Optometry Technician, Band 3

NHS; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking healthcare provider as an Optometry Technician. This part-time role involves performing essential visual field tests and OCT scans to aid in patient diagnosis within a dynamic outpatient setting. You'll work closely with a supportive team, contributing to the smooth operation of the optometry service while ensuring compassionate care for patients, many of whom may be elderly or frail. With full training provided, this is an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their career in a collaborative environment that values communication and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Experience in healthcare or clinical environment preferred.
• Training or competency on imaging or visual field equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform visual field tests and OCT scans for patient diagnosis.
• Support other clinical activities in the optometry service.

Skills

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

IT Skills

Empathy

Education

GSCE level C in English and Maths

Recognised health care qualification (e.g., NVQ)

Tools

Humphrey Visual Field Analyser

OCT Imaging Equipment

Job description

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Optometry Technician, Band 3 (15 hours a week)

We are looking for an individual with excellent communication skills, a compassionate approach and ability to pay close attention to details. You will need to be a team player as you will be part of a multidisciplinary team, working to support the imaging clinical service of a busy outpatient department. Previous experience in the NHS or a similar role within an ophthalmology department or optometry setting is preferable but not essential and full training is provided.

Additional working pattern details: Monday to Friday 8.30 to 5

Main duties of the job

The primary role of an Optometry Technician is to perform visual field tests and Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans to assist in the diagnosis and management of patients attending Ophthalmology and Optometry outpatients clinics. The role may also include measuring other ocular parameters including visual acuity and corneal topography. The successful candidate can also play a role in supporting other clinical activities and contribute to the smooth running of the optometry service

About us

We are looking for a part time (2 days per week) technician to join our large team of over 20 optometrists, 8 optometry technicians and administrators to work within a busy and dynamic ophthalmology outpatients department. Although a large team that works across two acute sites and peripheral clinics, we are a close and supportive team who foster a friendly work environment.

Job responsibilities

Normal working hours are 8.30am to 5pm Monday- to Friday but there may be the opportunity for additional weekend working.

The majority of clinics are held in the main Ophthalmology Departments at Cheltenham General and Gloucestershire Royal Hospitals

The work mainly consists of undertaking visual field assessments with a Humphrey Visual field Analyser, and optic disc and macular OCT imaging to support glaucoma and medical retina ophthalmology and optometry clinics. The role involves working with a range of patients, many of whom will be elderly and/or frail so good communication and empathy are essential qualities.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• GSCE level c (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• A recognised health care qualification (eg NVQ)
• Training or competency on imaging or visual field equipment

Experience

• Experience working in healthcare or clinical environment
• Previous experience in optometry or ophthalmology setting
• Experience working with public in health or social care environment
• Experience working independently with minimal supervision

Knowledge/skills

• Competent level of IT skills and interest in technical medical equipment
• Good communication skills with patients and other staff members
• Caring and considerate approach to elderly, frail or visually impaired patients
• Demonstrates attention to detail, accuracy and precision in work
• Knowledge of ophthalmic clinical assessment

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 name

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

£24,625 to £25,674 a year(pa pro rata if part-time)