Optometrist Duties and Responsibilities: An optometrist is responsible for examining the eyes. They can prescribe eyeglasses and contact lens if needed. Salary: $106,140 per year, $51.03 per hour Education: You need to complete a Doctor of Optometry degree. You also need to get a license to practice in a particular state. The doctor of optometry program last about 4 years and students that enter have a bachelor's degree. Demand or Need for this particular career: Doctoral or Professional degree Reflection: I would like to be an optometrist because my brother has eye issues and i will like to help him out.