SEARHC is a non-profit health consortium which serves the health interests of the residents of Southeast Alaska. We see our employees as our strongest assets. It is our priority to further their development and our organization by aiding in their professional advancement.
Working at SEARHC is more than a job, it’s a fulfilling career. We offer generous benefits, including retirement, paid time off, paid parental leave, health insurance, dental, and vision benefits, life insurance and long and short-term disability, and more.
Join SEARHC (SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium) in beautiful Sitka, Alaska—where mission-driven care meets one of the most stunning and culturally rich environments in the country. We are seeking a part-time compassionate and skilled Optometrist to join an established and collegial team at the Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center Optometry Clinic, serving a diverse patient population and supporting community health in both clinic and rural settings.
Why Choose SEARHC?
As one of the largest Native-run healthcare organizations in the United States, SEARHC is committed to providing quality healthcare that honors the traditions of Alaska Native people and American Indians, while ensuring that advanced medical technologies are made accessible to all.
Brand-new clinic and co-located hospital with modern infrastructure in the new $300 million Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center opened in April 2026.
In 2021 SEARHC opened the Wrangell Medical Center. With plans to build a third critical-access hospital in Haines. In addition to the dozens of established outpatient and traveling clinics throughout the region.
Practice Details:
Clinic Facilities: Fully equipped clinic with 2 exam rooms, 1 testing room.
Patient Volume: ~14 patients per day with 2:1 Assistant.
Technology: Meditech EMR, OCT, visual field, retinal cameras, Pentacam, Zeiss Forum, Expanding laser capabilities.
Regional & Outreach Care: Primarily based in Sitka with traveling to field clinics in communities such as Haines, Wrangell, Angoon, and Kake. Full-service care in rural settings.
Qualifications:
New graduates are encouraged to apply.
Two or more years of clinical experience preferred.
Doctor of Optometry (O.D.).
Active/unrestricted Alaska license (or ability to obtain).
BLS certification within 3 months.
Community and Lifestyle:
Location: Experience the unmatched beauty and lifestyle of Sitka, Alaska—where oceanfront living, abundant outdoor recreation, and a close-knit community come together to create a truly unique and rewarding place to live and practice.
Affordability: Alaska has no state income tax — residents keep more of their paycheck compared to most other states.
Education: Sitka offers a highly regarded school system with small class sizes, strong academic performance, and a supportive, community-centered environment—ideal for families seeking a high-quality education experience.
Transportation: Sitka offers convenient and reliable transportation, with daily commercial flights connecting to Seattle and Juneau, a local road system that makes getting around town simple, and access to the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system for scenic regional travel throughout Southeast Alaska.
Culture: Sitka offers a rich cultural experience, blending strong Alaska Native heritage—particularly Tlingit traditions—with a vibrant arts community, local festivals, and a deep sense of history that creates a unique and welcoming environment.
Working at SEARHC is more than a job—it’s the opportunity to build a fulfilling and rewarding career and to learn more please reach out to Provider Recruiter, Lyndse Clark: [email protected] or at (907)463-7531.
Key Essential Functions and Accountabilities of the Job
Provide comprehensive eye care including but not limited to diagnosis, treatment, minor procedures, coordination of care, referrals, consultations, patient or community education and co-management as applicable.
Accurate and timely medical recordkeeping.
Conduct field Eye Clinics to SEARHC locations.
Assist with on-the-job training and competency of the local Eye Clinic staff.
May sponsor Dispensing Optician Apprentices.
May precept and mentor optometry students.
Support departmental compliance with all applicable regulatory agencies, accreditation programs and SEARHC policies and procedures.
Travel required.
Other duties as assigned.
Education, Certifications, and Licenses Required
Full-Time: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) with a current unrestricted Alaska Optometry license.
Intermittent: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) with a current unrestricted U.S. Optometry license, with Alaska Optometry license preferred.
BLS upon start date.
Experience Required
Preferred: Completion of Optometric Residency or Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry or a current Optometry Board Certification OR 2 years of clinical optometry experience.
Knowledge of
Advanced eye care knowledge to perform clinical duties that meet the standards of care set by the American Optometric Association
Skills in
Communicate clearly and respectfully through oral and written communication.
Leadership.
Teamwork.
Problem solving.
Conflict resolution.
Ability to
Plan, organize, and prioritize to meet deadlines.
Travel Required
Field travel may require lifting of equipment in totes which may weigh up to 50 pounds each.
Field travel may require travel by jet, small aircraft, or ferry.
Required Certifications:
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!
Skills Required
- Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) with a current unrestricted Alaska Optometry license
- BLS within 3 months of start date
- Completion of Optometric Residency or Fellowship or 2 years of clinical optometry experience
What We Do
For nearly 50 years, SEARHC has provided high-quality healthcare services to the residents of Southeast Alaska. Operating as an independent and nonprofit health Consortium, SEARHC provides a comprehensive range of health-related services, including primary, urgent and specialty medical care, dental services, behavioral health support, wellness programs, optometry services and more. We are dedicated to improving the health, well-being and quality of life for all people in these communities. SEARHC is committed to keeping care closer to home and making advanced medical technologies accessible to all. One of the many ways SEARHC does this is by offering specialty clinics or sending medical specialists to remote communities and facilities to care for patients who cannot travel. Established in 1975, SEARHC is one of the largest Native-run health organizations in the United States. In 1976, SEARHC contracted with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to assume management of the Community Health Aide Program. Today, SEARHC has more than 1,700 employees and operates in 27 communities throughout Southeast Alaska, including two Critical Access Hospitals.
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