Optometrist Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties and Sample Template)

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Let’s be honest—if you’ve searched “Optometrist job description” online, you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again.

A few bullet points. A generic blurb about eye exams. And a cold, boring list of requirements.

But here’s the problem: that kind of job post doesn’t attract great optometrists. It attracts anyone with a license and a résumé.

And if you’re running a private practice or hiring for a growing clinic, you don’t want just anyone—you want someone who cares about patient experience, fits your team culture, and actually helps your business grow.

That’s why this guide goes deeper than the usual copy-paste templates. We’ll walk you through exactly how to write a compelling, clear, and trustworthy Optometrist job post—one that actually gets great candidates to apply.

💡 If you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  —we break down what works, what doesn’t, and how to stand out.

Ready to write a better job post?

Let’s start with what this role really is.

Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

What An Optometrist Actually Does - Their Roles

Most job descriptions jump straight into responsibilities without explaining what the role really involves. This section gives readers clarity and context in a way that feels human.

An optometrist isn’t just someone who checks eyesight and prescribes glasses. They’re a trusted healthcare provider who helps people improve their quality of life through better vision.

They examine patients’ eyes, diagnose visual problems, identify eye diseases, and recommend corrective solutions—whether that’s glasses, contact lenses, or medical treatment.

But the best optometrists do more than run eye tests. They build trust with patients. They educate people on eye health. And they help detect early signs of issues like diabetes or high blood pressure—often before a person even knows something is wrong.

If you’re hiring an optometrist, you’re not just filling a clinical role. You’re adding someone who needs medical expertise, empathy, great communication skills, and the ability to work closely with both patients and support staff.

Two Great Optometrist Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

✅ Experienced Optometrist Job Description Template

Job Title: Lead Optometrist at VisionFirst Eye Center | Full-Time | Birmingham, AL | $115,000–$135,000/year + Bonus

A Quick Note From Our Medical Director
 👋 Watch this short 60-second video to learn why we believe in doing optometry differently:
 🎥 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]

Who We Are

VisionFirst Eye Center has been serving the Birmingham community for over 25 years. With four locations across Central Alabama, we provide comprehensive eye care with a focus on long-term patient relationships and clinical excellence.

Our mission is simple: help every patient see better, feel better, and live better. Whether we’re diagnosing glaucoma or fitting specialty lenses, we combine technology, compassion, and deep expertise to deliver care that truly makes a difference.

What You’ll Do

  • Perform full-scope eye exams and vision assessments
    ● Diagnose and manage ocular diseases such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy
    ● Prescribe corrective lenses and recommend follow-up care
     ● Educate patients about long-term eye health and preventive care
     ● Collaborate closely with our optical and tech team to ensure a seamless patient experience
     ● Maintain accurate EMR documentation and support clinic compliance protocols

What We’re Looking For

  • OD degree from an accredited optometry school
    ● Active Alabama license (or ability to obtain)
    ● 2+ years of optometric experience preferred
     ● Strong communication and bedside manner
     ● Proficiency in EMR systems and modern diagnostic tools
     ● Comfortable mentoring junior staff or new grads

💡 Perks and Benefits

  • Competitive base salary + quarterly bonus structure
    ● Health, dental, and vision insurance
    ● 401(k) with employer match
     ● Paid holidays and 15+ days PTO
     ● Annual CE stipend and paid licensing renewals
     ● Well-equipped exam rooms and support from trained scribes

🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit

At VisionFirst, you won’t just see patients—you’ll shape how care is delivered. We believe in clinical autonomy, trust, and teamwork. You’ll have the freedom to practice the way you were trained, with the support of a collaborative team that values quality over quotas.

We promote from within, provide leadership opportunities, and recognize great work. If you’re looking for a clinic that invests in both its patients and its people, this is the place.

📥 How to Apply

We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just buzzwords.

Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

🌱 Entry-Level Optometrist Job Description Template

Job Title: Optometrist (New Grad Welcome) at VisionFirst Eye Center | Full-Time | Birmingham, AL | $100,000–$115,000/year + Mentorship Track

A Quick Note From Our Clinic Director
 🎥 Curious what your first year at VisionFirst looks like? Watch this quick intro from our Director of Clinical Development:
 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]

Who We Are

VisionFirst Eye Center is a patient-first optometry practice with four locations in Central Alabama. We’ve been serving the Birmingham area since 1997, and our team includes experienced ODs, ophthalmic techs, and a dedicated optical crew who all care deeply about what we do.

Our culture blends medical rigor with mentorship and kindness. We support new graduates, create space for learning, and provide modern tools to help you succeed from Day One.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist with full-scope eye exams
    ● Shadow senior optometrists during advanced diagnostic procedures
    ● Educate patients on vision care, contact lens hygiene, and eye health
     ● Participate in hands-on training with our techs and EMR platform
     ● Support clinic operations and learn best practices in managing real patient flow
     ● Take on growing levels of patient care responsibility as you gain confidence

What We’re Looking For

  • OD degree from an accredited school (must be licensed or license-eligible in Alabama)
    ● New grads welcome—we provide hands-on mentorship
    ● Enthusiastic, communicative, and eager to learn
     ● Interest in medical optometry and long-term growth within a team
     ● Friendly, patient-focused mindset

💡 Perks and Benefits

  • Paid onboarding and mentorship from senior optometrists
    ● CE support + licensing reimbursement
    ● Medical, dental, and vision insurance
     ● PTO + 10 paid holidays
     ● Access to modern tools (autorefractors, OCT, fundus camera, EMR training)
     ● Rotational training across locations for broader experience

🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit

We don’t expect perfection—we look for potential. At VisionFirst, we believe in developing new doctors by giving them structure, support, and opportunities to grow into confident, independent providers. You’ll never be thrown into the deep end without a plan.

We’re building a practice where people love their work, patients feel valued, and learning never stops. If you’re looking to launch your optometry career in a team that will invest in you, this is your chance.

📥 How to Apply

We care about making the hiring process fair, respectful, and efficient for everyone. That’s why we use WorkScreen.

Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

Breakdown of Why These Optometrist Job Posts Work

This section teaches the reader how to think critically about job posts—by showing why the two examples above are effective and attract the right kind of candidates.

🧠 Why These Optometrist Job Posts Work

Let’s break it down:

1. ✅ The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Mission-Oriented

  • Instead of generic titles like “Optometrist Wanted,” both posts include:

    • The role level (Lead Optometrist vs. New Grad)

    • The clinic name (VisionFirst Eye Center)

    • The location (Birmingham, AL)

    • The compensation range

This helps job seekers quickly know if it’s relevant to them, which increases the chances of the right people applying.

2. 👋 The Video Section Adds Trust and Personality

  • A video from the hiring manager or clinical director adds a human touch.

  • It shows there are real people behind the job post—people who care enough to make the process personal.

  • For mission-driven hires like optometrists, this builds connection from the start.

3. 🏥 The “Who We Are” Section Reflects a Real Clinic, Not a Template

  • These posts don’t give instructions—they introduce the actual company.

  • VisionFirst Eye Center is described with real history, tone, and values.

  • This makes the post feel authentic, not AI-generated or generic.

4. 🛠️ The Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks

  • Instead of just listing “Perform eye exams,” the job posts show how the role fits into the clinic’s mission.

  • For example: “You won’t just see patients—you’ll shape how care is delivered.”

  • This helps applicants see purpose in their work, which is key for top-tier professionals.

5. 🧑‍⚕️ The Requirements Are Realistic and Encouraging

  • The senior role includes experience and licensing expectations clearly.

  • The entry-level version highlights mentorship, not just credentials—removing friction for newer candidates without sacrificing standards.

6. 💡 Perks and Benefits Are Transparent and Separated

  • Both job posts clearly outline what the candidate will get—compensation, PTO, CE support, insurance, tools, etc.

  • These are listed separately from cultural messaging, which makes each section easier to scan and more impactful.

7. 🌟 The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Sells the Opportunity

  • This is where the emotional close

  • It makes the applicant feel wanted, supported, and empowered.

  • It reframes the job from “tasks to perform” to “a role worth your time and talent.”

8. 🧘 The Application Process is Respectful and Streamlined

  • Instead of saying “Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted,” these posts use WorkScreen.io and explain why:

    • To eliminate bias

    • To save time

    • To give every applicant a fair shot

This creates goodwill and boosts trust—two things most job seekers don’t expect anymore.

Example of a Bad Optometrist Job Description (And Why It Fails)

We’re going to show you what a bland, outdated optometrist job post looks like—and then break down why it’s ineffective. This helps readers avoid common mistakes and see how important language, structure, and tone really are.

❌ Bad Job Description Example

Job Title: Optometrist
 Company: Regional Vision Associates
 Location: Alabama
 Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

Regional Vision Associates is hiring an optometrist to perform routine eye exams, prescribe lenses, and ensure patient satisfaction. The candidate will work closely with support staff to maintain clinic efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive eye exams
    ● Diagnose vision problems and prescribe eyewear
    ● Refer patients to specialists when necessary
     ● Maintain patient records
     ● Follow company protocols and procedures

Requirements

  • Doctor of Optometry degree
    ● Valid license in the state of Alabama
    ● 1–3 years of experience preferred
     ● Strong communication skills

How to Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to hr@regionalvision.com. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

🔎 Why This Job Post Fails

Let’s break down the key problems:

1. 💤 The Job Title Is Generic

Just “Optometrist” gives no context, seniority level, clinic name, or reason to click. It won’t stand out in a sea of similar posts.

2. 🧊 The Summary Feels Cold and Mechanical

There’s no mention of mission, team culture, or patient care values. It reads like a chore list—not a meaningful career opportunity.

3. ❌ Responsibilities Are Too Vague

Tasks like “maintain patient records” and “follow protocols” are expected—but they don’t show impact or purpose. Great candidates want to know how their work makes a difference.

4. 🕵️ No Insight Into the Company or Culture

Nothing in this post tells you what Regional Vision Associates stands for, who works there, or why someone would want to join. That’s a huge missed opportunity.

5. 💰 No Mention of Salary or Benefits

Leaving out compensation creates distrust and wastes time—for both the applicant and the clinic. Transparency builds credibility.

6. ❌ The Application Process Feels Dismissive

Saying “Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” is outdated and cold. It signals that the company doesn’t value the applicant’s time or effort.

7. 😐 No CTA That Connects

There’s no call to action that motivates the candidate or explains what makes this opportunity special. It feels transactional—like filling a slot, not building a team.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out

These small additions can significantly improve how your job post is received. They build trust, show empathy, and make your post feel thoughtful—without adding fluff.

Here are the extras top-performing clinics use (and why they work):

✅ Tip 1: Add an “IMPORTANT NOTICE” About Applicant Safety

This helps candidates feel safe when applying, especially with so many job scams online.

Example to include at the bottom of your post:

⚠️ Important Notice: VisionFirst Eye Center will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process. We take the security and privacy of every applicant seriously.

✅ Tip 2: Mention Paid Time Off or Flex Days

Candidates care about benefits—especially time to rest and recharge. A simple sentence in your perks section can boost response.

Example:

“Enjoy up to 15+ PTO days annually, plus 10 paid holidays—so you can recharge and return energized.”

✅ Tip 3: Highlight Growth, CE, and Training Opportunities

Especially important for early-career candidates or ODs looking for long-term fit.

Example:

“We invest in your growth. You’ll receive a CE stipend, paid licensing renewals, and access to mentorship opportunities as you grow into leadership roles.”

✅ Tip 4: Include a Loom or Video Message From the Hiring Manager

Already added in your earlier templates, but worth reinforcing here:
 Video builds instant trust. It adds personality to your post, shows that real people are behind the job, and increases applicant quality.

