Graduating from optometry school is a huge accomplishment—but stepping into your first clinical role can still feel daunting. You’ve mastered the academics, but now it’s time to apply your skills in real-world settings, with real patients and real challenges.
For many recent grads, short-term work—such as fill-in shifts, contract roles, or per diem opportunities—can be a powerful stepping stone. These optometry jobs for new graduates offer hands-on experience, help you adapt to different practice environments, and build the confidence you’ll carry throughout your career.
Here’s why fill-in work can be one of the smartest career moves you make as a new OD.
1. Exposure to a Variety of Clinical Settings
When you work short-term assignments, you’re not limited to one style of practice.
• Private practice vs. corporate optical – See how patient flow, equipment, and expectations differ.
• Urban vs. rural – Understand how demographics and access to care influence exam needs.
• Specialized services – Get firsthand experience with practices that focus on pediatrics, contact lenses, or medical optometry.
This variety accelerates your learning and helps you discover which environment feels like the best long-term fit.
2. Sharpening Clinical and Communication Skills
With every new setting, you’ll encounter different patient populations, personalities, and ocular conditions.
• Build confidence in diagnosing and managing a broader range of cases.
• Learn to communicate with diverse patient groups and adapt your style on the fly.
• Strengthen your ability to work within different team structures and workflows.
In short, fill-in work teaches you to be quick on your feet—both clinically and interpersonally.
3. Building a Professional Network Early
Each assignment introduces you to new colleagues, referral sources, and mentors.
• Office managers and staff can become advocates for your skills.
• Fellow ODs may share career advice and openings you won’t see online.
• Recruiters and staffing firms can connect you to consistent opportunities.
These connections can lead to permanent roles or ongoing locum work.
4. Boosting Confidence Before a Permanent Role
Even if your goal is to settle into a long-term position, short-term work can be the perfect bridge.
• You’ll test your skills in multiple real-world situations before committing.
• Early challenges will feel less intimidating once you’ve handled them in different contexts.
• You’ll gain stories and examples for interviews that showcase your adaptability.
By the time you land a permanent role, you’ll walk in with a solid track record and self-assurance.
5. Keeping Career Options Open
Not all optometry jobs for new graduates are created equal, and you may find your ideal path isn’t the one you first envisioned. Short-term work gives you the freedom to explore without locking yourself in. You can:
• Try different geographic locations before relocating.
• Experiment with schedules and workloads.
• Learn what truly motivates you in patient care.
This flexibility is a career advantage you may not have later on.
The leap from new graduate to confident, experienced optometrist doesn’t happen overnight—but fill-in work can get you there faster. By exposing you to a variety of settings, sharpening your skills, and expanding your network, these opportunities lay the foundation for a strong and adaptable career.
If you’re a recent grad, consider saying “yes” to those fill-in or contract offers. Each shift is more than just a job—it’s an investment in your growth, confidence, and future success.
Sign up for a free OD PRN account and start building your future today.
