Ophthalmic Technician

NHS; England; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare provider in the UK seeks a Band 3 Ophthalmic Technician to be an integral member of the ophthalmology team. The technician will deliver patient-centred diagnostic services, perform various ophthalmic tests, and ensure patient safety and dignity during examinations. Essential qualifications include a GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths, along with good communication and basic IT skills. This permanent role offers a competitive salary ranging from £24,937 to £26,598 per year pro rata.

Qualifications

• Experience working as part of a team in a health or social care environment.
• Willing to undertake role-specific training and competencies.
• Awareness of NHS values and patient-centred care.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients, verify identity, prepare them for examinations.
• Perform a wide range of ophthalmic diagnostic tests and imaging.
• Accurately document and upload results to electronic patient records.
• Assist with patient mobility, positioning, and comfort.

Skills

Basic IT skills

Good verbal and written communication skills

Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively

Education

GCSE or equivalent, including English and Maths

Tools

Fundus camera

Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

Visual field machine

Job description

Job Summary

The Band 3 Ophthalmic Technician is an integral member of the ophthalmology team, responsible for delivering high-quality patient-centred diagnostic services to support the assessment and management of patients with a range of eye conditions. The post holder performs a variety of ophthalmic diagnostic tests—visual acuity measurement, intraocular pressure checks, visual field screening, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT)—and assists patients throughout examinations and procedures, ensuring safety, comfort and dignity. The role involves working independently and collaboratively within clinics, technician-led clinics and procedural rooms, with a strong focus on clinical governance, infection control and patient safety.

Responsibilities

• Greet patients, verify and confirm identity, and prepare them for clinical examinations or procedures.
• Explain tests and procedures clearly, obtain informed consent and reduce patient anxiety.
• Assist with patient mobility, positioning and comfort during procedures.
• Perform a wide range of ophthalmic diagnostic tests and imaging:
  • Visual acuity testing
  • Intraocular pressure measurement
  • Visual field testing
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • Fundus photography
• Accurately document and upload results to electronic patient records.
• Support the wider multi‑professional team during procedures such as minor operations and intravitreal injections.
• Prepare and maintain clinical rooms and equipment according to infection control standards.
• Administer eye drops (dilating or anaesthetic) in line with local policy after training and competency assessment.
• Deliver care in a respectful, compassionate and dignified manner, responding sensitively to patients' emotional, physical and cultural needs.
• Act as a point of contact for patients, providing reassurance and answering basic queries.
• Communicate clearly with colleagues, reporting any concerns or abnormal findings to senior staff promptly.
• Open and close clinics, ensuring smooth operation.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and contribute to service improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Essential: General education—GCSE or equivalent, including English and Maths.
• Essential: Willing to undertake role‑specific training and competencies.
• Desirable: Ophthalmic/Healthcare (Care Certificate) related qualification or training.

Person Specification

• Essential Knowledge
  • Experience working as part of a team in a health or social care environment.
• Desirable Knowledge
  • Awareness of NHS values and patient‑centred care.
  • Previous experience in an ophthalmology or diagnostic clinical setting.
• Essential Skills
  • Basic IT skills and ability to use electronic systems.
  • Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Desirable Skills
  • Confidence in using diagnostic or imaging equipment (e.g. fundus camera, OCT, visual field machine).

Location and Contract Details

Queen Mary’s Hospital, Frognal Ave, Sidcup, DA14 6LF
Band 3 – Permanent – Full‑time, Part‑time – Salary £24,937 to £26,598 a year pro rata including high cost area.

Application Information

Date posted: 19 December 2025
Reference number: 213‑DivisionC‑7685215

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) check is required for any former convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from skilled worker sponsors seeking to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information, visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Employer Details

King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Website: https://www.kch.nhs.uk/