Locum Consultant Ophthalmologist interest in Vitreoretinal Surgery: Sponsorship Available

Job summary

We are seeking a Whole-Time Locum Consultant Ophthalmologist with a subspecialty interest in Vitreoretinal Surgery to join the Ophthalmology Department at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, based at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital. This is a fixed term post for 12 months starting from December 2026.

This is a fixed-term locum post to cover a 12 month gap in the service, we are looking for a candidate who brings not only strong clinical and surgical expertise, but also enthusiasm, drive, and a commitment to collaborative working. The successful applicant will join a supportive, friendly, and highly motivated team dedicated to delivering outstanding patient care. In addition to their subspecialty work, they would also be expected to work with the rest of the Department in managing the on call commitments and they would contribute to the delivery of cataract surgery, primarily based at the Northern General Eye Centre (NGEC).

We would welcome applications from candidates across the full spectrum of experience, from those who have recently completed training to those who have well-established careers.

Should any further vacancies arise shortlisted applicants will be considered.

Main duties of the job

The appointee will, together with consultant colleagues, be responsible for the provision of a comprehensive, effective and modern ophthalmology service, practicing the full remit of the specialty including a major contribution to the specialist Vitreoretinal service.

They will take their equal share in providing sub-specialty Vitreoretinal emergency cover and will be required to cover for colleagues during periods of absence. They will have continuing responsibility for patients in their care and the proper functioning of the Department.

They will be expected to take part in the support and training of junior Ophthalmologists and the development and training of medical students and ancillary allied professionals.

Appointments are made to the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the person appointed is required to be sufficiently flexible to undertake their main clinical duties at any of the sites within the Trust and/or to change their base hospital.

The successful candidate will work according to the terms and conditions of the national consultant contract.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• Registered (or eligible to be registered) with the GMC with a licence to practice or eligible within 6 months of the date of the interview.
• FRCOphth or equivalent international ophthalmology qualification

Desirable

• MD or PhD or equivalent
• Further qualifications in research methods, teaching and/or management
• Name on the specialist register for relevant specialty or eligible within 6 months of the date of the interview. If an applicant is UK trained, they must also be a holder of a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) or be within six months of award of CCT by date of interview.

Clinical experience

Essential

• Evidence of appropriate clinical experience suitable for the post. Ability to work as an independent practitioner.
• Completed a minimum of 12 months post-CCT Vitreoretinal fellowship in a recognised centre at the time of starting this post
• Evidence of competence in contemporary management strategies in VR surgery
• Personal log demonstrating competence in Vitreoretinal Services with audited outcomes
• Willingness to acquire/improve clinical skills & knowledge in Vitreoretinal sub specialty
• Evidence of competence in small incision day case cataract surgery

Research

Essential

• Ability to critically assess published research and incorporate it into clinical practice where appropriate
• Ability to apply research outcomes to clinical and surgical problems

Desirable

• Publications in Peer reviewed journals

Teaching and training

Essential

• Experience of teaching student doctors and doctors in training at all levels
• To have ability to teach all groups of staff
• Evidence of past training and on-going CPD as an Educator.

Desirable

• Advanced Teaching Qualification

Continuous Professional Development

Essential

• Evidence of participation in CME/CPD in the last 12 months.

Desirable

• Maintenance of a CPD diary or portfolio

Management and Administration

Essential

• Evidence of the understanding of the systems and structures of NHS Management

Clinical governance and audit

Essential

• Experience in performing clinical audit

Desirable

• Completion and publication of a substantive audit project or service improvement project

Personal attributes

Essential

• Demonstrates behaviour consistent with PROUD values
• Good time management skills
• Ensures value for money is considered in all that they do
• Good oral and written communication skills
• The applicant must demonstrate skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking the English language that enables effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues as set out in the GMC’ good medical practice (2013).

Closing Date: 8 November 2026