Optometry School Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving world of eye care, the focus on optometry school professors has never been more significant.

As advancements in optical technology and patient care continue, there’s an increasing demand for skilled educators who can impart, enhance, and protect our knowledge of optometry.

But what does it really entail to be an optometry school professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring academic seeking to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring committee outlining the ideal faculty member,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of optometry education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable optometry school professor job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Optometry School Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Optometry School Professors are responsible for teaching optometry students about the human eye, eye care, and eye diseases.

They also conduct research and contribute to the academic field of optometry.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering lectures on various optometry topics to students
• Creating comprehensive lesson plans and materials to facilitate learning
• Teaching students about the anatomy and physiology of the human eye, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions
• Supervising students’ clinical practice and giving constructive feedback
• Evaluating student performance, grading assignments, and administering exams
• Conducting research in the field of optometry and publishing findings in academic journals
• Advising students on their academic and career paths within optometry
• Participating in department meetings, curriculum development, and other faculty responsibilities
• Keeping up-to-date with new developments in optometry and incorporating them into course content
• Engaging in community service, including providing eye care and education to underserved communities

 

Optometry School Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Optometry School Professor to teach and guide future optometrists.

Optometry School Professor responsibilities include delivering lectures, setting and marking exams, contributing to curriculum development, and conducting original research in the field of optometry.

Our ideal candidate is an experienced optometrist with a passion for teaching and a track record of academic or professional contributions to the field.

Ultimately, the role of the Optometry School Professor is to provide high-quality education and training for optometry students and contribute to the advancement of optometry as a discipline.

 

Responsibilities

• Deliver lectures on optometry topics to undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Set and mark exams and coursework
• Supervise students’ clinical practice
• Conduct original research in optometry
• Contribute to curriculum development in the department
• Mentor and advise students on their academic and career paths
• Participate in departmental meetings and serve on committees
• Stay updated with latest developments in optometry and incorporate them into teaching and research
• Contribute to the academic community by publishing articles and attending conferences

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution
• State license to practice optometry
• Experience as an optometrist in clinical practice
• Experience in teaching and academic research, preferably in a university setting
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to mentor and inspire students
• Strong record of academic or professional contributions to the field of optometry

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Optometry School Professor
• Work Environment: University setting, including classrooms, offices, and clinical practice settings. Some evening or weekend work may be required for lectures, office hours, or research activities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Optometry Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of published work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Optometry School Professor Do?

Optometry School Professors generally work in universities or specialized optometry institutions.

Their main role is to educate and train aspiring optometrists.

They deliver lectures on a range of topics such as vision science, ocular anatomy, optometric procedures, and eye diseases.

They also teach students the clinical skills necessary for the profession such as how to conduct eye examinations, prescribe corrective lenses, and detect eye abnormalities and diseases.

Optometry School Professors may also supervise clinical practicums where students gain practical experience under their guidance.

They assess students’ academic performance and clinical competency, providing feedback and advice to enhance their learning and practice.

In addition to teaching, Optometry School Professors often engage in research to advance the field of optometry.

They may publish their findings in academic journals, present at conferences, and contribute to the development of new theories, techniques, and technologies in optometry.

They may also provide services to the community, such as eye care clinics, and participate in administrative duties within their institution, such as curriculum development, student admissions, and faculty committees.

 

Optometry School Professor Qualifications and Skills

An Optometry School Professor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role’s responsibilities, such as:

• Advanced knowledge and understanding of optometry to educate students on everything from basic eye anatomy to complex vision disorders
• Ability to create, plan, and implement course curricula that meet academic standards and effectively educate students in the field of optometry
• Exceptional presentation skills to effectively communicate complex ideas to students in a clear, accessible manner
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive relationships with students, provide guidance, and foster a supportive learning environment
• Research skills to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field of optometry and incorporate them into the curriculum
• Experience in clinical settings to provide students with practical, hands-on instruction and guidance
• Ability to evaluate and grade student performance based on established criteria
• Commitment to continuous professional development, as the field of optometry is constantly evolving
• Time management and organizational skills to balance teaching duties, administrative tasks, and research

 

Optometry School Professor Experience Requirements

An Optometry School Professor would typically be required to have substantial experience in the field of optometry, usually a minimum of 5 to 10 years.

