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Vision Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Vision Science information

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$24.5K

$48.4K

$79K

How much do vision science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 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.
More about Vision Science jobs

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:

Infographic showing various Vision Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Research Scientist Intern, Applied Vision and Image Quality (PhD)

Meta

Redmond, WA • On-site

$7.6K - $12K/mo

Internship

Re-posted 19 days ago


Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

The Applied Perception Science (APS) team at Meta Reality Labs is seeking a research scientist intern to join our vision science program, focusing on evaluating image quality in augmented reality (AR) displays. This role will help pioneer foundational research into how quality is perceived in see-through displays with novel architectures, addressing critical gaps in existing perceptual science and enabling display technologies in next-generation AR devices. You will work alongside a highly interdisciplinary team of display, electrical sensor and software engineers and scientists with backgrounds in optics, graphics and machine and human perception. The ideal candidate will have a passion for the intersection of display, optical, and system engineering and computer and human vision Our internships are sixteen (16) to twenty-four (24) weeks long and we have various start dates throughout the year.
Responsibilities
Work on topics in perception and imaging science (image and text quality, quality metrics, perceptual metrology, etc.) to support research in AR head-mounted display technologies
• Conceive and develop simulations of AR devices to help guide emerging AR display technologies
• Design and conduct psychophysical experiments to quantify artifact visibility and image quality in AR displays
• Conduct psychophysical user studies on both benchtop testbeds and head-mounted prototypes to help guide emerging AR display technologies
• Collaborate and communicate with scientists and engineers across a variety of disciplines to design vision science studies in an applied context
Minimum Qualifications
• In the process of obtaining a PhD degree in Vision Science, Computer Graphics, or related field
• Experience designing, conducting, and analyzing the results of psychophysical experiments related to visual perception, computer graphics, and/or display systems
• Experience with scientific programming languages (e.g., Python and Matlab) including their use to script psychophysical experiments
• Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with imaging science, optical engineering or computational imaging, with a strong publication record in top venues
• Demonstrated expertise in psychophysics or vision science and experience designing and running human subject experiments
• Experience with Unity/C#, Python/Psychopy, or MATLAB, particularly for the development of psychophysical experiments
• Experience working with benchtop stereoscopic displays, head-mounted displays, or other hardware to study the visual system
• Experience working and communicating cross functionally in a team environment
• Intent to return to degree-program after the completion of the internship
About Meta
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today-beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. You may view our Equal Employment Opportunity notice here.

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