Clinical Specialist Nurse - Ophthalmology

Job overview

We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate candidate to join the Oculoplastic service at Aintree. This is a key role in the development and integration of periocular oncology support for our patients. The role has been designed to strengthen specialist nursing provision within oculoplastic while establishing a more coordinated, patient-centred approach to the care of individuals with suspected or confirmed periocular malignancy.

The postholder will work closely with Oculoplastic Consultants, ophthalmology colleagues, oncology services, and the wider MDT to provide expert co-ordinated clinical care.

A significant component of the role involves acting as a key point of contact for patients undergoing investigation or treatment for suspected or confirmed ocular and periocular cancers. This includes providing sensitive, timely information and emotional support, facilitating investigations, and supporting patients through diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.

The post also offers a clear development pathway toward the independent performance of minor oculoplastic procedures.  Following a structured programme of training, mentorship, and supervised practice, the postholder will have the opportunity to undertake minor procedures independently, subject to competency sign-off and local governance arrangements.

It is essential that the applicant has at least 2 years’ experience working within an Ophthalmic setting and have a recognisable ophthalmic qualification.

Main duties of the job

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specialist nursing assessment, care, and procedural support for patients attending the oculoplastic service at Aintree.
• Play a central role in enhancing and developing the oculoplastic service, with particular focus on integrating periocular oncology support into routine clinical pathways.
• Deliver patient-centred counselling and education, particularly for individuals with suspected or diagnosed periocular malignancies, ensuring compassionate and clear communication at all stages.
• Act as a key point of contact for patients undergoing investigation or treatment for ocular and periocular cancers, offering continuity, advocacy, and emotional support.
• Coordinate patient pathways, in collaboration with ophthalmology, oncology, and related services.
• Contribute to other ophthalmic subspecialty clinics as required to meet operational and service demands, working within individual competencies and scope of practice.
• Assist in minor surgical procedures within clinic settings, with progression toward independent practice in line with departmental training, competency, and governance frameworks.
• Contribute to service development, audit, and quality improvement initiatives aimed at improving patient experience, outcomes, and pathway efficiency.
• Maintain professional competence and engage in ongoing education and training relevant to oculoplastics, periocular oncology, and broader ophthalmic nursing practice.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Clinical Nurse/AHP Specialist will act as the clinical expert and professional  resource to the multi- professional team, patients and carers within their  Speciality Service.  • The post holder will have a responsibility to develop the specialist area of practice  in partnership with other members of the speciality team will work collaboratively  to develop services and improve the quality of care delivered.  • The post holder will carry responsibility for either a defined case load or offering  “highly specialist service advise” this will include setting standards of care, the  assessment of care needs and the development, implementation and evaluation  of programmes of care, management and education.  • The post holder will contribute to achieving the objectives of the clinical service  group / speciality corporate objectives and work within the clinical governance  framework.  • This will be achieved through the core dimensions of the role, clinical practice,  leadership, acting as the patient advocate and through audit and education.