Job Title: Optometrist – Location: Gateshead – Employment Type: Part‑time – Contract Type: Permanent – Shift Pattern: Days – Hours per Week: 8 – Salary: Competitive salary plus benefits – Category: Optical, Retail Healthcare – Closing Date: 3 July 2026
Responsibilities
Provide comprehensive eye examinations, conduct contact lens fittings, and carry out extended service examinations. Work with the Dispensing Optician Manager to support colleagues through training, coaching, and maintaining departmental standards. Deliver NHS extended service care, including treatment and monitoring of eye conditions, while gaining any additional accreditations required to provide these services. Participate in professional development programmes and, when registered with the GOC, may supervise students to enhance skills and contribute to the growth of the profession.
Key Qualities & Skills
* A fully qualified optometrist registered with the GOC
* Registered performer with an NHS area team or health board MECs or WECs (or willing to obtain accreditation within 12 months of joining – funded and supported)
* On track to meet the statutory points requirement for CPD
* Passionate about delivering memorable customer experiences and developing new patient services
* Committed to shaping a positive departmental culture
Qualifications & Requirements
Must be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC) for the relevant professional role type. Evidence of Right to Work in the UK is required, as well as proof of NHS performer list membership for the intended nation and two clinical references. If applying in Wales, evidence of WECS accreditation and the WGOS module accreditation is also required.
Work Schedule (Rota)
Week 1: Monday 09:00‑17:25 (25‑minute unpaid lunch) or 09:00‑17:50 (50‑minute unpaid lunch).Week 2: Saturday 09:00‑17:25 (25‑minute unpaid lunch) or 09:00‑17:50 (50‑minute unpaid lunch).
Benefits
* Discretionary company bonus
* Company pension up to 7% matched
* 15% colleague discount in store and online
* Free access to wellbeing services (e.g., Stream, 24/7 virtual GP, counselling, health and dental cash plans, 24/7 employee assistance helpline)
* Professional indemnity insurance
* GOC fees paid
* CET package
* Flexible working patterns in accordance with the 7‑day opening schedule
* Allies Inclusion Networks – ensuring inclusion and celebration of differences
* Excellent parental leave policies (maternity & adoption leave, paternity leave, shared parental leave, neonatal care leave, fertility treatment support)
Equality & Inclusion
We want all colleagues to be able to bring their best and true selves to work, every day.
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