Advance Your Optometry Career with the Veterans Health Administration in Marion, Indiana
Are you a dedicated eye care professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a skilled Optometrist to join our clinical team at the Marion, Indiana facility. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to providing world-class vision care to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As an Optometrist at the VA, your primary focus will be providing quality, comprehensive vision care to outpatients and inpatients. Key responsibilities include:
- Diagnosing and managing a wide range of complex ophthalmic conditions.
- Utilizing advanced ophthalmic imaging technologies and interpreting diagnostic data.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure integrated, patient-centered care.
- Conducting disability and compensation exams as requested.
- Reviewing teleretinal images and providing clinical guidance.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Education: A Doctor of Optometry degree from an ACOE-accredited school.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license from any U.S. state or territory.
- Experience: Successful completion of an accredited residency program OR two years of clinical practice with medically complex patients.
- Physical: Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination and possess the motor skills required for operating ophthalmic equipment.
Salary and Compensation Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $128,000 - $150,000 per year |
| Loan Repayment | Up to $200,000 (EDRP) |
| Annual Leave | 26 Days (approx.) |
| CME Allowance | Up to $1,000 per year |
Benefits of Federal Employment
Federal employment with the VA offers a robust total rewards package. Beyond competitive pay, you gain access to a traditional federal pension, a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% agency matching, and comprehensive health and life insurance options that can follow you into retirement.
Application Tips
- Use the Correct Resume: Download the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA website to ensure your application meets formatting standards.
- Be Detailed: Do not assume the hiring panel knows your capabilities. Document your specific experience with complex patients and imaging tools.
- Include Supporting Docs: Ensure you have your DD-214 (if applicable), state license, and official transcripts ready for upload.
This position represents a unique opportunity for an Optometrist to balance professional growth with a high quality of life. If you are ready to provide exceptional care to our Veterans, apply through the USAJOBS portal before August 28, 2026.
Why This Optometrist Job Matters
Transform lives in the heart of Indiana: Join the VA as an Optometrist and take advantage of a $200,000 student debt reduction program and comprehensive federal benefits.
Optometrist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Optometrist to provide high-quality eye care to our nation's heroes in Marion, Indiana. This role offers the opportunity to practice comprehensive vision care within a collaborative, mission-driven environment. With a competitive salary, generous paid leave, and significant student loan repayment incentives, this position is ideal for clinical professionals committed to clinical excellence and compassionate service.
Requirements for Optometrist
- Doctor of Optometry degree from an ACOE-accredited institution.
- Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Completion of an accredited residency program OR two years of licensed clinical experience with medically complex patients.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- U.S. citizenship is preferred; non-citizens may be appointed under specific conditions.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Optometrist
- Experience in ophthalmic imaging and interpretation.
- Proven expertise in managing medically complex ocular conditions.
- Strong communication skills for patient education and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- A track record of participation in peer review or quality evaluation activities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000.
- ✓Recruitment Incentive program.
- ✓Federal pension and 401k-style thrift savings plan (up to 5% match).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
- ✓11 paid federal holidays.
- ✓CME reimbursement up to $1,000 annually.
- ✓Liability protection with tail coverage.
💡 How to Apply Optometrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Optometrist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire online.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided link.
- Upload the Clinical Resume along with your comprehensive CV/resume and supporting documentation (licenses, transcripts, etc.).
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of August 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be as specific as possible when describing your experience in your resume; avoid generalizations.
- Ensure your Clinical Resume document is uploaded to the specific 'Resume' field requested.
- Double-check that all supporting documents, such as your current medical license, are clear and readable.
- Monitor your email for status updates following the announcement closing date.
- If you are a veteran, ensure you include your DD-214 to receive appropriate hiring preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement over a five-year period.
What is the work schedule?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with potential for compressed tour options.
Do I need a license in Indiana specifically?
No, you must possess a current, full, and unrestricted license from any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation expenses are not offered for this specific vacancy, but we do offer a recruitment incentive.
Can I work at other facilities?
This role is based in Marion, IN, though the VA offers numerous opportunities across the country for internal transfers later in your career.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. Working at the Marion VA means becoming part of a community-focused facility in Grant County, Indiana, known for its affordable cost of living and supportive atmosphere.