Apply to Optometrist (Relief, Contract or Locum)

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most

Looking for more than just another clinic assignment?

Join a growing optical program delivering essential eye care services across Northern Canada. As an Optometrist with The North West Company, you'll practice with purpose, helping improve access to vision care in communities where your expertise can make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Whether you're seeking occasional relief work, recurring clinic assignments, or longer-term contract opportunities, we provide the support, logistics, and patient demand that allow you to focus on what you do best: caring for patients.

Why Optometrists Choose Us

Meaningful Clinical Work

Provide comprehensive eye care services in communities where access to care can be limited and where your work makes a genuine difference in patients' lives.

Established Patient Demand

Work in well-organized clinics with strong community engagement and high patient utilization, allowing you to maximize your clinical time.

Full Travel and Logistics Support

We coordinate travel, accommodations, scheduling, and clinic logistics so you can focus on patient care rather than administrative details.

Professional Independence

Practice autonomously while being supported by experienced operational, optical, and pharmacy teams.

Long-Term Opportunities

Many providers enjoy ongoing clinic assignments and the opportunity to build lasting relationships with patients and communities.

What We Offer:

Competitive compensation
Travel and accommodation provided
Flexible contract and relief opportunities
Coordinated scheduling and logistical support
Established patient demand
Modern equipment and clinic resources
Dedicated Optical and Pharmacy support teams
Professional autonomy with operational support
Opportunity to contribute to expanding access to vision care across Northern Canada

📌Note: Compensation, travel arrangements, and assignment schedules may vary based on clinic location and contract type.

Your Impact

Vision care changes lives.

As an Optometrist, you will help patients maintain their independence, succeed in school and work, and improve their overall quality of life through access to high-quality eye care services.

Many communities face barriers to accessing healthcare. Your expertise will help reduce those barriers while supporting healthier, stronger communities.

What You’ll Do:

Conduct comprehensive eye examinations for patients of all ages
Diagnose, manage, and monitor ocular health conditions
Prescribe corrective lenses and recommend treatment options
Educate patients on vision health and preventative care
Maintain accurate clinical documentation and patient records
Collaborate with Opticians and healthcare providers to deliver exceptional patient care
Support continuity of care through recurring clinic services
Contribute to community outreach and patient education initiatives

What We’re Looking For

Required

Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree
Licensed and in good standing with a Canadian regulatory authority
Eligible for licensure in the jurisdictions served by The North West Company
Strong clinical and patient care skills
Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
Ability to work independently and confidently in community-based practice settings

Preferred

Experience working in rural or remote healthcare environments
Experience serving Indigenous, northern, or underserved populations
Commitment to culturally respectful, patient-centered care
Interest in supporting healthcare access in communities with limited local services

About The North West Company

The North West Company is a trusted retailer serving communities across Northern Canada, Alaska, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean. Through our Pharmacy and Optical operations, we are committed to improving access to essential healthcare services and supporting the well-being of the communities we serve.

A Career With Purpose

This is an opportunity to combine professional fulfillment with meaningful community impact.

Join a team dedicated to improving access to vision care, supporting underserved communities, and helping patients receive the care they deserve.

If you're looking for rewarding clinical work, strong operational support, and the opportunity to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today!

Northern and NorthMart stores are owned and operated by The North West Company.
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Dynamic Duo Application

Want to join as a pair? We are always willing to consider enthusiastic applicants who want to join us as a team. If you’re friends, siblings, spouses or just two colleagues who get along really well, come work and explore a new community together!

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Job Application Questionnaire

How many years of experience do you have related to the job description? *

Please ensure that your experience is reflected in your resume. If not, you can use the "Additional Info" question at the end of this application to add more details.

What are your base compensation expectations? *

Do you currently work or have you previously worked at The North West Company or any subsidiaries? *

Some communities are eligible to bring a maximum of 2 pets (cats and dogs). How many pets do you hope to bring with you? *

This role may require frequent heavy lifting. Can you continuously lift 50lbs without any accommodations? *

YesNo

If you are not local to the location you are applying for, are you willing and able to relocate to a small rural northern community that we operate in? *

Is sponsorship required in order for you to legally work for an employer in Canada? *

You must be legally entitled to work for any employer in Canada for the job start date.

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense that has not been pardoned or suspended, or do you believe that you would not pass a vulnerable sector check? *

A criminal record check is required for employment and includes past criminal convictions that have not been pardoned or suspended, as well as the candidate's ability to pass a vulnerable sector check for positions working with vulnerable individuals. These results will be considered in the context of the specific job and the applicant's qualifications.

For positions requiring financial management, a credit check may be required as a condition of employment. Do you consent to a credit check if it is required for this position? *

An employment search will be recorded as a “soft touch” and is not used in calculating credit scores.

For any given reason, if you are not selected for this position, are you open to opportunities that we believe may be a good fit? *

How did you hear about this job opportunity? *

Additional Info?

