Optometrist

Optometrist - Refractive Surgery ServicesWe are seeking an experienced Optometrist to join a growing vision care practice in Durham, NC. This position will provide comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care for refractive surgery patients while supporting general optometric services.The Optometrist will work closely with ophthalmologists, clinical staff, and leadership to provide high-quality patient care, support positive clinical outcomes, and contribute to an excellent patient experience.The role also includes mentoring and training other optometrists and clinical staff, chart review, quality initiatives, and selected administrative and leadership responsibilities. Virtual optometric care may also be provided from the vision center based on patient and business needs.Key ResponsibilitiesClinical CarePerform comprehensive preoperative and postoperative eye examinations for LASIK and other refractive surgery patients.Perform general eye examinations and office visits as needed.Evaluate patient candidacy and educate patients regarding treatment options.Make clinical recommendations to the ophthalmologist.Monitor postoperative outcomes and manage routine postoperative care in collaboration with the ophthalmologist.Review and document patient charts for accuracy, completeness, and timely follow-up.Follow established clinical protocols and quality standards.Collaborate with ophthalmologists regarding patient candidacy and treatment criteria.Virtual Care & TeleoptometryProvide virtual optometric care from the assigned vision center as scheduled or when coverage is needed.Conduct virtual consultations, triage, preoperative and postoperative follow-ups, chart reviews, patient education, and care coordination when appropriate.Use approved virtual-care technology and maintain accurate documentation.Determine when an in-person examination, diagnostic testing, or physician evaluation is necessary.Coordinate appropriate patient handoffs when additional care is required.Maintain patient confidentiality and a professional virtual-care environment.Provide virtual care only in jurisdictions where the Optometrist is properly licensed and authorized to practice.Mentorship & TrainingMentor and support optometrists and clinical staff through coaching and education.Assist with onboarding and ongoing training of optometric team members.Support continuing education and professional development.Promote clinical excellence and adherence to established protocols.Collaborate with clinical leadership to support team development.Administrative & Leadership SupportAssist with team scheduling, workflow coordination, and coverage planning.Participate in performance reviews, coaching, and development activities as assigned.Participate in initiatives related to patient satisfaction, quality, performance metrics, and continuous improvement.Support vision center operational goals while maintaining clinical independence and patient-centered decision-making.Participate in quality review, risk management, and clinical governance activities as required.Schedule & AvailabilityFull-time position.Flexible schedule based on patient and business needs.Schedule may include evening and Saturday hours.Work schedules may be adjusted based on patient demand and staffing needs.Occasional on-call or cross-center coverage may be required.Virtual coverage may be required when appropriate.QualificationsDoctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited institution.Active and unrestricted Optometry license in North Carolina.Ability and willingness to obtain additional state licensure when required.Experience in refractive surgery, laser vision correction, or co-management preferred.Strong clinical judgment and attention to detail.Commitment to patient-centered care.Ability to mentor, coach, educate, and collaborate effectively with clinical teams.Strong organizational, communication, documentation, and administrative skills.Comfortable using virtual-care technology.Ability to work effectively in a dynamic clinical environment.Work EnvironmentClinical setting within a vision center in Durham, NC.Fast-paced, patient-focused environment.Collaboration with ophthalmologists, optometrists, clinical staff, and leadership.Virtual care may be performed from the assigned vision center using approved technology and privacy safeguards.Opportunity HighlightsLeadership and mentorship responsibilities.Opportunity to work alongside ophthalmologists and clinical teams.Exposure to refractive surgery and laser vision correction.Combination of in-person and virtual optometric care.Professional development and continued clinical growth opportunities.Opportunity to contribute to quality improvement and clinical initiatives.