Retail Optometrist Salary Range
Clear vision helps us to see the world as it is, in all its color, shape and texture. The ability to see clearly is also a key factor in keeping people safe by allowing them to detect obstacles and dangers before they can cause harm. Optometrists are a vital part of maintaining and achieving clear vision.
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Job Description
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Retail optometrists examine patients in retail outlets and prescribe any vision enhancements a patient requires, such as glasses and contacts. They test and assess the current state of a patient's vision, then determine the correct magnification power and location for glasses and contacts. Retail optometrists are also among the fist to see and recognize vision issues such as glaucoma, astigmatism and detached retinas, recommending patients for further examination by a specialized optometrist or an ophthalmologist (medical eye specialist). Optometrists are doctors of optometry and must hold a license in the state where they practice. Some retail outlets employ an on-site staff optometrist, while other outlets subcontract with an outside optometrist to conduct on-site examinations on an agreed schedule.
Compensation
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The average salary range for a retail optometrist working in a franchise in January 2011 was between $73,390 and $101,557, according to PayScale. Those working for a company earned from $76,589 to $101,414. Optometrists working for larger companies or chains may also receive bonuses or commissions, along with a generous benefits package including health insurance, life insurance, paid vacation and sick days, retirement benefits and employee stock purchase options.
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Hourly Wage
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Some optometrists who work part-time for a retail outlet while maintaining hours in another practice may earn an hourly wage. According to PayScale, optometrists working for companies earned between $40.55 and $51.98 per hour in January 2011. Those working for franchises received hourly wages from $36.00 to $50.07.
Employer Size
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Optometrists who work for larger retail companies earn a higher salary. PayScale reports that optometrists working for a company earning from $500,000 up to $1.999 million received a salary of between $76,144 and $122,084 in January 2011. Those who worked for a company earning less than $500,000 received a salary ranging from $70,736 to $103,344.
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References
- Photo Credit retinascope and trial frame image by hazel proudlove from Fotolia.com
