As an Optometrist with the Department of National Defence, you will provide comprehensive eye care services to Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and eligible civilian employees. You will conduct eye examinations, diagnose eye conditions and diseases, prescribe corrective lenses and medications, and provide treatment recommendations. Your work directly supports the health and operational readiness of the military community by ensuring optimal vision health and early detection of eye-related conditions that may affect duty performance.
Optometrists in DND work in military hospitals, clinics, and health care facilities across Canada and internationally. You will collaborate with other health care professionals including physicians, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists to provide integrated patient care. Your responsibilities include maintaining detailed patient records, staying current with advances in optometric practice, and ensuring compliance with military health standards and regulations. You may also participate in health promotion initiatives and provide specialized services such as contact lens fitting and low vision rehabilitation.
Key Responsibilities
Provide general health care and social services services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Optometrist with DND, you must hold a Doctor of Optometry degree (O.D. or D.Opt.) from an accredited optometry program. Canadian applicants typically complete a four-year optometry program following two years of prerequisite university coursework. You must be licensed to practice optometry in your province or territory of employment. Many positions require or prefer completion of additional training in areas such as contact lenses, pediatric optometry, or low vision rehabilitation. Professional development opportunities within DND include specialized military health courses, advanced clinical training, and continuing education programs. Membership in professional organizations such as Optometrists Canada is encouraged, and DND supports participation in relevant conferences and professional development activities.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Optometrist position with DND typically occurs through advertised competitions posted on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the educational and licensing requirements. Some positions may be filled through lateral moves from other federal health care employers or from provincial health authorities. DND may maintain talent pools of qualified optometrists for faster recruitment to fill vacancies. Recent optometry graduates may find opportunities through student placement programs or as casual/term employees before transitioning to permanent positions. Applicants should be prepared to obtain security clearance and pass a medical assessment appropriate to the role.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Optometrists in DND are available depending on operational requirements and facility needs. Many military health clinics offer flexible scheduling to accommodate clinical service demands and employee preferences. Remote work is generally limited due to the clinical nature of optometric practice, which requires direct patient contact and specialized equipment. However, administrative, consultation, and professional development activities may be conducted remotely. Term and casual employment options provide flexible entry points for individuals seeking part-time or temporary work. Specific arrangements are negotiated with individual employers and may vary by location and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
