Clinical Lead IP Optometrist Vacancy - Kent Eyecare, Larkfield, Aylesford
(With some cover in Tonbridge)
At Kent Eye Care, this is not just a routine testing role. We are looking for an Independent Prescribing Optometrist who wants to work in a genuinely clinical, pathology-focused independent practice where professional judgement, autonomy and patient care come first.
We are a well-established family-run independent practice with over 18 years of service to the community. Our reputation is built on delivering high-quality eye care with a strong clinical focus, and this role offers the opportunity to work at the top of your licence in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.
If you are looking for a role where you can use your IP qualification properly, manage complex pathology, develop your specialist interests and work in an environment that values clinical judgement over conveyor-belt optics, this could be an excellent fit.
The Role
This is a role for an optometrist who enjoys true clinical practice.
You will be involved in the assessment, diagnosis and management of a wide range of anterior and posterior eye conditions, with particular involvement in urgent eye care, glaucoma care, and more specialty decision making within community practice. You will have the chance to use your prescribing qualification in a meaningful way, helping patients receive timely care without unnecessary delays or referral burden.
You will work closely with a wider clinical network, including ophthalmologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals, making this an ideal position for someone who values integrated care and wants to contribute to better patient outcomes at a higher level.
This is not a role where you are expected to simply refract and move on. It is a role where your clinical reasoning, decision-making and ability to manage pathology confidently will be valued every day.
As our Full-Time IP Optometrist, you will:
• Provide high-level clinical care across a varied and pathology-rich caseload
• Assess, diagnose and manage patients using your Independent Prescribing qualification
• Play a key role in the assessment and management of glaucoma
• Deliver comprehensive eye examinations supported by advanced diagnostic technology
• Manage urgent and routine presentations with sound clinical judgement and appropriate prescribing
• Work collaboratively with external healthcare professionals to ensure joined-up patient care
• Help shape and further develop our clinical services as the practice continues to grow
You’ll have access to equipment and infrastructure needed to support high-quality clinical care.
We provide 20-30 minute clinic appointments and 30-40 minute sight tests across 2 consulting rooms, giving you the time and tools to deliver excellent care.
Who we’re looking for
We are seeking someone who is:
• A qualified Independent Prescribing Optometrist (essential)
• Clinically confident, thoughtful and patient-centred
• Keen to work in a role with a strong medical and pathology-led focus
• Motivated to keep developing professionally
• Comfortable working as part of a collaborative, supportive team
Additional postgraduate qualifications are highly desirable, particularly in areas such as glaucoma or other higher clinical practice.
What we offer
• £60,000 base salary + £30,000+ clinical supplement (DOE) (paid as part of salary, dependent on clinical contracts and experience)
• 8:45am – 5:15pm
• Alternate Saturdays (flexible discussion available)
• Support with further postgraduate qualifications
• Strong clinical mentoring and development opportunities
• A supportive team environment with like-minded professionals