Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Orthoptist is a specialized healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats disorders of eye movements and associated vision problems, primarily focusing on binocular vision and eye alignment. They often work with patients of all ages who have conditions like strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), and diplopia (double vision).
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 2.0% (below average)
Annual job openings: 2 400
Direct AI exposure: 19% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 56% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Physician Assistants, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals. According to the wage tables, average income is $97K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $50K per year | NA per year | $97K per year | NA per year | $125K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $32K above the national average. | ||||
Orthoptists primarily work in hospitals, eye clinics, or private ophthalmology or optometry practices. They work closely with ophthalmologists, providing key assessments that guide treatment plans. Their environment is typically clinical, involving the use of various eye testing equipment.
Orthoptists play a critical role in the eye care field, specializing in the assessment and non-surgical treatment of eye disorders. They are skilled in using various diagnostic tools to evaluate problems with eye alignment and movement, often identifying issues that are not apparent in standard eye exams. The ability to accurately diagnose and manage these conditions is crucial, as it can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, including their ability to read, drive, and perform daily activities.
The profession requires a deep understanding of the visual system, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex information to patients of all ages. Orthoptists must be detail-oriented to precisely assess and monitor conditions over time. They often work with patients who require long-term care, which can involve developing strong patient-practitioner relationships.
Orthoptics is a rewarding career for those interested in a specialized healthcare field that combines patient care with detailed clinical assessment. It offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in patients' visual abilities and overall well-being.
In Canada, becoming an Orthoptist typically involves completing a bachelor's degree, followed by an accredited post-baccalaureate orthoptic training program lasting approximately two years. Graduates must obtain certification through the Canadian Orthoptic Council to practise. This pathway generally requires about six years of post-secondary education.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
