Job summary
This post is an ideal opportunity for an enthusiastic specialist optometrist to join our large, friendly and supportive team.

Manchester Royal Eye Hospital is a leading teaching hospital and centre of excellence for ophthalmic care, with around 50 consultant ophthalmologists working in a range of ophthalmic sub-specialities. The optometry team consists of over 40 optometrists who work within the multi-disciplinary team to deliver outpatient care. Core optometry services include refraction, complex medical contact lens management and low vision rehabilitation. Specialist optometrists contribute extensively towards clinical activity by way of extended roles in cataract, glaucoma, macular treatment, diabetes, corneal, paediatric and acute services.

Optometrists also have the opportunity to undertake research, clinical audit and engage in teaching. The department has strong links with optometry and medicine at the University of Manchester. We have a strong track record of supporting professional development opportunities.

Previous hospital optometry experience is desirable and extensive clinical experience is essential. You must be registered with the GOC and hold a degree in Optometry.

Applications for part time positions may be considered, some Saturday work will be required.

Main duties of the job
Qualified to BSc in ophthalmic optics or optometry, with significant clinical experience, you will bring advanced theoretical knowledge in ocular pathology, together with considerable clinical experience in the various ophthalmological subspecialties.

You'll be working in a fast-moving environment where experience, strength of character and co-operation really matter. But you'll take all this in your stride and embody our values as you work with pride, respect, empathy, consideration, compassion and dignity.

• Undertake highly specialist clinical activity requiring extensive knowledge, experience and expertise.
• Participate in the critical analysis of the quality of care within Optometry Services.
• To work closely with the Principal and Lead Optometrists to ensure that professional standards are achieved and always maintained.
• To assist the Principal and Lead Optometrists in the provision of training for pre-registration optometrists, other optometrists and personnel involved in Optometry and to contribute to the delivery of optometry teaching programs to optometry, visiting optometrists and medical undergraduate students at MREH.
• To contribute to clinical research programmes in collaboration with the Department of Ophthalmology and Department of Optometry at the University of Manchester.

About us
Join Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and become part of a 30,000 plus strong team, delivering exceptional care to over 1 million people every year. As the largest provider of specialist services, and our Oxford Road Campus in Manchester, the largest health academic campus in Europe, we are forward-thinking, committed to clinical excellence and driven to deliver innovation, and continuous improvement.

Whether you're beginning your career or taking the next step, MFT offers a stimulating and supportive environment where your contribution truly matters. Our Hive Electronic Patient Record system enables safer, smarter, and more efficient ways of working - empowering you to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients.

You'll be part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary community, working alongside professionals from a wide range of clinical backgrounds. Together, we push boundaries, share knowledge, and deliver care that transforms lives.

At MFT, you'll find a workplace where everyone is respected, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We offer clear clinical pathways for professional development, helping you grow your skills and achieve your ambitions.

Your journey at MFT is more than a job - it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact. We'll support you as you shape the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.

Details
Pay scheme: Agenda for change
Band: Band 7
Salary: £49,387 to £56,515 a year per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Fixed term, 12 months
Working pattern: Full-time
Closing date: 22 October 2026

Person Specification
Essential

• Registration with the General Optical Council
• Member or fellow of the College of Optometrists
• BSc Ophthalmic Optics or Optometry
• Ability to competently undertake highly specialist clinical extended roles
• Experience working with visually impaired patients and others with learning disabilities
• Significant clinical experience
• Broad understanding of the optometry profession, primary/secondary care interface, NHS service provision

Desirable

• Registered College of Optometrists supervisor for pre-registration optometrist training posts as required by the GOC
• Post-graduate optometric qualifications e.g. College of Optometrists certificates/higher certificates/diploma/IP etc
• Sound knowledge of ocular therapeutics
• Teaching training and education
• Experience of teaching at undergraduate and post graduate level and supervision of trainee optometrists

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.

Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.

UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website.

Employer contact details
Principal Optometrist: Rachael Finch, Rachael.Finch@mft.nhs.uk, 01612765244

MFT is committed to promoting equality of opportunity, celebrating and valuing diversity and eliminating any form of unlawful discrimination across our workforce. All individuals regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation are encouraged to apply for this post.