Visa Note
This position offers a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates. However, applicants must verify their specific visa eligibility directly with the employer, as immigration requirements can vary based on individual circumstances and may change over time.
Job Summary
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust is seeking an enthusiastic and highly skilled ophthalmologist with fellowship experience in orbital and oculoplastic surgery for a fixed-term locum position. This 12-month contract offers an exceptional opportunity to join one of Europe’s leading tertiary ophthalmic centers with the potential for future substantive appointment. The Birmingham & Midland Eye Centre (BMEC), established in 1823, provides a dynamic environment where you can contribute to cutting-edge research, innovative care delivery, and specialist patient services.
About the Employer
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust (SWB) serves Birmingham and the Black Country – one of the UK’s most culturally diverse areas. The trust values of Ambition, Respect, and Compassion form the foundation of their approach to patient care and staff development. SWB aspires to be more than just a healthcare provider; their purpose is to “Improve the Life Chances and Health Outcomes of our Population.” This commitment creates a workplace where professionals can truly make a difference while developing their careers in a supportive environment.
Location and Working Environment
The position is based at SWB NHS Trust (BMEC), located at City Health Campus, Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 7QH. The Birmingham & Midland Eye Centre is one of Europe’s largest tertiary level Ophthalmic Hospitals, providing specialized expertise in clinical care, research, and education. As a Centre of Excellence, it treats patients across the West Midlands while receiving national and international referrals, offering exposure to diverse and complex ophthalmic cases.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from £109,725 to £145,478 per annum, paid under the Hospital Medical and Dental Staff pay scheme. The role is based at the Consultant grade level. While specific benefits packages should be confirmed with the employer, NHS positions typically include access to the NHS Pension Scheme, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development and continuing medical education.
Contract Details
This is a fixed-term contract lasting 12 months, with the potential to lead to a substantive Consultant appointment at the Birmingham & Midland Eye Centre. The position is full-time, requiring standard working hours plus participation in the Ophthalmic On Call rota. The reference number for this position is 381-SS-7344213-A.
Main Duties
The successful candidate will provide specialized support to orbital/oculoplastics services in tertiary settings, including services for the regional Ophthalmic A&E. A key responsibility will be setting up the Orbital Tumour Services and Grand Rounds in collaboration with Allied Disciplines. Fellowship-level experience in Orbital Surgery and demonstrated ability in independent surgery are essential requirements. The post holder will also participate in the Ophthalmic On Call rota, providing comprehensive emergency ophthalmic care.
Key Responsibilities
- Support specialized orbital/oculoplastics services in tertiary settings
- Set up Orbital Tumour Services and Grand Rounds with Allied Disciplines
- Provide expert care for patients requiring oculoplastic and orbital surgery
- Manage acute ophthalmic emergencies, including periorbital and orbital emergencies
- Participate in the Ophthalmic On Call rota
Person Specification – Qualifications
Essential: Entry on the Specialist Register in Ophthalmology (or entry expected within 6 months from the date of interview). Candidates must have completed clinical training and experience equivalent to that required for gaining CCT in Ophthalmology.
Desirable: A Higher Degree such as a PhD, MD, or equivalent postgraduate qualification would be advantageous but is not required.
Person Specification – Clinical Experience
Essential: Fellowship or equivalent training in oculoplastic and orbital surgery. Ability to take full and independent responsibility for the care of patients requiring oculoplastic and orbital surgery. Demonstrated ability to take full responsibility for the management of acute ophthalmic emergencies, including periorbital and orbital emergencies.
Desirable: Extensive experience in the medical and surgical management of orbital disease. Experience in risk management would be considered beneficial for this role.
Person Specification – Research and Innovation
Essential: Ability to apply research outcomes to clinical problems. An awareness of current specialty developments, initiatives, and issues within ophthalmology.
Desirable: Knowledge and experience of applying information technology to ophthalmology. Publications in relevant peer-reviewed journals within the last five years. Evidence of having undertaken original research that has contributed to the specialty.
Career Development Opportunities
This locum position provides an exceptional pathway to potential substantive Consultant appointment, offering international medical professionals the opportunity to establish themselves within the NHS system. The Birmingham & Midland Eye Centre is renowned for its research and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth, academic collaboration, and participation in cutting-edge ophthalmic developments.
Team and Support Structure
The post holder will join an integrated team including 33 consultants, 2 associate specialists, 13 specialty doctors, and 17 fellows. You will work collaboratively with specialist nurses, allied health professionals, technicians, and photographers within a framework that supports new ways of working and continuous quality improvement. The multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive patient care and professional support.
About Birmingham
Birmingham is the UK’s second-largest city, offering a vibrant multicultural environment with excellent transport links to the rest of the country. The city provides a high quality of life with diverse housing options, outstanding educational institutions, and rich cultural offerings. As a major medical center, Birmingham hosts numerous hospitals and research facilities, making it an ideal location for healthcare professionals seeking career development.
Why Relocate to the UK for this Position
The UK offers international healthcare professionals an opportunity to work within a world-renowned healthcare system with structured career pathways. The NHS provides comprehensive training, competitive salaries, and excellent working conditions. For ophthalmologists specializing in orbital and oculoplastic surgery, this position offers exposure to diverse cases, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration with leading experts in the field.
UK Registration Requirements
Applicants must have current UK professional registration with the General Medical Council (GMC). For further information about registration requirements and the application process, please visit the NHS Careers website for overseas health professionals. The trust will provide support with the registration process as part of the onboarding for successful candidates.
Certificate of Sponsorship Information
The employer is able to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship for eligible international candidates. Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants must present criminal record certificates from each country where they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and search for reference number 381-SS-7344213-A. Complete the online application form, ensuring you provide all required documentation including proof of qualifications, GMC registration, and evidence of your fellowship training in orbital and oculoplastic surgery.
Application Checklist for International Candidates
- Verify your eligibility for UK work visa with the employer
- Prepare GMC registration documentation
- Obtain necessary criminal record certificates from countries of residence
- Prepare evidence of fellowship qualifications and experience
- Prepare references from previous employers
- Ensure your CV meets UK standards
Contact Information
For questions about the job or to arrange an informal visit, please contact:
Miss Lauren Davies (Service Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0121 507 6845
For an informal discussion about the position, you may also contact:
Mr Yajati Ghosh: [email protected]
Miss Faye Mellington: [email protected]
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 01 December 2025. Early applications are encouraged as this position may be filled before the deadline if a suitable candidate is found.
Supporting Documents
The following supporting documents are available for download from the NHS Jobs website:
- Job Description.pdf (PDF, 462 KB)
- Person Specification.pdf (PDF, 462 KB)
Additional Information
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, requiring a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to verify the absence of previous criminal convictions. The trust is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age.
Employer Accreditations
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust holds several prestigious accreditations including Age Positive, Apprenticeships, Disability Confident Employer, Living Wage Employer, MINDFUL employer, and Smoke Free status, demonstrating their commitment to staff welfare and professional development.
Privacy Notice
For information about how your personal data will be processed, please refer to Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust’s privacy notice available at https://www.swbh.nhs.uk/about-us/statutory-information/privacy-and-cookies/
Further Information
For more information about Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and their services, please visit their website at https://www.swbh.nhs.uk/. The trust is continually developing its services and people plans, making it an exciting time to join their team and contribute to improving healthcare outcomes for the local population.
