What are the responsibilities and job description for the Optometrist 3 HX position at UC Davis Health?
Job Summary
This position will be for the Optometric Service which is employed under the UC Davis Medical Practice and under the medical direction of the Department of Ophthalmology. The incumbent provides primary eye care and disease treatment including diagnosis, treatment and management of of disease, injuries and disorders of the visual system, eye, and associated optical structures as well as identifying related systemic conditions. Duties of the optometrist include performing visual examinations and assessments, prescribing and dispensing optical devices, including contact lenses to maximize visual function and prescribing the use of pharmaceutical agents as allowed by the California State Board of Optometry and the Department of Ophthalmology’s internal guidelines of optometric scope of practice. Optometric services are provided at various locations around the Sacramento region. Work location and schedules are variable. The Optometrist will have completed the accredited course of study and be licensed as a Doctor of Optometry, as required by the California State Board of Optometry. Must have a California Topical Pharmaceutical Agents license. Completion of post-graduate residency, secondary post- doctorate degrees (i.e. MS, PhD), and/or Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry (i.e. FAAO) preferred. The incumbent shall provide services at UC Davis locations as assigned. Locations may include but are not limited to the Eye Center / Ambulatory Care Clinic, Cadillac Location, Community Physician group locations such as Roseville, Folsom and Davis as well as UC Davis Campus – Student Health Services.
Apply By Date: 4/17/2026 by 11:59pm
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
The Eye Center is an academic/clinical department consisting of clinical faculty, vision scientists, optometrists, residents and clinical fellows.
Dedicated to protecting, preserving, and restoring vision through world-class eye care, innovative research and first-class medical education, UC Davis Health System's Eye Center is Northern California's leading academic tertiary referral center for ophthalmic services.
Clinical expertise goes hand-in-hand with a long-standing reputation for compassionate care and strict adherence to the highest medical, scientific and ethical standards. UC Davis Health System Eye Center is the only facility in the region to integrate into a single location the full range of knowledge, skill and equipment in every aspect of ophthalmic medicine.
Recognized as leaders in their fields, UC Davis Health System providers have advanced training and state-of-the-art proficiencies. Patient care receives the highest priority with the best possible service in all areas of eye care.
POSITION INFORMATION
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Ability to travel and work in multiple clinic locations, including, but not limited to, Sacramento, Davis, Folsom, Roseville, etc.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
This position will be for the Optometric Service which is employed under the UC Davis Medical Practice and under the medical direction of the Department of Ophthalmology. The incumbent provides primary eye care and disease treatment including diagnosis, treatment and management of of disease, injuries and disorders of the visual system, eye, and associated optical structures as well as identifying related systemic conditions. Duties of the optometrist include performing visual examinations and assessments, prescribing and dispensing optical devices, including contact lenses to maximize visual function and prescribing the use of pharmaceutical agents as allowed by the California State Board of Optometry and the Department of Ophthalmology’s internal guidelines of optometric scope of practice. Optometric services are provided at various locations around the Sacramento region. Work location and schedules are variable. The Optometrist will have completed the accredited course of study and be licensed as a Doctor of Optometry, as required by the California State Board of Optometry. Must have a California Topical Pharmaceutical Agents license. Completion of post-graduate residency, secondary post- doctorate degrees (i.e. MS, PhD), and/or Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry (i.e. FAAO) preferred. The incumbent shall provide services at UC Davis locations as assigned. Locations may include but are not limited to the Eye Center / Ambulatory Care Clinic, Cadillac Location, Community Physician group locations such as Roseville, Folsom and Davis as well as UC Davis Campus – Student Health Services.
Apply By Date: 4/17/2026 by 11:59pm
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Licensure by the California State Board of Optometry.
- Doctoral degree in optometry issued by an accredited school / college of optometry.
- Two (2) years of work experience
- The ability to recognize conditions and pathology that require specialty intervention.
- Must demonstrate advanced clinical skills in the use of lensometer, phoropter, keratometer, radiuscope, tonometers, (Goldmann, Tonopen, icare), soft and rigid contact lenses, slit lamp biomicroscope, retinoscope.
- Must work closely with the attending physician.
- Must have knowledge of and experience working with low vision patients, including examination and appropriate referral for related services.
- Must work collaboratively with medical teams, clinical and support staff and be able to provide direction and guidance as needed.
- Thorough knowledge of eye diseases and diagnoses and able to deliver eye care, treatment and diagnostic services to all patients.
- Must be able to work within a diverse team and client group.
- Must have the knowledge and skills to instruct in the clinical application of physiological optics and refraction for resident physicians in conjunction with full-time faculty.
- Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. and the dexterity to lift charts from low cabinets.
- Must be able to function in a busy, noisy, fast-paced environment.
- Carry out specialized clinical procedures including contact lens evaluation and fitting.
- Knowledge of CPT and ICD-10 coding related to optometric services and ability to use appropriately.
- 90% - Clinical Responsibilities
- 10% - Academic Activities: Professional Activity, Teaching and CME
The Eye Center is an academic/clinical department consisting of clinical faculty, vision scientists, optometrists, residents and clinical fellows.
Dedicated to protecting, preserving, and restoring vision through world-class eye care, innovative research and first-class medical education, UC Davis Health System's Eye Center is Northern California's leading academic tertiary referral center for ophthalmic services.
Clinical expertise goes hand-in-hand with a long-standing reputation for compassionate care and strict adherence to the highest medical, scientific and ethical standards. UC Davis Health System Eye Center is the only facility in the region to integrate into a single location the full range of knowledge, skill and equipment in every aspect of ophthalmic medicine.
Recognized as leaders in their fields, UC Davis Health System providers have advanced training and state-of-the-art proficiencies. Patient care receives the highest priority with the best possible service in all areas of eye care.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $3,394.40 - $6,383.20
- Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
- Salary Grade: 194
- UC Job Title: OPTOMETRIST 3 HX
- UC Job Code: 004465
- Number of Positions: 1
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): M-F 8-5
- Location: Ellison Ambulatory Care Center (HSP098)
- Union Representation: HX-Healthcare Professionals
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is 100% on-site
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
- Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
- Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
- Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
- Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Twisting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Numerical skills - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8 Hours
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Ability to travel and work in multiple clinic locations, including, but not limited to, Sacramento, Davis, Folsom, Roseville, etc.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
- This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Salary : $3,394 - $6,383