Pro tip: Keep it under 90 seconds. Introduce who you are, what you’re hiring for, and what kind of person would thrive on your team.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

✅ Tip 5: State Your Review Timeline and Hiring Process

This helps reduce anxiety for applicants and shows respect for their time.

Example:

“We review every application and aim to respond within 7–10 business days. We’ll keep you updated at each step—because we believe every applicant deserves a clear answer.”

These small additions separate your post from the 90% of job descriptions that feel rushed, impersonal, or outdated. They also build your employer brand—without costing anything extra.

Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?

AI can save time—but if you rely on it blindly, it can also destroy the quality of your job post and damage your brand.

Let’s break it down.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Use AI to Write Your Entire Job Description

A one-click AI job post might look polished—but it often sounds robotic, vague, or eerily similar to hundreds of other listings online.

Here’s what happens when you let AI write your job post from scratch:

  • You get a generic, lifeless description that fails to connect

  • You attract the wrong candidates—those applying to anything

  • You miss the chance to show off your company’s values, mission, and personality

  • You risk undermining your employer brand with copy-paste content that sounds the same as everyone else

Your job post is a first impression. Why waste it?

✅ The Right Way to Use AI When Writing Job Descriptions

AI is a tool—not a substitute for your voice, context, or intent. When used properly, it can help you save time without losing quality.

Here’s how to do it the smart way:

Step 1: Start With Human Input

Feed AI real details like:

  • What your company does

  • What your culture feels like

  • The tone you want to use (friendly, confident, warm, etc.)

  • The kind of person you’re looking for

  • Any internal notes about the role or team

Step 2: Use a Smart Prompt Like This:

“Help me write a job post for our company, VisionFirst Eye Center. We’re hiring a Lead Optometrist to provide full-scope care, manage complex cases, and help shape how our Birmingham clinic delivers patient care. Our culture is collaborative, warm, and quality-first. We want to attract mission-driven candidates who value autonomy, growth, and trust. We offer flexible scheduling, CE reimbursement, and performance bonuses. Here’s our salary range: $115K–$135K. Here’s our hiring process: WorkScreen evaluation > Interview > Offer. Also, here’s a rough draft I wrote: [paste your notes here].”

This gives AI structure, direction, and tone—so what it generates actually sounds like you.

Step 3: Treat the Output as a First Draft

AI can help clean up grammar, clarify ideas, or improve formatting—but it still needs your voice.

Use it to refine, not to replace your thinking.

Bottom line:
 Don’t let AI speak for your brand without supervision. You’ll end up with a job post that blends into the noise—and misses out on the best candidates.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use

We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.

Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.

That’s what this is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First)

Job Title: Optometrist at [Company Name] | Full-Time | [Location] | [$Salary Range]

A Quick Intro from Our Clinic Director
 🎥 Watch this short video to get a feel for who we are:
 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]

Who We Are
 [Company Name] is a modern, patient-first optometry practice that’s been part of the [City/State] community for over [X] years. We’re committed to improving lives through better vision—and we believe that starts with a team who’s just as passionate about patient care as we are.

We combine technology, trust, and great teamwork to create an experience that’s warm, efficient, and empowering—for patients and staff.

What You’ll Do
 ● Conduct comprehensive eye exams
 ● Diagnose and manage ocular conditions
 ● Prescribe glasses and contact lenses
 ● Educate patients on long-term eye health
 ● Collaborate with our techs and optical team
 ● Keep accurate records using our EMR system

What We’re Looking For
 ● OD degree from an accredited optometry school
 ● Active license (or ability to obtain in [State])
 ● Clear communicator with a patient-first mindset
 ● Comfortable using digital diagnostic tools
 ● New grads welcome—we’ll mentor you

Perks and Benefits
 ● Health, dental, and vision insurance
 ● Paid time off + holidays
 ● CE stipend + paid licensing renewals
 ● Flexible scheduling
 ● Supportive team and modern equipment

Why This Role Is Worth Your Time
 We don’t micromanage—we trust. You’ll have the space to practice with autonomy, the support to keep learning, and the leadership opportunities to grow. If you’re ready to join a team that values real patient relationships and long-term success, let’s talk.

