making and patient interaction. While AI can assist with vision testing and data analysis, it is unlikely to fully replace optometrists due to the need for personalized care and professional judgment. Technology will likely serve as a tool to enhance optometric practice rather than replace the role entirely.

Can an optometrist manage glaucoma?

An optometrist can diagnose and manage early-stage glaucoma through comprehensive eye exams, including intraocular pressure measurement and optic nerve assessment. However, advanced cases or those requiring surgical intervention are typically referred to an ophthalmologist, who has specialized training in medical and surgical treatment of glaucoma.
More about Optometry jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optometry jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Optometry jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Optometry jobs in Kentucky? For Optometry jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optometry jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Optometry jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Optometry jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Optometry job openings:
Optometry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optometry job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,545 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Optometry Faculty (OD) - Pediatrics

Optometry Faculty (OD) - Pediatrics

University of Pikeville

Pikeville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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.
Through education, training, and mentoring 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 unparalleled beauty and tranquility of the Appalachian mountain region.
Responsibilities:
  • Be highly knowledgeable in the field of Pediatric Eye Care and Binocular Vision Management.
  • Develop and teach courses and/or laboratories addressing various pediatric eye conditions, such as strabismus, amblyopia, refractive errors, disease, and binocular vision disorders.
  • Provide direct patient care and clinical instruction to professional students and interdisciplinary practice with other educational professionals.
  • Candidates must be willing to actively participate in curricular assessment, professional development, student counseling and service activities within the college, university and the scientific community.
  • Successful candidates are also expected to be involved in traditional research and scholarly activities, and have a sincere commitment to optometric education, community service and patient care.

Requirements:
  • Minimum Doctor of Optometry Degree (O.D.) and/or Ph.D. (or equivalent) in a discipline related to optometry or its associated basis sciences.
  • Residency training in Pediatrics and Binocular Vision OR a minimum of three years relevant clinical experience is preferred.
  • Optometrist applicants should be eligible for licensure in the state of Kentucky with expanded therapeutics certification and are expected to participate in patient care services.
  • Applicants must have excellent organizational, communication, teaching and decision-making skills.
  • 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, and the contact information for three to five professional references.

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