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Student Optometrist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Searhc

Optometrist

Juneau, AK

May precept and mentor optometry students. * Support departmental compliance with all applicable regulatory agencies, accreditation programs and SEARHC policies and procedures. * Travel required.

UPMC

Optometrist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Establish a strong teaching presence with optometry students, residents, and staff. About The Department of Ophthalmology: * At the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Department of ...

National Vision

Optometrist

Danbury, CT · On-site

Optometry license reimbursement ... Employer-provided student loan repayment program (up to twelve thousand dollars per year) at select ...

National Vision

Optometrist

Culpeper, VA · On-site

Optometry license reimbursement ... Employer-provided student loan repayment program (up to twelve thousand dollars per year) at select ...

Vision To Learn

Optometrist

Newark, NJ · On-site

$100 - $105/hr

OPTOMETRIST - Mobile Optometry Location : Newark, NJ Compensation : $100-$105/hr. + Sign-on Bonus ... Vision To Learn provides eye exams and glasses to students in underserved communities at no cost to ...

Vision To Learn

Optometrist

Sarasota, FL

$85/hr

Optometrist Employment type: Full-time, Part-time Vision To Learn seeks compassionate, mission ... Vision To Learn provides eye exams and glasses to students in underserved communities at no cost to ...

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Student Optometrist information

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$65K

$124.2K

$185K

How much do student optometrist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for student optometrist in the United States is $124,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Student Optometrist, you need a solid grounding in ocular anatomy, vision science, and patient assessment, typically achieved through enrollment in an accredited optometry program. Familiarity with diagnostic tools such as slit lamps, autorefractors, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with patients and supervisors help you stand out in this role. These competencies are critical for accurate diagnoses, effective patient care, and successful progression through clinical training.

What is the difference between Student Optometrist vs Optometry Intern?

AspectStudent OptometristOptometry Intern
CredentialsEnrolled in optometry program, limited licensingTypically in final year, supervised practice
Work EnvironmentEducational clinics, supervised settingsClinical practice under supervision, often in hospitals or clinics
Industry UsageEducational phase, training periodPost-education, gaining practical experience

Both roles involve gaining practical experience in optometry, but a Student Optometrist is still in training within an educational program, while an Optometry Intern is usually in the final stages of training, working under supervision to prepare for full licensure.

What does a student optometrist do?

A student optometrist is an individual currently enrolled in an optometry school or program who is training to become a licensed optometrist. Their responsibilities typically include learning about eye health, vision care, and performing supervised clinical tasks such as eye exams, vision tests, and assisting with patient care. They work under the guidance of licensed optometrists and faculty to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for their future profession. Student optometrists must also complete internships and pass board exams to become fully licensed. Their education combines classroom learning, laboratory work, and practical clinical experience.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by student optometrists during clinical placements?

Student optometrists often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced clinical environment, managing patient communication, and balancing academic responsibilities with hands-on learning. Building confidence in performing eye examinations and interpreting results can take time, especially when working with diverse patient populations. Support from supervisors and collaborating with peers on complex cases are essential for skill development and overcoming initial uncertainties.
More about Student Optometrist jobs
What job categories do people searching Student Optometrist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Student Optometrist jobs are:
Student Optometrist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Student Optometrist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,213 per year, or $59.7 per hour.

Optometrist

Searhc

Juneau, AK

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The purpose of this position is to provide comprehensive eye care services to patients throughout the SEARHC region. The optometrist is on the Associate Medical Staff and cares for patients of all ages. This position provides support to the Optometrist-Lead in the day-to-day operations of the local Eye Clinic and in absence of the Optometrist-Lead will provide supervision of the local Eye Clinic staff.

SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium which serves the health interests of the residents of Southeast Alaska. We see our employees as our strongest assets. It is our priority to further their development and our organization by aiding in their professional advancement.

Working at SEARHC is more than a job, it's a fulfilling career. We offer generous benefits, including retirement, paid time off, paid parental leave, health insurance, dental, and vision benefits, life insurance and long and short-term disability, and more.

Key Essential Functions and Accountabilities of the Job

  • Provide comprehensive eye care including but not limited to diagnosis, treatment, minor procedures, coordination of care, referrals, consultations, patient or community education and co-management as applicable.

  • Accurate and timely medical recordkeeping.

  • Conduct field Eye Clinics to SEARHC locations.

  • Assist with on-the-job training and competency of the local Eye Clinic staff.

  • May sponsor Dispensing Optician Apprentices.

  • May precept and mentor optometry students.

  • Support departmental compliance with all applicable regulatory agencies, accreditation programs and SEARHC policies and procedures.

  • Travel required.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Education, Certifications, and Licenses Required

  • Full-Time: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) with a current unrestricted Alaska Optometry license.

  • Intermittent: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) with a current unrestricted U.S. Optometry license, with Alaska Optometry license preferred.

  • BLS upon start date.

Experience Required

  • Preferred: Completion of Optometric Residency or Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry or a current Optometry Board Certification OR 2 years of clinical optometry experience.

Knowledge of

  • Advanced eye care knowledge to perform clinical duties that meet the standards of care set by the American Optometric Association

Skills in

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully through oral and written communication.

  • Leadership.

  • Teamwork.

  • Problem solving.

  • Conflict resolution.

Ability to

  • Plan, organize, and prioritize to meet deadlines.

Travel Required

  • Field travel may require lifting of equipment in totes which may weigh up to 50 pounds each.

  • Field travel may require travel by jet, small aircraft, or ferry.

Required Certifications:

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

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