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Vision Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Apple Vision Science team works on all aspects of visual experience of Apple products. Our team features a highly collaborative and hands-on environment that fosters scientific and engineering ...

The Apple Vision Science team works on all aspects of visual experience of Apple products. Our team features a highly collaborative and hands-on environment that fosters scientific and engineering ...

Optics and Vision Scientist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $26.50/hr

Joining the Vision Science Group-a multidisciplinary team spanning color science, psychophysics, and neuroscience-you will apply fundamental science and engineering to deliver unparalleled visual ...

Joining the Vision Science Group-a multidisciplinary team spanning color science, psychophysics, and neuroscience-you will apply fundamental science and engineering to deliver unparalleled visual ...

$80K - $202K/yr

POSITION DESCRIPTION The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of California, Berkeley invites applications for a pool of qualified health science clinical faculty ...

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Vision Science information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do vision science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for vision science in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 does a vision scientist do?

A vision scientist researches how the visual system processes information, studying aspects like visual perception, eye function, and neural mechanisms. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, using tools such as eye trackers and imaging technology, and may require knowledge of biology, psychology, or optics.

What can you do with a Vision Science degree?

A Vision Science degree prepares individuals for careers in eye care, research, and vision technology. Graduates can work as optometrists, vision researchers, ophthalmic technicians, or in roles involving visual perception and eye health, often requiring clinical skills and knowledge of optics and neuroscience.

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 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.

Is Vision Science hard?

Vision Science as a field involves understanding complex biological and psychological processes related to vision, often requiring knowledge of biology, physics, and research methods. It can be challenging due to the technical nature of the subject and the need for analytical skills, but with dedication and proper training, it is manageable for motivated students and professionals.
What cities in California are hiring for Vision Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Vision Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Vision Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.
Vision Health Scientist/Engineer

Vision Health Scientist/Engineer

Apple

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 670 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

The Apple Vision Science team works on all aspects of visual experience of Apple products. Our team features a highly collaborative and hands-on environment that fosters scientific and engineering excellence, creativity, and innovation in the interdisciplinary areas of vision science, image processing, color science, neuroscience, optics and health. In this role, you will apply your vision science and clinical vision knowledge to enable the exploration and development of novel vision health technologies. Travel to San Diego is required.
Description
This position will rely on your foundation in vision science and clinical vision to conceive, design, develop, test and deploy vision health technologies that integrate with Apple hardware, software and services.
Minimum Qualifications
BS degree
Research and clinical practice experience
Experienced in programming for experimental execution, analysis and/or prototyping
Preferred Qualifications
10+ years relevant industry experience in Vision Science, Optometry, Neuroscience, Optics or similar
OD/PhD in optometry, vision science or related fields
Strong foundation in existing clinical vision testing
Previous experience conducting health related user studies
Worked with human study review boards and familiar with privacy protection of health data
Experience working with universities, hospitals and/or medical device manufacturers
Experience in regulated medical products and/or digital health products
Comfortable learning new instrumentation/software, and working hands-on with prototypes
Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Proficiency with data analysis tools and statistics
Curious and fast learner - not afraid to ask questions and be able to quickly understand complex technical or clinical topics
Highly motivated self-starter, taking initiative to tackle problem at hand
Proven ability to lead by influence without direct authority - can comfortably build relationships, establish credibility, and drive results
Highly organized and able to communicate clearly and concisely with vendors, peers and leadership

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976