Trainee Ophthalmic Photographer

Job description

Trainee Ophthalmic Photographer
Closing date: 06 July 2026.

Join the Ophthalmology team at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust. We are developing a new Eye Hospital in Sunderland, anticipated to open in early 2026. The role offers the opportunity to work in a dedicated standalone eye hospital, engaging in cutting‐edge diagnostics and research.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Trainee Ophthalmic Photographer to join the dedicated Imaging team. This role will provide high quality diagnostic services to assist clinicians in diagnosing, monitoring and treating complex eye conditions. You will join a skilled, technically competent team that prioritises patient care and continuous learning.

Main duties of the job
This role provides comprehensive diagnostic imaging services across the Ophthalmology service. It requires a highly motivated, dynamic individual with a keen interest in learning and development. You should hold a degree level qualification in Clinical Photography/Ophthalmic Imaging or equivalent experience.

You will work within a fast‐paced service and should be able to work calmly and confidently under pressure. You should be technically minded, attentive to detail, and committed to high standards of patient care. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including other photographers, clinicians and nurses.

Job responsibilities

Develop and achieve competence in providing imaging services that support accurate diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of ophthalmic conditions.

Progressively improve judgment in producing appropriate images for clinical staff and patients, based on evolving knowledge of eye anatomy and common conditions.

Ensure high‐quality images through the safe operation and routine maintenance of imaging devices such as fundus cameras, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and photo slit‐lamp cameras.

Participate in clinical trials and complete necessary certifications with relevant clinical trial reading centres.

Support day‐to‐day supervision of Ophthalmic Imaging Technicians, progressing toward a supervisory role as competencies are achieved.

Collaborate with healthcare professionals to enhance the service and improve patient outcomes.

Utilise a range of imaging techniques and specialized equipment to capture detailed images of the retina, cornea and optic nerve.

Adjust techniques for patients with physical limitations to enable imaging.

Provide a professional, efficient clinical and non‐clinical service, maintaining high technical standards for clinical records, teaching and research.

Once competent, supervise Ophthalmic Imaging Technicians.

Person Specification
Physical Skills

Ability to sit and stand in a restricted position.

Good hand‐eye coordination.

Speed and accuracy.

Ability to travel to multiple Trust sites.

Knowledge & Skills

Knowledge of ophthalmic imaging modalities.

Good teamwork skills.

Good interpersonal and communication skills.

Knowledge of a wide range of ophthalmic conditions and how best to image them.

Experience of ophthalmic imaging techniques.

Qualifications

Degree in Photography or equivalent qualification.

Post‐graduate qualification in Ophthalmic Imaging.

Experience

Experience working within an ophthalmic photography department.

Knowledge of IT systems, including HeyEx and Medisight.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and will require a submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer name
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust

We welcome all applications irrespective of race, disability, gender, sexual orientation, religion/belief, age, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity and particularly from under‐represented groups.

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Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Sunderland

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

06-07-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English