This would ideally include practical experience as an optometrist, as well as research experience in optometry or a related field.

Candidates for the role are often expected to have completed an O.D. (Doctor of Optometry) program, followed by a residency or fellowship in a specialized area of optometry.

Some institutions may also require a Ph.D. or equivalent research degree.

Teaching experience is also highly valued, with many institutions preferring candidates who have spent a few years teaching optometry at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.

Alternatively, experience as a guest lecturer, teaching assistant, or mentor can also be beneficial.

For those aiming at senior professor roles, evidence of leadership in research, clinical practice, or administrative roles in academia is usually required.

This can include leading a research team, managing a clinical department, or overseeing an academic program.

Lastly, a successful record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, grants received, and involvement in professional organizations could also be considered as part of the experience requirements.

 

Optometry School Professor Education and Training Requirements

Optometry School Professors typically have a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree from an accredited optometry school.

In addition to the O.D. degree, some institutions may require a PhD in a related field, like vision science or biology, particularly for professors who will be conducting research.

Gaining practical experience in the field of optometry, such as through a residency program or years of clinical practice, is also often required.

This helps professors to have real-world examples and experiences to share with their students.

To become a full-time professor, it is also generally expected that the individual will have experience in teaching or academic research.

Professors in optometry school might also need to be licensed optometrists, depending on the regulations of their region or country.

This usually involves passing a national board examination and fulfilling certain state-specific requirements.

Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure and stay updated on the latest advancements in the field of optometry.

Those aiming for senior positions might also need a proven track record of published research, along with strong leadership and mentorship skills.

 

Optometry School Professor Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Optometry School Professor is approximately $115,000 (USD) per year.

The earnings can vary depending upon factors such as the level of experience, specific expertise, geographical location, and the institution they are working for.

 

Optometry School Professor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Optometry School Professor need?

Optometry School Professors generally need a Doctor of Optometry degree, a state license to practice, and additional experience in the field.

Many also have a Master’s or Doctorate degree in a related field.

Professors who conduct research may also need a PhD in a related field.

 

What are the daily duties of an Optometry School Professor?

On a typical day, an Optometry School Professor might prepare and deliver lectures, create and grade exams and assignments, advise students on academic matters, and conduct research in their area of expertise.

They may also sit on academic or administrative committees, participate in departmental meetings, and contribute to curriculum development.

 

What qualities make a good Optometry School Professor?

A good Optometry School Professor is deeply knowledgeable about the field of optometry, keeps up with the latest research and developments, and is able to communicate complex concepts clearly to students.

They should also be approachable, patient, and good at fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their students.

 

Do Optometry School Professors need to be licensed optometrists?

Generally, Optometry School Professors need to be licensed optometrists.

Having practical experience in the field not only enhances their credibility and teaching, but also ensures they are up-to-date with the latest techniques, advancements, and best practices in the field of optometry.

 

How is the job market for Optometry School Professors?

The job market for Optometry School Professors is generally stable.

As the need for eyecare services increases due to an aging population, more students are attracted to the field of optometry, thereby increasing the demand for knowledgeable and experienced professors.

However, the availability of positions may vary depending on the number of optometry schools and their specific hiring needs.

 

Conclusion

So there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being an Optometry School Professor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about teaching eye care.

It’s about molding the future of optometry, one lecture at a time.

With our reliable Optometry School Professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But don’t just stop there.

Further explore with our job description generator. It’s your perfect partner for creating precision-focused listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every lecture is a step towards a clearer vision.

Let’s shape the future of optometry. Together.

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