Academic and Clinical Faculty Optometry

Position Classification

FT Optometry Faculty

Position Summary  

The University of Detroit Mercy School of Optometry invites applications for full-time faculty positions. We welcome a diverse group of applicants with interests in primary care, ocular disease, low vision, contact lenses, vision science, or other specialties who are passionate about teaching and mentoring future optometrists in a collaborative, student-centered, and community-focused environment.

Candidates may contribute to clinical instruction, didactic teaching, research, or a combination of these areas, depending on experience and professional interests. Faculty rank will be determined commensurate with qualifications and experience. Early career optometrists will find robust faculty mentorship, onboarding support, and professional development opportunities designed to foster long-term success in academic optometry.

The program is located in Novi, Michigan, a vibrant and welcoming suburban community in Metro Detroit. Novi offers excellent schools, diverse dining, abundant recreation, and affordable living relative to many major metropolitan areas. Its proximity to Detroit provides convenient access to world-class cultural institutions, professional sports, and a thriving healthcare and research ecosystem. Novi is consistently ranked among the top places to live in the United States.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities  

1. Shape the next generation of optometrists through engaging, high-impact teaching and mentorship across didactic, laboratory, and clinical education settings, aligned with program needs and expertise.
2. Participate in the delivery, coordination, and continuous improvement of courses, including development of syllabi, learning objectives, instructional materials, and assessments.
3. Provide timely, constructive, and appropriate feedback to students to support academic and professional development.
4. Participate in the clinical training and supervision of student interns, fostering clinical competence and professionalism.
5. Engage in scholarly activity appropriate to assigned faculty rank and career goals, which may include educational scholarship, clinical research, or professional dissemination.
6. Maintain active participation in local, state, and national optometric organizations, contributing to the profession and staying current with evolving standards of care.
7. Actively participate in program, school, and university committees in support of the mission and goals of the School of Optometry.
8. Foster supportive, professional, and collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, students, and clinical partners.
9. Adopt and advance the mission and goals of the School of Optometry and the University.
10. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the continued growth and success of the School of Optometry.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education – A Doctor of Optometry degree from an ACOE accredited institution.
• Experience – Completion of an ACOE accredited residency or 3 years of clinical experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior teaching and/or research experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Attention to detail and the ability to work with a team in a fast-paced environment
• Exceptional organizational skills and an ability to meet deadlines in an efficient manner
• Computer proficiency, specifically with MS Office and aptitude to learn new computer applications
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to use independent judgment and maintain confidentiality

Physical Requirements

Job may require lifting light weight objects (1 to 10 pounds) with no repetitive bending or stooping. 

Work Environment

Regular exposure to favorable conditions such as those found in a normal office. 

Licenses/Certifications

Licensed and in good standing or eligible for optometry licensure in the state of Michigan. 

Salary/Pay Information

Starting annual salary of $120,000, with higher compensation commensurate with experience.

Anticipated Schedule   

The position is available immediately, with a start date as soon as possible or as mutually agreed upon. Faculty assignments determined by program needs, faculty experience, and professional interests