Ophthalmic Technician

University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust; Bristol; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS trust is seeking an Ophthalmic Technician to support clinical services. The role involves patient care, data entry, and performing basic imaging tests. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and be willing to travel across various locations. Join a diverse team committed to high standards of care.

Qualifications

• Extensive ophthalmic care experience or relevant A levels/GCSEs.
• Fluent English communication skills.
• Experience dealing with the public.

Responsibilities

• Support ophthalmic imaging and outpatient teams.
• Perform clinical duties such as visual field testing and patient support.

Skills

Empathetic communication

Excellent computer skills

Problem-solving abilities

Good presentation

Accuracy

Hand-eye coordination

Education

A level in a science subject (Grade C or above)

Five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English, Maths, and a science subject

Job description

As an organisation, we recognise the value of a healthy work-life balance. When applying, speak to us about how we might accommodate flexible working so your work life fits around your home life.

We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates, as they are under-represented within the Trust.

About the Role

As an Ophthalmic Technician, you will support the ophthalmic imaging and outpatient teams to ensure the smooth running of our clinical services. Your responsibilities will include data entry, eyesight and visual field testing, and providing personal care and support to patients. You will prepare patients for investigations, perform basic imaging tests, and generate reports for review by clinical staff.

You will receive training at Bristol Eye Hospital, and upon achieving relevant competencies, you will attend peripheral clinics and hospital sites. Therefore, a willingness to travel and work across various locations, including weekends when required, is essential.

You must communicate empathetically with patients, relatives, and carers, including those with barriers such as learning difficulties, language, hearing difficulties, or visual impairments, as well as children and infants. Your role is to help deliver high standards of ophthalmic and personal care, ensuring efficient clinic operations.

Note

This advert may close early if sufficient applications are received. Previous applicants need not re-apply.

Main Duties

1. Perform clinical duties such as assisting with intravitreal injections, pachymetry, HRT, visual field testing, blood glucose testing, irrigation, ECG recording, and research, following appropriate training.
2. Understand and undertake tasks carried out by assistant ophthalmic and vision scientists.

About Our Organisation

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) is a leading NHS trust with over 13,000 staff, serving a population of more than 500,000 across South West England. Rated 'Good' by the CQC, we are committed to delivering excellent care, advancing research, and fostering innovation. Our hospitals are located in Bristol and Weston, offering a vibrant city and seaside lifestyle. We are dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable groups and promoting diversity in our workforce.

Additional Information

For detailed job responsibilities and person specifications, please refer to the attached job description document.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Training

• Extensive ophthalmic care experience or at least one A level in a science subject (Grade C or above).
• Alternatively, five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English, Maths, and a science subject.

Language and Competency

• Fluent English communication skills.
• Respect for diversity, recognition of success, and ability to work collaboratively.

Knowledge and Experience

• Experience dealing with the public.
• Knowledge of ophthalmic procedures, systems, and NHS protocols.
• Understanding of patient confidentiality and health and safety issues.
• Experience with high-volume activity and medical equipment.

Skills and Abilities

• Excellent computer skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Good presentation, accuracy, and hand-eye coordination.
• Empathetic communication with patients and carers.
• Willingness to travel and work weekends if necessary.

We invite you to join us and contribute to our future success. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to a diverse workforce that reflects our community's richness. We also prioritize staff wellbeing, development, and safeguarding.