Optometrist Advanced

Job description

Job responsibilities

For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.

More detail about the role

This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated Optometrist to join our expanding Ophthalmology team in North Devon. As an Advanced Optometrist, you will play a key role in delivering highquality core optometry services while also contributing to a wide range of extended clinical roles across the department.

You will work autonomously, providing expert refraction for adults and children, advanced fundus and media examinations, and specialist assessments to support Medical Contact Lens, Low Vision, Paediatric, Glaucoma and Corneal pathways. The role also includes interpreting a variety of diagnostic tests such as OCT, corneal topography, visual fields and colour vision assessments, supporting timely patient management across our Ophthalmic services.

You will contribute to glaucoma comanagement, ectasia monitoring and paediatric comanaged clinics, working closely with Orthoptists and Ophthalmologists. There are further opportunities to develop and deliver advanced skills including scleral lens fitting, paediatric contact lenses, extendedwear lens management, childrens lowvision assessments, and leading specialist clinics such as Ectasia Diagnostics.

In addition, the role offers the chance to become involved in medical retina, glaucoma, corneal, paediatric, cataract and emergency eye care pathwaysworking to consultantapproved protocols and playing an active part in multidisciplinary clinics. You will help shape the Optometry service locally as we continue to expand and develop new models of care.

This role is ideal for a clinician who is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care, enjoys collaborative working, and is keen to grow specialist skills within a supportive, forwardthinking team.

Working Pattern: Full time & Part time considered (minimum of 2 days) - working hours to be discussed at interview.

Interview Date: Thursday 7th May 2026

Pay: The salary advertised for this position reflects the Agenda for Change 2026-7 rates, inclusive of a 3.3% pay award implemented from April 2026. If you join before this date,, remuneration will be based on the 2025-6 pay bandings (Pay scales for 2025/26 | NHS Employers)

For further information please contact: Nicola Milhench - Head of Service; Optometry 01271 311714 or nicola.milhench@nhs.net

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with Priority and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

Benefits

We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.

This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we'll help you get there.

Looking after you is important to us.

We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.

If you're starting out in the NHS, you'll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.

You'll benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.

Salary is not the only financial benefit

You'll have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers.

You will also have access to other benefits including:

National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.

Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter

Car lease schemes.

The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).

Cycle to work scheme

These are just a few of the benefits available if the role is something you are interested in, we'd love to hear from you.

Person Specification

General Requirements

Essential

• See job description text above, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description

Desirable

• See job description text above, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Address

North Devon District Hospital

Raleigh Park

Barnstaple

Devon

EX31 4JB

Employer's website

https://royaldevon.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)