If you’re a Registered Nurse looking to build a rewarding career in the UK NHS, this is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist ophthalmology team. West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust is recruiting a Staff Nurse/Ophthalmic Nurse to work in its modern Eye Treatment Centre at West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds.
Whether you already have ophthalmology experience or are eager to develop specialist skills, this role offers comprehensive training, professional development, and the chance to work in a fast-paced, innovative clinical environment.
Job Overview
| Job Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Staff Nurse / Ophthalmic Nurse |
| Employer | West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust |
| Location | West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds, England |
| Contract | Permanent |
| Closing Date | 10 August 2026 |
| Department | Eye Treatment Centre |
Why This NHS Job Stands Out
The Eye Treatment Centre at West Suffolk Hospital is one of the busiest specialist eye services in the region, caring for more than 200 patients every day. The Trust is committed to delivering exceptional eye care while supporting nurses with continuous education and career progression.
Even if you are new to ophthalmology, you will receive structured training and support to help you succeed in your new role.
About West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust
West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust provides high-quality healthcare to more than 250,000 people across west Suffolk. The Trust employs nearly 5,000 staff from diverse backgrounds and promotes an inclusive, supportive working environment.
West Suffolk Hospital is a 500+ bed acute hospital and a partner teaching hospital of the University of Cambridge, offering a wide range of specialist services, including:
- Emergency Care
- Maternity Services
- Neonatal Care
- Eye Treatment Centre
- Day Surgery
- Children’s Services
- Macmillan Cancer Unit
- Community Nursing Services
The Trust’s values of fairness, respect, inclusivity, safety, and teamwork shape everything they do.
Your Role as a Staff Nurse/Ophthalmic Nurse
As part of the Eye Treatment Centre team, you will rotate through different clinical areas to build specialist ophthalmic nursing skills.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting during ophthalmic surgeries
- Preparing patients before surgery
- Providing post-operative nursing care
- Supporting cataract surgery procedures
- Assisting with glaucoma surgery
- Supporting corneal procedures
- Working in oculoplastic and strabismus surgery
- Participating in intravitreal injection services
- Working in outpatient clinics and ophthalmic wards
- Collaborating with surgeons, anaesthetists, and multidisciplinary teams
- Delivering patient education and health advice
- Maintaining high clinical and patient safety standards
Professional Development Opportunities
One of the biggest advantages of this role is the opportunity to develop specialist skills in ophthalmology.
The Trust provides:
- Comprehensive ophthalmic training
- Clinical supervision
- Ongoing professional development
- Exposure to multiple specialist eye services
- Opportunities to enhance theatre nursing experience
- Continuous learning in the latest ophthalmic practices
This makes the position suitable for nurses who want to develop a long-term specialist career within the NHS.
Essential Requirements
Applicants should have:
- Current NMC or HCPC registration
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Working towards Immediate Life Support (ILS)
- Recent acute care nursing experience
- Experience working within a multidisciplinary team
- Evidence of continuing professional development
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Excellent clinical skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Desirable Qualifications
The Trust will particularly value candidates who have:
- Experience in ophthalmology theatres
- Knowledge of ophthalmic procedures
- Previous theatre nursing experience
However, applicants with a strong nursing background and an interest in ophthalmology are also encouraged to apply.
Skills Needed for Success
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Excellent time management
- Attention to detail
- Strong teamwork
- Professional attitude
- Leadership potential
- Ability to work independently
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Patient-focused communication
- Commitment to confidentiality and data protection
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship
International nurses requiring a UK Skilled Worker visa are welcome to apply. Applications requiring sponsorship will be considered alongside all other eligible candidates, subject to UK immigration rules and Trust requirements.
Applicants should also ensure they meet the overseas criminal record certificate requirements outlined by UK Visas and Immigration.
UK Registration Requirement
Candidates must hold current UK professional registration before appointment. International nurses should ensure they have completed their NMC registration process before applying.
Working at West Suffolk Hospital
Joining West Suffolk Hospital means becoming part of a respected NHS organisation that values innovation, teamwork, and compassionate care.
Benefits include:
- Specialist ophthalmology experience
- Supportive multidisciplinary team
- Structured learning opportunities
- Professional career progression
- Inclusive workplace culture
- Teaching hospital environment
- Diverse clinical exposure
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Final Thoughts
The Staff Nurse/Ophthalmic Nurse vacancy at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust is an outstanding opportunity for registered nurses who want to specialise in ophthalmology within the UK NHS. With comprehensive training, exposure to advanced eye care services, opportunities for professional growth, and potential Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, this role is ideal for nurses seeking long-term career development.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, be sure to submit your application before the 10 August 2026 closing date. To maximise your chances of success, prepare a professional NHS CV and strengthen your interview skills with the expert support of Fortuwest International.