This can be used to add any additional information that would be relevant to your application.

Accuracy of Application

I understand that any misrepresentation or omission of any information may result in my disqualification from consideration for employment or if employed my dismissal for just cause. Answering no will automatically remove me from consideration. *

It is very important to use the same email address that you used during your initial application.

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The North West Company: Northern/NorthMart Acknowledgment Form

I understand that changes to the parameters I have provided may affect The North West Company's ability to offer me employment. These changes could be related to finding suitable communities based on housing, schooling, and other requirements.

Email *

Use the same email address you used in your initial application to ensure your answers are associated with your profile. If unsure, refer to the email sent to you.

Relocation Information

Accurate relocation information is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Please provide the following details related to your relocation:

Number and relation of adults immediately relocating with you (excluding yourself). Please state their name(s), relationship to you, and their date(s) of birth. *

Please provide the number of adults who will be relocating with you, including their relationship to you and their dates of birth. This information helps us plan your move effectively, but please be aware that due to limitations in housing and community services, we may not always be able to accommodate all requests. It's essential that these details are clearly explained and discussed during your interviews with the Director, Store Operations, to ensure all aspects of your relocation are thoroughly understood and planned for.

If you are relocating with children who are minors, please specify the total number, their date(s) of birth, and current school grade(s) from the date of this acknowledgement form: *

Include details about any minor children accompanying you in the relocation, such as their ages and current school grades. Due to the unique challenges in the communities we serve, such as limited schooling options and specific educational programs, it's crucial that these details are thoroughly discussed with the Director, Store Operations, during your interviews. Our goal is to ensure that we can provide the necessary support, but please be aware that not all requests may be accommodated due to these limitations.

Who may be relocating with you in the future? Please state their name(s), relationship to you, their date(s) of birth, and when you are hoping they will relocate with you. *

Please note that before anyone can relocate with you, approvals are required due to limited housing availability and other resource constraints in remote Northern Canada. While you may express your hope for someone to join you, this is only possible with prior planning and approval. These details should be clearly discussed with the Director, Store Operations, during your interviews. Please do not assume automatic approval.

Number of pets (maximum 2) you will be relocating with (Specify type – e.g., dog, cat) and specify if they are vaccinated, spayed/neutered: *

By acknowledging this section, you agree to be responsible for all costs associated with relocating pets, including airfare and appropriate transportation kennels. Additionally, please note that pets restricted or banned by airlines cannot be transported to the communities we serve, regardless of whether travel is by air or other means. It is essential to verify these restrictions before planning your move.

Employment Terms and Compliance Acknowledgments

This section requires your acknowledgment of key employment conditions at The North West Company. By signing, you confirm your understanding and agreement with these terms.

I acknowledge and agree that, due to the company's extensive operations, my work location may change in line with business needs, including transfers across Canada. *

Locations cannot be guaranteed, however, we will do our best to accommodate preferences where possible. This statement ensures you are aware of and agree to the potential mobility requirements inherent in your role, acknowledging that changes may be necessary due to business needs.

I acknowledge and agree that, due to the nature of operations at The North West Company, my working hours may exceed standard hours and could range from 50+ hours/week, or potentially more, depending on operational requirements. *

This acknowledgment ensures you are informed about and prepared for the possibility of extended working hours as necessitated by business demands. It acknowledges that your role may require a flexible approach to working hours, including periods of increased workload.

Are you willing to share accommodations during the training period due to housing constraints at training locations? *

Due to limited housing availability in some of our locations, The North West Company may require candidates to share accommodations during the training period. This measure helps us effectively manage resources and ensure a comfortable stay for all participants. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you require private accommodation without sharing during training, please discuss this need during your interview with your recruiter and the Director, Store Operations. Such requests will be considered based on the availability of alternative housing options.

Are you willing to share accommodations after graduation, during regular operations, due to housing constraints? *

After graduation, some locations may still require employees to share accommodations due to ongoing housing constraints. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure the comfort of all employees. If you require private accommodation without sharing after graduation, please discuss this during your interview with your recruiter and the Director, Store Operations. Such requests will be considered based on the availability of alternative housing options.

I acknowledge that I have a current Provincial Health Card for the province I am working in, and I agree to provide proof of this coverage.

YesNo

If no and I do not have provincial health care coverage, I agree to join the Welcome Health Plan offered by The North West Company.

I acknowledge and agree that I will comply with the dry community bylaws where applicable. *

In some of the communities we serve, local bylaws designate the area as a 'dry community,' where the possession and use of alcohol and marijuana are prohibited. This local legislation takes precedence over national or regional laws where these substances might otherwise be legal. By agreeing to this policy, you acknowledge your responsibility to adhere to these specific local regulations when serving in such communities. Failure to comply with these bylaws can lead to disciplinary actions, including termination of employment.

