How much does an orthoptist earn?
Orthoptists diagnose and treat disorders of binocular vision, strabismus and amblyopia – in ophthalmology practices, clinics and specialised centres. Training is usually a three-year school-based programme with practical placements. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements (e.g. TVöD), employer and specialisation. As a guide, qualified orthoptists in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,050–€3,650 gross per month; in training around €880–€1,180 is typical where a training allowance is paid.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. Actual pay depends on employer, region, collective agreement, experience, specialisation and working-time model and is not a guarantee. The training column refers to school-based training phases with pay or typical training/internship allowances – a training allowance is not paid everywhere.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
Orthoptists work closely with ophthalmology: in practices, clinics and specialist outpatient units they combine diagnostics, therapy and counselling around binocular vision, strabismus and amblyopia – often with children, but also with adults after neurological disease or injury.
- Systematically examine binocular vision, strabismus and amblyopia: take history and assess visual acuity, alignment, motility and fixation.
- Plan and deliver orthoptic therapies and exercises – from occlusion and fusion training to pre- and postoperative care.
- Perform functional tests such as perimetry and stereoacuity and document findings.
- Advise parents, relatives and patients; explain therapy plans and track progress.
- Coordinate with ophthalmologists and the multiprofessional team – from surgical indication to follow-up.
- Help shape appointments, documentation and quality assurance carefully in practices and clinics.
