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$24.5K

$48.4K

$79K

How much do vision science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for vision science in the United States is $48,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is vision science?

Vision science is an interdisciplinary field that studies how visual systems process information. It encompasses research on the anatomy, physiology, and functioning of the eyes and brain, as well as optical, computational, and psychological aspects of vision. Vision scientists work to understand how we perceive visual information, how visual disorders arise, and how technology can enhance or restore vision. Careers in vision science may involve research, clinical practice, or developing new diagnostic and corrective tools.

What are some typical collaborative projects a vision science professional might work on with other departments?

Vision Science professionals frequently collaborate with teams in ophthalmology, neurology, psychology, and engineering, depending on the setting. For example, they may work closely with ophthalmologists to develop and test new diagnostic tools, partner with engineers to refine visual aids or imaging technologies, or collaborate with psychologists to study visual perception and cognition. These interdisciplinary projects help broaden the impact of their research and often lead to innovative solutions in visual health and technology.

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

To thrive as a Vision Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, optics, neuroscience, and experimental design, typically supported by a PhD or advanced degree in vision science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and imaging systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills enable successful research and collaboration. These competencies are crucial for advancing knowledge in visual perception and developing applications in healthcare and technology.

What is the difference between Vision Science vs Optometrist?

AspectVision ScienceOptometrist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a master's or PhD in vision science or related fieldRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry settingsPrivate practices, clinics, healthcare facilities
Industry UsageResearch, product development, academiaPatient eye care, vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses

Vision Science and Optometrists both focus on eye health and vision, but differ in their roles. Vision Science primarily involves research and development in vision-related fields, requiring advanced degrees and working in academic or industry settings. Optometrists, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals providing direct patient care, requiring a Doctor of Optometry degree and licensure. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the eye care industry.

What can I do with a master's in vision science?

A master's in vision science prepares individuals for roles such as vision researcher, optometric technician, or vision scientist in clinical, research, or industry settings. Graduates often work in eye care clinics, research laboratories, or with companies developing visual technologies, utilizing skills in optics, neuroscience, and data analysis.

What can you do with a vision science degree?

A vision science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, clinical practice, or industry related to visual health, perception, and optics. Graduates can work as optometrists, vision scientists, research analysts, or in roles involving eye care technology and visual performance assessment, often requiring knowledge of optics, neuroscience, and laboratory skills.

What does a vision science do?

A vision scientist studies how the visual system processes and interprets visual information, often conducting research in areas like optics, perception, and eye health. They may work in laboratories, healthcare settings, or academia, using tools such as microscopes and imaging devices to understand visual function and develop treatments or technologies related to vision. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of biology, physics, and psychology are essential in this field.
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What cities are hiring for Vision Science jobs?

Cities with the most Vision Science job openings:

What states have the most Vision Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vision Science jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Vision Science jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Vision Science jobs are:

Vision Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vision Science job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

2027 Summer Optical & Vision Science Engineering Interns

Johns Creek, GA

Alcon Laboratories Holding Corporation
See more jobs at Alcon Laboratories Holding Corporationexternal

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About Alcon:

Alcon helps people see brilliantly. As the global leader in eye care with a heritage spanning more than 75 years, we offer one of the broadest portfolios of products designed to enhance sight and improve people's lives. Our Surgical and Vision Care products touch the lives of more than 260 million people in over 140 countries each year, supporting those living with conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal diseases, and refractive errors. Our more than 25,000 associates help enhance quality of life through innovative products, partnerships with eye care professionals, and programs that advance access to quality eye care. If you'd like to help change the way the world sees, this is your chance to Be Brilliant!

Position Description:

Alcon is seeking multiple talented and motivated Optical & Vision Science Engineering Interns to join our 2027 Summer Internship Program across several U.S. locations, including Johns Creek, GA; Goleta, CA; Lake Forest, CA; Fort Worth, TX; and Houston, TX. Interns will have the opportunity to gain meaningful industry experience, contribute to real-world projects, and collaborate with professionals across Alcon. Through this internship, students will build technical skills, expand their professional network, and receive coaching, mentoring, and development opportunities while helping advance Alcon's mission to help people see brilliantly.

Potential Internship Project Areas:

Based on business needs, location, and team alignment, internship projects may include opportunities such as:

  • Evaluate hazard detection while driving through different intraocular-lens models and under glare conditions.

  • Study relationships between contrast sensitivity and visual acuity and optical-quality measures such as modulation transfer function.

  • Design and conduct laboratory studies using wavefront sensors, vision simulators and psychophysical testing systems.

  • Support advanced metrology through instrument design, testing, qualification, image processing and data analysis.

  • Apply optical imaging, wavefront sensing, optical coherence tomography and interferometric techniques to ophthalmic-product research.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be enrolled in an accredited university or college for at least one semester prior to internship or co-op, and at least one additional semester following internship or co-op.

  • Must be pursuing at least a bachelor's degree in optics, optical engineering, optometry, vision science, imaging, physics, or related major.

  • Academic performance: Minimum cumulative GPA 2.8/4.0

  • Demonstrated leadership skills (i.e. extracurricular activities or projects)

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis without requiring sponsorship (students on an F1 visa with CPT can be accommodated)

  • Ability to commit to a 10-12-week, full-time (40 hours per week) summer internship

ATTENTION: Current Alcon Employee/Contingent Worker

If you are currently an active employee/contingent worker at Alcon, please click the appropriate link below to apply on the Internal Career site.

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You are applying to be part of the Alcon Talent Pool. We are not currently recruiting for this role but we are building a pipeline for future opportunities. If you would like to be considered for a similar position in future, then please submit your CV or resume.

ALCON IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PARTICIPATES IN E-VERIFY

Alcon takes pride in maintaining an inclusive environment that values different perspectives and our policies are non-discriminatory in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. Alcon is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to alcon.recruitment@alcon.comand let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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