[HIRING NOW🔥] Diabetic Eye Screener & Grader Jobs in UK🇬🇧 | Apply Now

You want meaningful, patient-facing work that genuinely saves sight. This is it. The Herts and West Essex Diabetic Eye Screening Programme is recruiting Diabetic Eye Screeners and Graders with the East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust. Whether you’re already trained or starting as a trainee, you’ll get structured support, flexible shifts, and the chance to protect vision for people living with diabetes.

Pay starts at £27,485 and rises to £30,162, plus a High-Cost Area Supplement. You’ll work across modern NHS sites, use high-quality retinal imaging equipment, and help patients understand their results. If you care about accuracy, compassion, and making a visible difference, apply now.

Why this role is in demand

Diabetes is rising across the UK, and routine retinal screening is critical to prevent avoidable sight loss. The NHS Diabetic Eye Screening Programme invites eligible patients for regular checks to catch changes early. That creates steady demand for skilled screeners and graders who can capture clear retinal images, grade them accurately, and communicate next steps with sensitivity and clarity. Your work directly prevents vision impairment. It matters every single day.

Job overview

Item	Details
Employer	East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust
Programme	Herts and West Essex Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP)
Role	Diabetic Eye Screener and Grader
Location (base)	Hertford, SG14 1LP
Work sites	Across Trust locations: Hertford, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, Northwood
Salary	£27,485–£30,162 per year + High-Cost Area Supplement (5%)
Contract	Full-time
Schedule	Includes evenings and weekends; flexible patterns available
Who can apply	Experienced screeners/graders and trainees seeking structured training
Application window	Visit the official website for the current deadline

What you’ll do

• Carry out visual acuity tests accurately and efficiently.
• Administer local anesthetic and dilation drops as directed by a clinician.
• Capture high-quality retinal photographs using correct alignment and fixation techniques.
• Grade retinal images in line with national screening programme standards and pathways.
• Explain results appropriately and ensure timely communication to patients and their GPs.
• Educate patients on dilation drops and manage any adverse effects safely.
• Provide compassionate, confidential, and person-centred care at every interaction.
• Maintain precise records in the screening system and follow information governance policies.

Salary and benefits

The Trust offers a competitive package designed to reward skill and support your growth:

• Base pay: £27,485–£30,162 per year (Agenda for Change) plus High-Cost Area Supplement of 5%.
• Flexible working: Evening and weekend shifts with scope for tailored schedules.
• Training and development: Ongoing CPD, structured support for trainees, and clear progression pathways within the NHS.
• NHS benefits: Pension, paid annual leave, and staff health and wellbeing support.
• Impactful work: Be part of a patient-first service preventing avoidable sight loss across the region.
• Top-tier environment: Join a teaching Trust with modern facilities and a collaborative culture.

Requirements and eligibility

• Desirable: Prior experience in photographic or diagnostic imaging (e.g., retinal imaging, ophthalmic photography).
• Availability: Willing to work evenings and weekends as service needs require.
• Values: Strong alignment with the Trust’s core values: Include, Respect, Improve.
• Compliance: Able to complete pre-employment checks, including references, occupational health clearance, and any required DBS checks.
• Right to work: UK right to work or eligibility for sponsorship where offered by the Trust.

About East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust

The Trust delivers high-quality, compassionate care across Hertfordshire and West Essex, operating multiple sites including:

• The Lister Hospital, Stevenage
• New Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, Welwyn Garden City
• Hertford County Hospital, Hertford
• Mount Vernon Cancer Centre (MVCC), Northwood

With more than 6,000 staff, the Trust prioritises continuous improvement, staff development, and wellbeing.

Visa sponsorship and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Many NHS Trusts hold a Home Office Sponsor Licence and may offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for eligible roles. Sponsorship is not automatic and depends on the specific vacancy and candidate suitability. Always check the live advert for a clear statement on sponsorship.

• If sponsorship is offered: The Trust can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) once you accept a conditional offer and pass pre-employment checks.
• Skilled Worker route: You must meet Home Office requirements, including English language and salary thresholds. Visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are typically candidate-paid unless the advert states otherwise.
• Overseas applicants: Prepare certified qualifications, employment references, and any required English test results. Keep your documents ready to avoid delays.

Tip: On NHS Jobs, use filters for “Visa sponsorship available” and set alerts to catch new postings quickly.

How to apply

1. Review the job pack: Read the Job Description and Person Specification for the Diabetic Eye Screener/Grader role to confirm fit.
2. Prepare documents: Update your CV to highlight retinal imaging, ophthalmic, or clinical support experience. Add a concise cover letter explaining motivation and relevant skills.
3. Apply online: Submit your application via the Trust’s careers portal or NHS Jobs. Ensure every section is complete and tailored to the spec.
   
   Useful link: NHS Jobs
4. Complete assessments (if required): You may be asked to undertake screening-related skills or competency tests.
5. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will attend an interview that may include practical demonstrations and scenario questions.
6. Pre-employment checks: Provide references, occupational health information, and complete any required DBS checks.
7. Offer and start: On successful checks, you’ll receive a formal offer and start in a flexible rota that can include evenings and weekends.

Deadline: Visit the official website for the current deadline.

FAQ

Can trainees apply for diabetic eye screener roles?

Yes. Trainee positions are available under Agenda for Change terms. You’ll receive full training, supervision, and clear pathways to progress while contributing to high-quality diabetic eye screening across Hertfordshire and West Essex.

What is the salary for diabetic eye screener and grader jobs?

The salary is £27,485–£30,162 per year, plus a High-Cost Area Supplement of 5%, recognising the responsibilities involved in screening and grading.

Where are the roles based?

Posts are based across the East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust sites, including Hertford, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, and Northwood, giving you access to modern facilities and a supportive, patient-focused team.

Is visa sponsorship available for international candidates?

It may be, depending on the specific vacancy and Trust policy. Check the live advert on NHS Jobs for a clear statement about Skilled Worker sponsorship and eligibility. If offered, the Trust can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship after pre-employment checks.

What does the work schedule look like?

The service runs clinics that include evening and weekend sessions. Flexible working can be considered to help you balance life and work while meeting patient demand.

Ready to apply?

If you’re passionate about protecting eyesight and delivering compassionate care, this role is a smart move. Polish your CV, tailor your cover letter, and apply via NHS Jobs today. Set job alerts, move fast, and take your next step in the NHS now.