My LER

Optometrists

Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.

SOC: 29-1041.00

Common Job Titles

OptometristOptometry Doctor (OD)Therapeutic Optometrist

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate visual system pathology and ocular disease presentations using diagnostic equipment and clinical examination findings to determine treatment plans.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize medical and biological knowledge to diagnose systemic conditions manifesting in ocular symptoms collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams when patient care requires referral or co-management.
  • KnowledgeFormulate therapeutic drug regimens for ocular infections, inflammation, and chronic conditions considering pharmacological interactions, patient medical history, and regulatory requirements.
  • KnowledgeDesign customized vision therapy and contact lens fitting protocols adapting treatment approaches for pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients with varying ocular anatomies.
  • Hands-onPerform comprehensive eye examinations using biomicroscopes, ophthalmoscopes, and phoroptors independently in clinical settings with diverse patient populations.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze refractive error measurements and visual acuity test results integrating autorefractor data, retinoscopy findings, and patient symptoms to prescribe corrective lenses.
  • MindsetIntegrate patient-centered communication with evidence-based diagnostic protocols when explaining complex visual conditions and treatment options to patients with varying health literacy levels.
  • Hands-onOperate tonometers, corneal topographers, and fundus cameras following established safety protocols to capture accurate diagnostic measurements for glaucoma and retinal disease screening.
  • MindsetAdvocate preventive eye care and vision health education when teaching patients about ocular disease management, contact lens hygiene, and lifestyle modifications.
  • KnowledgeInterpret color vision test results, visual field data, and binocular vision assessments to identify functional vision impairments affecting daily activities and occupational performance.
  • Hands-onManipulate gonioscopy lenses, scleral depressors, and condensing lenses during anterior chamber examination and dilated fundus evaluation to detect structural abnormalities.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate practice management data and patient outcome metrics using electronic health record systems to optimize clinical efficiency and patient satisfaction while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Optometrists (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

41,890

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$70,060
10% of workers earn the following or more$203,210
Workers on average earn$140,940

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Medicine and Dentistry4.8/5
  • Biology4.5/5
  • Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
  • English Language3.9/5
  • Mathematics3.6/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Intuit QuickBooksMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft SQL ServerMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Accra Med Software FiloptoAltaPoint Data Systems AltaPoint VisionBabcock Winx ProCompulink Business Systems Eyecare AdvantageDigital Healthcare OptoMizeFirst Insight E-Z FrameFirst Insight MaximEyesHealthLine Systems Eyecom

Tools & Equipment

4-well lens holders8-well lens flippersAdult fixation targetsAmsler gridsAutorefractorsBinocular indirect ophthalmoscopesBiomicroscopesBroken wheel visual acuity cards