Most optometrists work 40 hours a week. However, some work more than 50 hours a week. Optometrists who work for optical store chains may work weekends and evenings. Optometrists often work past normal retirement age. They may wear lab jackets.
Wages vary according to training and experience.
Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies with the employer's location and the worker's specialty and experience. The cost of opening a private practice is high. In the short term, optometrists who begin work in a commercial setting or who join a group practice tend to earn more than those who set up their own practice. In the longer term, optometrists in private practice generally earn more than other optometrists.