Optometrist Working Conditions

Optometrists held about 40,600 jobs in 2014. About 49 percent of optometrists worked in stand-alone offices of optometry. Optometrists may also work in doctors’ offices and optical goods stores. About 1 in 6 optometrists were self-employed in 2014.

Most optometrists work full time. Some work evenings and weekends to accommodate patients’ needs.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition