Advance Your Career as a Staff Optometrist with the VA
Are you a dedicated Optometrist looking for a role that combines clinical excellence with a higher purpose? The West Palm Beach VA Medical Center is seeking an experienced, dynamic professional to join our team in Vero Beach, Florida. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a high-standard academic environment, serving those who have served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Optometrist, you will be on the front lines of patient health. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Performing comprehensive eye examinations and diagnostic work-ups.
- Diagnosing and managing complex ophthalmic conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
- Collaborating with the ophthalmology team to develop integrated treatment plans.
- Contributing to the education and supervision of optometric externs.
- Maintaining accurate clinical documentation and electronic records.
- Ordering and dispensing optical aids for visually impaired veterans.
Comparison: Private Practice vs. VA Optometry
| Feature | Private Practice | VA Healthcare |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Focus | Revenue-driven | Patient-outcomes driven |
| Benefits | Varies by employer | Comprehensive federal package |
| Collaboration | Often limited | Highly integrated multidisciplinary team |
| Patient Population | General public | Veterans with complex needs |
Requirements
To be considered for this vital position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: An active, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in any U.S. state or territory.
- Proficiency: Fluency in written and spoken English.
- Physical Standards: Must pass a pre-employment medical exam.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $72,553 to $186,854 per year. Final pay is determined by a formal board review process that takes your specific experience, academic standing, and professional achievements into account.
Benefits of Working at the VA
The VA provides a total rewards package that supports your professional and personal life:
- Time Off: Generous accrual of 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Access to a federal pension and a 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with government matching.
- Insurance: A variety of federal health, dental, and life insurance plans that can follow you into retirement.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Experience: Explicitly detail your work with complex ocular disease and your experience in clinical supervision.
- Organize Documents: Have your CV, state license, and DD-214 (if applicable) ready before starting your application.
- Follow Procedures: The VA uses a standardized hiring process. Ensure you fill out the questionnaire thoroughly to be properly referred to the hiring manager.
Joining the West Palm Beach VA as a Staff Optometrist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. With a strong support system, excellent benefits, and a focus on high-quality patient care, the VA offers an ideal environment for clinical growth. Apply today to start your journey with the VA team.
Why This Staff Optometrist Job Matters
Transform lives by providing world-class vision care to our nation's heroes—join the dedicated team at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center.
Staff Optometrist Job Overview
The West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System is seeking a skilled and compassionate Optometrist to join our clinical team at the Vero Beach location. In this role, you will play a critical part in our mission to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered eye care to veterans. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, contribute to academic programs, and utilize state-of-the-art facilities to diagnose and treat a wide spectrum of ocular conditions. If you are passionate about high-quality clinical care and want to support those who have served, we invite you to apply.
Requirements for Staff Optometrist
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific hiring conditions are met)
- Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited school or college
- Active, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Optometrist
- Experience in diagnosing and treating complex ocular conditions including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy
- Previous experience in hospital-based or clinical optometry settings
- Experience in teaching, supervising, or administering optometric externship programs
- Board certification or completion of an approved optometric residency training program
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular performance-based increases
- ✓50 days of paid time off per year (26 days annual, 13 days sick, 11 federal holidays)
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Staff Optometrist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Optometrist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and supporting documentation (e.g., DD-214, SF-50, licensure proof).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates regarding your eligibility and potential interviews.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to highlight your clinical expertise relevant to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Ensure all your credentials and license details are clearly documented.
- Submit all required documents, such as your DD-214 for veterans' preference, to avoid delays in consideration.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or virtual position?
No, this is an onsite position based at the Vero Beach location within the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System.
What is the expected salary for this position?
The salary range for this position is $72,553 to $186,854 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Is residency training required?
While residency is not strictly mandatory for all grades, it is highly valued and can be used to meet experience requirements in lieu of practice years.
What is the work schedule?
*A: The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, though patient needs may occasionally dictate shift adjustments.*
Is there funding for moving?
*A: Relocation and recruitment incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates.*
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
*A: Yes, this position is open to the public; however, veterans' preference is applied to qualified applicants.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System (WPB VAHCS) is a state-of-the-art facility providing primary and specialty care across Florida's Treasure Coast. With a mission grounded in "Whole Health" care, our teams prioritize the long-term well-being of our veterans through comprehensive, compassionate medicine.