Ophthalmic Health Care Assistant

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust; Kemp Town Estate; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider in the UK is seeking a Health Care Assistant to support its ophthalmic team in outpatient clinics. The ideal candidate will conduct visual field tests, instill eye drops, and manage patient flow while supervising junior staff. A valid Care Certificate and at least two years of NHS experience are required. Flexibility in working arrangements can be discussed. This position encourages applications from all qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• Experience in a Band 3 Health Care Assistant role within the NHS.
• Ability to work in a confidential and non-discriminatory environment.
• Willingness to undertake visa sponsorship if eligible.

Responsibilities

• Conduct visual field tests and record vital signs.
• Assist with patient care and personal hygiene.
• Supervise junior staff and manage administrative tasks.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Empathy for patients

Education

Valid Care Certificate

Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a Band 3 Health Care Assistant role

Job description

Overview

This role supports the ophthalmic team in outpatient clinics, assisting with visual acuity, patient flow and clinical procedures. The post‑holder will conduct visual field tests, instill eye drops, perform hand‑held tonometry and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature and glucose. They will also assist with routine tasks such as venepuncture, cannulation, urinalysis and weight measurement, supervise junior staff and train new team members, and handle administrative tasks including appointment booking, patient transport and in‑department support.

Responsibilities

• Conduct visual field tests, visual acuity measurement and intra‑ocular pressure (tonometry).
• Instill eye drops and ensure correct administration during minor ophthalmic procedures.
• Record vital signs – blood pressure, temperature, blood glucose.
• Carry out routine phlebotomy, cannulation, urinalysis and weight measurement.
• Supervise junior staff and mentor new team members.
• Assist with patient care: personal hygiene, feeding, mobility and communication support, maintaining dignity and privacy.
• Maintain infection control protocols and patient comfort during procedures.
• Support patient flow and administrative duties such as booking appointments and managing transport.
• Collaborate effectively with patients, families and multidisciplinary teams.
• Adapt to evolving duties aligned with the team's needs and maintain flexibility.

Qualifications

• Valid Care Certificate from an Ofqual‑regulated awarding organisation.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a Band 3 Health Care Assistant role within the NHS.
• Previous NHS or NHS primary‑care experience; or, for internationally educated nurses, midwives or doctors, evidence of a recent acute‑hospital role and an ENIC report verifying the degree.
• DSB check and satisfactory reference.
• Ability to work in a confidential, non‑discriminatory environment.
• Excellent communication skills and empathy for patients.
• Willingness to undertake visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route where eligible.

Flexible Working

Flexible working arrangements can be discussed with the recruiting/line manager.

Legal and EEO statement

UHSussex is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation or veteran status. Veterans are encouraged to apply.