How to Apply
 We use WorkScreen to make our hiring process fair, fast, and focused on skills. Click the link below to get started:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

🧱 Option 2: Structured Job Description Format (Traditional)

Job Title: Optometrist
 Company: [Company Name]
 Location: [City, State]
 Job Type: Full-Time
 Salary: [$XX,000–XX,000/year]

A Quick Intro from Our Clinic Director
 🎥 Watch this short video to get a feel for who we are:
 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]

Job Summary

We are seeking a licensed Optometrist to join our clinic in [Location]. The ideal candidate will provide comprehensive vision care, help diagnose and manage ocular conditions, and contribute to a patient-centered team environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform full-scope eye exams and assessments
    ● Prescribe corrective lenses and follow-up treatment
    ● Identify and manage ocular diseases and disorders
     ● Collaborate with optical and administrative staff
     ● Maintain electronic health records using EMR
     ● Educate patients on long-term eye health

Required Qualifications

  • Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree
    ● Valid license to practice in [State]
    ● Strong communication and interpersonal skills
     ● Familiarity with EMR and diagnostic tools
     ● 0–2+ years of experience (new grads welcome)

Perks and Benefits

  • Competitive base salary + bonus opportunities
    ● Health, dental, and vision insurance
    ● CE and licensing reimbursement
     ● Paid time off and holidays
     ● Modern clinic with advanced diagnostic equipment

Why Work With Us

At [Company Name], we prioritize people over quotas. We’re a supportive, growth-focused practice that believes in doing things right—for our patients, and for our team. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next great chapter, we’re here to help you thrive.

How to Apply

We use WorkScreen to ensure a streamlined, skill-based hiring process. Click the link below to begin your application:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring

Now that your job post is dialed in, it’s time to streamline what comes next: identifying the right candidates.

Here’s how you can close your article with a soft, trust-building promotion of WorkScreen.io that feels helpful—not salesy.

🔧 Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step

Writing a great job post is only half the battle. The real challenge? Figuring out who’s actually qualified—and who just knows how to write a decent resume or copy-paste answers.

That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

Here’s how it helps you hire smarter:

✅ Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

✅ Test Real-World Skills with One Click

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

✅ Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

If you’re tired of sifting through resumes, ghosted interviews, or hiring people who look good on paper but underdeliver in practice—WorkScreen can help.

🎯 It’s fast. It’s fair. It’s built for teams that care about quality.

👉 Create a job post and start evaluating candidates on WorkScreen.io

FAQ – Common Questions About Hiring an Optometrist

Beyond the obvious clinical qualifications, the best optometrists have a strong mix of soft and technical skills:

  • Diagnostic accuracy: Ability to identify subtle changes in vision or early signs of disease.
  • Patient communication: They must explain medical information clearly and with empathy.
  • Attention to detail: A small oversight in prescription or diagnosis can impact care.
  • Tech proficiency: Familiarity with EMR systems, autorefractors, OCT, and visual field testing tools.
  • Time management: Clinics run on tight schedules—being efficient without rushing is key.
  • Team collaboration: Great optometrists work well with techs, front desk staff, and optical teams.

These are the traits that separate someone who can do the job from someone who excels in it.

In the U.S., optometrists typically earn between $100,000 and $140,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and setting.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Entry-level or new grads: $90,000 – $110,000
  • Experienced ODs in private practice: $115,000 – $135,000
  • High-performing ODs with bonuses or ownership potential: $140,000+

Clinics in high-cost-of-living areas (like California or New York) may pay more, while rural clinics may offer additional incentives like relocation support or signing bonuses.

It depends on your clinic’s current needs.

  • Hire a new graduate if you have mentorship capacity and want to grow long-term talent. They bring fresh energy and are often more adaptable to your systems.
  • Hire an experienced OD if you need someone to hit the ground running, take on leadership tasks, or help build out specialty services like medical optometry.

Both are valuable—it’s about aligning your team’s current bandwidth with the level of independence you expect from day one.

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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