Optometrist – High-End Independent Practice
Location: Near Folkestone, Kent
Salary: 70,000 – 80,000 DOE
Hours: Full-time | Alternate Saturdays | No Sundays
Job Type: Permanent
The Opportunity
Are you an Optometrist who would love to get back to what optics should really be about – delivering excellent patient care without the pressure of rushed appointments or sales targets?
At Inspired Recruitment Group, we’re working with a well-established, high-end independent optical group looking for an Optometrist to join one of its community-focused practices near Folkestone, Kent.
Offering 45-minute testing, no dispensing responsibilities, a salary of 70,000- 80,000 and alternate Saturdays, this is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys building genuine relationships with patients and having the time to provide the level of care they deserve.
The practice is looking for someone who wants to become a valued, long-term member of the team and make a real difference within the local community.
The Practice
This is a beautiful, modern independent practice that has built an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality, personalised eye care.
Very much at the heart of its local community, the practice has a loyal patient base, with many patients returning year after year. Building trust, getting to know patients and providing continuity of care are all incredibly important here.
As part of an established and growing independent group, there is a strong emphasis on clinical excellence, investing in modern technology and creating a welcoming environment for both patients and staff.
Practice offers:
- ” A modern, well-equipped testing room.
- ” OCT and advanced retinal imaging.
- ” Dry Eye Clinic / Eye Spa.
- ” Glaucoma screening and diabetic eye care.
- ” Contact lens services.
- ” A supportive, patient-first environment.
- ” Convenient nearby parking.
This is an independent where quality of care genuinely comes before quantity.
The Role
You’ll be taking over from a long-standing Optometrist who was a much-loved member of the practice before relocating.
The team is now looking for someone who can continue building on those established patient relationships while bringing their own personality, clinical knowledge and passion for optics to the role.
Responsibilities
- ” Conducting comprehensive eye examinations with 45-minute appointments.
- ” Delivering excellent clinical care and tailored advice.
- ” Using modern diagnostic technology to support patient outcomes.
- ” Building lasting relationships with patients and their families.
- ” Supporting the practice’s specialist clinical services.
- ” Becoming an active and approachable member of the local community.
- ” Working closely with colleagues to maintain the practice’s excellent reputation.
There are no dispensing responsibilities, allowing you to focus your time and attention on the clinical side of optics.
About You
We’re looking for a GOC-registered Optometrist who genuinely enjoys their profession and takes pride in providing exceptional patient care.
Ideally, you’ll bring some post-qualification experience, although less experienced Optometrists with the right approach and attitude will absolutely be considered.
Qualities
- ” Enjoys taking the time to get to know patients.
- ” Has a genuine passion for clinical optics and patient care.
- ” Is friendly, approachable and a natural relationship builder.
- ” Appreciates the benefits of working within an independent environment.
- ” Enjoys being part of a close-knit, community-focused practice.
- ” Is looking for a long‑term opportunity where they can really feel part of something.
Above all, personality and patient care are incredibly important. The practice isn’t simply looking to fill a vacancy; they want someone who will become a valued part of the team and community.
Salary & Benefits
- ” 70,000- 80,000 basic salary, depending on experience.
- ” Bonus potential, negotiable as part of the package.
- ” Full-time, five days per week.
- ” Alternate Saturdays, with an early 1 pm finish.
- ” No Sunday working.
- ” Weekday hours: 9 am – 5.30 pm.
- ” 45-minute eye examinations.
- ” No dispensing responsibilities.
- ” Statutory annual leave plus bank holidays.
- ” Practice closed between Christmas and New Year.
- ” Modern clinical equipment and specialist services.
- ” Supportive, high-end independent environment.
- ” Convenient nearby parking.
Why Join?
It’s not every day you find an independent offering this level of salary alongside genuinely relaxed testing times and the freedom to focus on patient care.
What makes this opportunity particularly appealing is the practice itself. It’s somewhere patients are known by name, relationships matter and the Optometrist plays a genuinely important role within the community.
If you’re feeling restricted by the commercial pressures of high street optics, or simply want to work somewhere that gives you the time and freedom to do your job properly, this could be well worth exploring.
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Optometrist in Folkestone employer: Inspired Selections
Inspired Selections is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the picturesque South Wales Valleys. With a strong emphasis on training and development, employees can expect to grow their skills in optical dispensing while enjoying competitive salaries and flexible working hours. The supportive team environment ensures that every Optical Assistant feels valued and empowered to provide exceptional customer care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optometrist in Folkestone
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Inspired Selections often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Inspired Selections
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Inspired Selections. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Inspired Selections.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Inspired Selections.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Inspired Selections.