Are you able to lift objects heavier than 50lbs as part of your job duties? *

This question helps us understand your physical capabilities related to job duties that may involve heavy lifting. Select 'Yes' if you can lift more than 50lbs without assistance, 'No' if you are unable, and 'With accommodation' if you can perform this task with reasonable accommodations. Your response ensures we align job responsibilities with your capabilities while adhering to health and safety standards.

I acknowledge that The North West Company operates in communities with limited access to medical services. In some cases, individuals may need to be medivacced out of the community if medical conditions exceed the capabilities of local nursing stations. *

This acknowledgment is crucial for employees to comprehend the unique medical circumstances in the communities where The North West Company operates. In addition to limited access to medical services, employees should be aware that in cases where local nursing stations cannot address certain medical conditions, individuals may require medivac services to access further medical treatment outside the community. You are encouraged to carefully evaluate whether the unique healthcare circumstances in remote communities align with your personal needs and medical requirements. By understanding the limitations of medical services and considering this before accepting a job offer, you can ensure a better fit and quality of life for yourself or anyone relocating with

Relocation Understanding

In order to adapt to life in the North, it's important to have flexibility and an open mindset. Please acknowledge the following statements related to your relocation understanding.

I recognize that relocating to the North is a significant change, bringing unique challenges and lifestyle shifts different from the South. *

This statement is an acknowledgment of the substantial adjustments and unique conditions that come with moving to the North. It's important to consider these differences in lifestyle and environment compared to the South, as they can impact your daily life and well-being.

I am fully aware that childcare options in the North are extremely limited. If I am relocating with dependents, I commit to ensuring appropriate care arrangements and understand that it is not acceptable to leave dependents at home without proper care. *

Please ensure that you have arranged appropriate care for your dependents, as childcare options in the North are extremely limited. It is crucial that dependents are not left at home without proper supervision. This commitment is essential for your relocation to proceed smoothly.

Vacation/Time Off and Relocation Commitments

Your understanding of these empowering policies and relocation commitments is pivotal for a successful journey with The North West Company. By acknowledging these commitments and policies, including relocation as needed and assigned, you play a significant role in our collective effort to create vibrant and thriving communities.

I acknowledge that I must have completed 6 months of employment before taking vacation time or unpaid time-off. *

This acknowledges your understanding of the company policy regarding vacation and unpaid time-off. You agree that you need to complete a minimum of 6 months in your role before you are eligible for these benefits.

I understand that all vacation or leave requests must be submitted to my manager for approval prior to booking any travel. *

This statement confirms that you are aware of the company's procedure for vacation or leave. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining your manager's approval before making any travel arrangements to ensure that your absence aligns with business needs and staffing requirements.

Drivers License Information (if applicable)

This section collects essential information about your driver's license for management-level positions. It covers the type and tenure of your license and your responsibility to comply with provincial licensing laws in your training and post-training locations. Understanding and adherence to these requirements are crucial for roles involving driving or travel.

What type of driver's license do you currently hold? *

If you do not have a license, please select "N/A - No License" in each question. Please select the category that best describes your current driver's license. This information is important for understanding your driving qualifications and any restrictions that might apply, especially for management-level positions that require driving or travel as part of the role.

Please specify any restrictions on your driver's license, if applicable. *

Please select from the dropdown to indicate if your driver's license has any specific restrictions. If your license has no restrictions, choose the 'No Restrictions' option. If you do not have a driver's license, please select 'N/A - No License'. This information is important for understanding your driving capabilities and potential limitations, particularly for roles that involve driving or travel.

Immigration and Permanent Residency Support

We appreciate your interest in joining The North West Company. Please note that while we value the diverse perspectives and skills that international candidates bring to our team, we do not guarantee support for Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), permanent residency (PR), or work permit applications for new candidates.

I understand that while The North West Company can provide employment verification letters, it does not sponsor or provide assistance with LMIA, PR applications, or work permits. Managing these are my responsibility. *

Due to operational requirements, employees must be mobile and ready to be assigned to any community where the business needs arise. This flexibility is essential for meeting the dynamic needs of our various locations and is a key reason why The North West Company does not sponsor or guarantee specific work locations for LMIA, PR, or work permits.

Acknowledgment of Impact of Personal Information Changes on Employment Opportunities

Consistency and commitment are key. Any changes in the information you provide can have broader implications, not just for your potential employment but also for our operational planning and resource allocation. It's vital to understand the significance of the details you provide.

Acknowledged By: *

Please enter in your full name

I acknowledge that changes in my information, such as housing or schooling, may impact my employment with The North West Company due to resource and community constraints. *

This statement emphasizes the importance of accurately understanding and communicating your housing, schooling, or other personal requirements. Changes in your situation may impact your employment with The North West Company due to limited resources and community constraints. It is better to thoroughly assess your needs and wait to proceed to the next step than to move forward with uncertainties that may lead to changes. If the company cannot accommodate your revised needs, it may result in a reevaluation or termination of your employment. Consider carefully any changes in your personal situation that could affect your ability to continue under the initial terms of employment.