Optometrist

About the role

This optometrist practices in a medically focused, referral-driven model and does not generally provide routine primary eye care. The role is designed for clinicians who function as trusted medical partners—both to ophthalmologists within the organization and to referring optometrists in the community. These optometrists manage a broad spectrum of medical eye disease and play a key role in pre- and post-operative care, delivering consistent, high-quality clinical judgment that referring physicians can rely on with confidence.

What You’ll Do

Clinical Scope

Clinical decision-making is emphasized, with an expectation of appropriate escalation, collaboration, and documentation that supports seamless shared care. The position involves comprehensive medical eye care, including but not limited to:

• Pre-operative evaluation and counseling for cataract and refractive surgery
• Post-operative management of surgical patients
• Diagnosis and management of glaucoma, including longitudinal care and escalation when appropriate
• Management of ocular surface disease, including dry eye and inflammatory conditions
• Evaluation and treatment of common medical eye conditions encountered in a specialty practice setting

Professional Expectations

Referring physicians should feel confident that patients shared into this model receive thoughtful, high-quality care consistent with specialty practice standards. Optometrists in this role are expected to:

• Demonstrate strong training and sound clinical judgment
• Communicate effectively with patients, surgeons, and referring providers
• Function independently while collaborating closely within a multidisciplinary care team
• Uphold high standards of professionalism, ethics, and patient advocacy

Community Engagement & Professional Presence

This role extends beyond the clinic. Successful candidates actively build and maintain a strong professional reputation through:

• Engagement with referring optometrists and healthcare professionals
• Participation in community and professional meetings
• Leadership involvement in local or regional professional organizations
• Speaking engagements, education, or clinical outreach initiatives when appropriate

The optometrist serves as both a clinician and an ambassador for collaborative care within the region.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal optometrist for this position:

• Is medically focused and comfortable managing complex eye disease
• Values collaboration and long-term professional relationships
• Is respected by peers for judgment, communication, and integrity
• Seeks a role centered on medical care, not retail or primary eye care
• Is motivated to contribute to the growth, reputation, and clinical excellence of the practice

Requirements

What You’ll Bring

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from an accredited institution
• Completion of an accredited Ophthalmology Residency program
• Board Certified or Board Eligible in Ophthalmology
• Active Tennessee medical license, or ability to obtain licensure prior to start date
• DEA registration and unrestricted authority to prescribe medications
• Demonstrated expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic diseases and disorders
• Strong clinical and surgical judgment with a patient-centered approach to care
• Ability to collaborate effectively with optometrists, ophthalmologists, surgeons, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and documentation skills

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off & Holidays
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Continuing Education Support
• Certification Sponsorship
• Employee Eyewear Discounts
• Referral Bonus Opportunities

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods
• Frequent use of hands, fingers, and computer equipment
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients and team members
• Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds