The Ultimate Career Guide for UK Optometrists in 2024

Optometrists.

Want to see what's out there?

If you're an optometrist in the UK looking to elevate your career, you've hit the jackpot.

Whether you're eyeing a high street hustle, a hospital haven, or diving into the depths of clinical research - your golden ticket is here.



Top High Street Chains For UK Optometrists

High street optometry is all about clinical expertise with top-notch customer service. If you love a fast-paced environment and direct patient interaction, this is the way to go.

1. Specsavers Opticians - The behemoth of optical retail, offering unparalleled training and career growth.
2. Boots Opticians - Synonymous with trusted eye care and stellar customer service.
3. Vision Express - A haven for career development and diverse opportunities.
4. Optical Express - Leaders in laser eye surgery and advanced eye care.
5. Scrivens Opticians - Family-run, focusing on personalised service.
6. Leightons Opticians - Known for high-quality eyewear and patient care.
7. Asda Opticians - Affordable eye care within Asda stores.
8. Tesco Opticians - Convenient eye care services in Tesco supermarkets. (Via Vision Express)
9. House Of Fraser Opticians - Premium services within department stores.
10. Marks & Spencer Opticians - Combining M&S’s quality with excellent eye care.
11. David Clulow Opticians - Luxurious eyewear and exceptional service.
12. John Lewis Opticians - Quality eye care within John Lewis stores.
13. Foyles Opticians- Independent practices with personalised service.
14. Specs For Less Opticians - Budget-friendly eye care solutions.

Have we missed you? Want to join? Reach out to get added to the list!

Why High Street Optometry?

- Career Progression: Fast-track your way up with diverse specialisations.
- Job Satisfaction: Directly improve lives with your expertise.
- Flexible Hours: Enjoy a work-life balance with part-time options.

Top Employers For Hospital Optometry: The Clinical Frontier

Step into the clinical world of hospital optometry where you deal with complex cases and cutting-edge treatments.

It’s the perfect place to put your clinical skills to the test.

Making the jump to hospital optometry can feel daunting, but it's incredibly rewarding.

1. NHS Hospitals - Dive into specialised departments like glaucoma and retinal clinics.
2. Moorfields Eye Hospital - The pinnacle of eye health and research.
3. Spire Hospitals - Competitive salaries and state-of-the-art facilities.
4. BMI Healthcare Hospitals- Excellence in patient care and modern environments.
5. Optegra Eye Hospitals- Leaders in eye surgery with cutting-edge tech.
6. The Royal London Hospitals - Extensive services and training opportunities.
7. Queen Victoria Hospitals - Specialising in reconstructive surgery.
8. Birmingham Medical Eye Centre - Comprehensive care and research hub.
9. Royal Eye Infirmary, Plymouth - Renowned for clinical excellence.
10. Manchester Royal Eye Hospital - Specialised care and top-notch research.

Why Hospital Optometry?

- Advanced Clinical Work: Engage in challenging and complex cases.
- Collaborative Environment: Work with top healthcare professionals.
- Professional Development: Access to specialized training and conferences.

Clinical Research Jobs For Optometrists: Pioneering the Future

Join the ranks of those pushing the boundaries of eye care. Clinical research offers a thrilling journey into new treatment methods and pioneering studies.

1. Moorfields Eye Hospital - A global leader in ophthalmic care and research, known for pioneering advancements in eye treatments.
2. University Of Oxford - Nuffield Laboratory Of Ophthalmology - Focusing on breakthrough research in eye diseases, this prestigious institution drives innovation in ophthalmology.
3. University Of Cambridge - Vision & Eye Research Institute - Dedicated to advancing our understanding of vision science and offering significant research opportunities in eye health.
4. Queen's University Belfast - Centre For Experimental Medicine - Specialises in cutting-edge research on eye disorders, exploring new treatments and interventions.
5. The University of Manchester - Division of Optometry - A leading hub for optometry research, committed to pushing the boundaries of eye care and vision science.
6. University College of London - Institue of Ophthalmology - Leading research in eye diseases.
7. University Of Southampton - Vision Research Group - Focus on applied vision research.
8. Cardiff University - School Of Optometry & Vision Sciences - Cutting-edge research initiatives.

Why Clinical Research?

- Cutting-Edge Research: Contribute to groundbreaking studies.
- Academic Environment: Thrive in an intellectual atmosphere.
- Networking: Collaborate with top researchers and professionals.

Top Employers In Domiciliary Optometry: Care on the Go

Bring your expertise to patients who can't come to you.

Domiciliary optometry is all about providing essential eye care right where it's needed.

1. Specsavers Home Visits - Comprehensive care at home.
2. Visioncall Opticians - Specialised in care homes and home visits.
3. The Outside Clinic - Leaders in home eye care services.
4. Home Health Care Opticians- Personalised domiciliary services

Why Domiciliary Optometry?

- Flexibility: Enjoy more flexible working hours.
- Personal Impact: Make a significant difference in patients' lives.
- Variety: Experience diverse environments and needs.

Academic Optometry Jobs In The UK: Shaping the Future

Educate the next generation of optometrists while engaging in continuous learning and research.

It's a fulfilling path for those who love to teach.

1. Aston University - Top-rated programs and research.
2. University Of Bradford - Comprehensive curriculum.
3. Cardiff University - Innovative teaching and research.
4. City University, London - Modern curriculum and facilities.
5. University Of Hertfordshire - Practical training and research.
6. University Of Manchester - Extensive research and training.
7. University Of Ulster - Renowned for research and education.
8. University Of Plymouth - Hands-on training and research.
9. University Of Portsmouth - Dynamic program with research opportunities.
10. University Of Aberdeen - Known for research and training.
11. University Of Glasgow - Comprehensive curriculum and research.
12. University Of Edinburgh - Research and teaching excellence.
13. University Of Birmingham - Top-rated programs and research.
14. Anglia Ruskin University - Practical training and research.
15. University Of Liverpool - Diverse curriculum and research opportunities.

Why Academic Optometry?

- Teaching and Mentoring: Inspire future optometrists.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in innovative projects.
- Academic Environment: Access cutting-edge knowledge and resources.

Top Employer In Public Health Optometry: Broader Impact

Work with government or non-profits to develop and implement eye health programs. It's about making a larger societal impact.

1. Public Health England - National health policies and initiatives.
2. Royal National Institute Of Blind People (RNIB) - Advocacy and support for the visually impaired.
3. Fight For Sight - Pioneering eye research funding.
4. The College Of Optometrists - Professional support and education.
5. International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) - Global efforts to prevent blindness.

Why Public Health Optometry?

- Impactful Work: Influence health initiatives and policies.
- Diverse Opportunities: Engage in various projects.
- Community Engagement: Improve eye health in communities.

Top Employers in Industry and Technology Optometry: Innovate and Thrive

Collaborate with tech companies on innovative eye care solutions. If you love tech, this is your sweet spot.

1. Johnson & Johnson Vision - Innovative vision care products.
2. Bausch & Lomb - Advanced eye health products.
3. CooperVision - Specializes in contact lenses.
4. Alcon - Surgical and vision care products.
5. Zeiss - Precision optics and eye care solutions.
6. Hoya - Advanced optical technologies.
7. Essilor - Innovative vision care solutions.
8. Luxottica - Eyewear design and manufacturing.
9. Topcon - Diagnostic instruments and software.
10. Heidelberg Engineering - Diagnostic imaging systems.

Why Industry and Technology Optometry?

- Innovation: Work on cutting-edge technology.
- Diverse Roles: Opportunities in R&D, marketing, and professional services.
- Professional Growth: Continuous learning and development.

Tips for Landing Your Ideal Optometry Job

1. Network: Connect with pros through industry events and social media.
2. Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant skills and experiences.
3. Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest developments.
4. Gain Experience: Consider locum positions to build your resume.

By diving into your research and stepping confidently into your next role, you can carve out a fulfilling career in optometry that aligns with your passions and ambitions.

Embrace the journey, and remember that each experience brings you closer to making a meaningful impact in the field!

From the bustling high street to research labs, find your niche and make an impact.

For more information and job listings, check out our jobs board.

Drop us a message if you have any questions!