Locum Ophthalmology Consultant

Job overview

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Locum Consultant Ophthalmologist to join the Ophthalmology team at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust on a 12-month fixed-term basis. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and forward-thinking department providing specialist ophthalmic services across the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Prince Charles Eye Unit, and West Berkshire Community Hospital.

The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality Oculoplastic Ophthalmology services. The role offers a varied and rewarding job plan including oculoplastic ophthalmology clinics, oculoplastic ophthalmology surgery, on-call commitments, and participation in clinical governance, teaching, and service development.

Our Ophthalmology Department is one of the largest in the region, delivering approximately 100,000 outpatient attendances, 20,000 eye casualty attendances, and 7,000 day-case procedures annually, serving a population of around 1 million people. With modern facilities, dedicated ophthalmic theatres, advanced diagnostic equipment, and integrated digital systems, the department is well equipped to provide high-quality patient care and support service innovation.

This role is ideal for a consultant with strong experience in oculoplastic ophthalmology, who is passionate about service development, multidisciplinary working, education, and delivering excellent patient-centred care.

Main duties of the job

The postholder will provide high-quality specialist ophthalmology care, with a focus on Ocu-plastcics across both outpatient and inpatient settings. They will be responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and managing a wide range of acute ophthalmic conditions, while contributing to the delivery of safe, effective, and compassionate care.

The role includes delivering high-volume ocuplastic surgery, participating in the ophthalmology on-call rota, and supervising junior medical staff while supporting the teaching and development of trainees, nursing staff, and allied health professionals.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The postholder will also be expected to contribute to clinical governance, audit, and quality improvement activities, ensuring compliance with national standards and helping to identify opportunities for service development. Active participation in consultant meetings, departmental planning, and education programmes will be essential.

We are looking for a candidate with excellent clinical leadership, strong decision-making skills, and the ability to work effectively within a busy multidisciplinary environment. The ideal applicant will demonstrate a commitment to patient safety, service improvement, and teaching, alongside excellent communication, organisational skills, and a collaborative approach to care.

Applicant requirements

You must have appropriate UK professional registration.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.