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- Tasks: Join our Ophthalmology team to deliver core optometry services and advanced clinical roles.
- Company: Be part of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and extensive staff discounts.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to innovation and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in patient care while developing your specialist skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Optometrist with a passion for patient care and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 49387 - 56515 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has become available for an Optometrist to join our expanding Ophthalmology team. Based primarily in North Devon, the post-holder will deliver core optometry services and undertake a range of extended roles within the optometry service. This is a fantastic chance to be part of a forward-thinking, supportive, and growing multi-disciplinary team as we continue to develop and enhance services for our patients.
The post-holder will provide high-quality clinical support to Ophthalmology clinics at North Devon District Hospital, Bideford Hospital, South Molton Eye Clinic, and other community locations as required. Working as an autonomous practitioner, the successful candidate will adhere to professional and regulatory standards set by the College of Optometrists, the General Optical Council, and Trust policies, contributing to safe, effective, and patient-centred care.
This role offers the chance to be involved in service development, extended clinical practice, and a variety of sub-specialty clinics, with opportunities to shape pathways and influence how care is delivered across the region. You will join a friendly, collaborative team committed to innovation, shared learning, and supporting career progression.
About the Role: This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated Optometrist to join our expanding Ophthalmology team in North Devon. As an Advanced Optometrist, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality core optometry services while also contributing to a wide range of extended clinical roles across the department.
You will work autonomously, providing expert refraction for adults and children, advanced fundus and media examinations, and specialist assessments to support Medical Contact Lens, Low Vision, Paediatric, Glaucoma and Corneal pathways. The role also includes interpreting a variety of diagnostic tests such as OCT, corneal topography, visual fields and colour vision assessments, supporting timely patient management across our Ophthalmic services.
You will contribute to glaucoma co-management, ectasia monitoring and paediatric co-managed clinics, working closely with Orthoptists and Ophthalmologists. There are further opportunities to develop and deliver advanced skills including scleral lens fitting, paediatric contact lenses, extended-wear lens management, children’s low-vision assessments, and leading specialist clinics such as Ectasia Diagnostics.
In addition, the role offers the chance to become involved in medical retina, glaucoma, corneal, paediatric, cataract and emergency eye care pathways—working to consultant-approved protocols and playing an active part in multidisciplinary clinics. You will help shape the Optometry service locally as we continue to expand and develop new models of care.
This role is ideal for a clinician who is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care, enjoys collaborative working, and is keen to grow specialist skills within a supportive, forward-thinking team.
Working Pattern: Full time & Part time considered (minimum of 2 days) - working hours to be discussed at interview.
Interview Date: Thursday 7th May 2026
Pay: The salary advertised for this position reflects the Agenda for Change 2026-7 rates, inclusive of a 3.3% pay award implemented from April 2026. If you join before this date, remuneration will be based on the 2025-6 pay bandings.
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities.
We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us: Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes.
We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC). Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do. It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Looking after you is important to us. We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies. If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups. We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.
This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
Salary is not the only financial benefit. You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
- Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter.
- Car lease schemes.
- The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
- Cycle to work scheme.
These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.
Salary Band 7: £49,387 - £56,515 per annum pro rata
Frequency: Annual
Vacancy Reference: 185-5223-12828
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 26 April, 2026
Job Category: Allied Health Professional
Staff Group: Allied Health Professionals
Optometrist Advanced in Barnstaple employer: Rdehospital
Contact Detail:
Rdehospital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Optometrist Advanced in Barnstaple
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the optometry field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to optometry. Think about how you can showcase your skills in delivering high-quality patient care and working collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—focus on places that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for opportunities at the Royal Devon, where you can be part of a supportive and innovative team!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Optometrist Advanced in Barnstaple
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Optometrist role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially those related to core optometry services and extended roles.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for patient care and collaborative working shine through in your application. We want to see that you're not just qualified, but genuinely excited about being part of our forward-thinking team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. This helps us quickly understand your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rdehospital
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest optometry practices and guidelines set by the College of Optometrists and the General Optical Council. Familiarise yourself with the specific services offered at the hospitals and clinics you'll be working at, so you can confidently discuss how your skills align with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to work autonomously and deliver high-quality patient care. Highlight any experience you have with advanced clinical practices, such as glaucoma co-management or paediatric assessments, as these will be key in this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the team dynamics, opportunities for professional development, and how the department is evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
The Royal Devon values diversity and inclusivity, so don’t hesitate to let your personality shine through. Share your passion for optometry and patient care, and express how you can contribute to their forward-thinking, collaborative environment. Authenticity goes a long way!