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
Optometrist
Optometry 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.
Advanced
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.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate therapeutic drug regimens for ocular infections, inflammation, and chronic conditions considering pharmacological interactions, patient medical history, and regulatory requirements.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign customized vision therapy and contact lens fitting protocols adapting treatment approaches for pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients with varying ocular anatomies.
Advanced
Hands-onPerform comprehensive eye examinations using biomicroscopes, ophthalmoscopes, and phoroptors independently in clinical settings with diverse patient populations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze refractive error measurements and visual acuity test results integrating autorefractor data, retinoscopy findings, and patient symptoms to prescribe corrective lenses.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered communication with evidence-based diagnostic protocols when explaining complex visual conditions and treatment options to patients with varying health literacy levels.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate tonometers, corneal topographers, and fundus cameras following established safety protocols to capture accurate diagnostic measurements for glaucoma and retinal disease screening.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate preventive eye care and vision health education when teaching patients about ocular disease management, contact lens hygiene, and lifestyle modifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret color vision test results, visual field data, and binocular vision assessments to identify functional vision impairments affecting daily activities and occupational performance.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate gonioscopy lenses, scleral depressors, and condensing lenses during anterior chamber examination and dilated fundus evaluation to detect structural abnormalities.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate practice management data and patient outcome metrics using electronic health record systems to optimize clinical efficiency and patient satisfaction while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Proficient
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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $70,060. 25th percentile: U.S. $103,310. 50th percentile: U.S. $134,830. 75th percentile: U.S. $163,710. 90th percentile: U.S. $203,210. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
