We are recruiting for a permanent rotational shift pattern covering 24.5 hours per week over a two-week cycle at a well-equipped independent practice in Canterbury, offering Optical Assistant jobs with a salary of up to £15,882.10 pro rata per annum (equivalent to £26,748.80 FTE per annum). The weekly shift schedule alternates between Week 1 (Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 9am to 5:30pm) and Week 2 (Monday and Friday from 9am to 5:30pm, plus Saturday from 9am to 5pm). You will be joining an independent business that prioritises local relationships, patient choice, and high standards of client care using advanced diagnostic equipment and modern optical technology.
What you'll be doing
- Act as the first point of contact for patients visiting or contacting the practice, providing a warm and welcoming greeting in person and over the phone
- Listen to client needs, understand their requirements, and take ownership of their queries from start to finish
- Dispense single vision lenses, varifocals, and contact lenses, alongside performing professional spectacle adjustments
- Assist customers in selecting suitable frames, lenses, and other optical products
- Schedule appointments, manage bookings, and handle administrative tasks including processing payments and orders
- Maintain product displays and ensure the practice environment remains tidy, professional, and presentable
- Collaborate closely with the Practice Manager, optometrists, audiologists, dispensing opticians, and wider team members
What we're looking for
- Previous experience working within a busy opticians or optical retail environment
- Proven ability to dispense single vision lenses, multi-focal lenses, and contact lenses
- Strong IT skills alongside excellent communication and listening abilities
- A keen interest in eye care and eyewear with a strong attention to detail and organisational skills
- The ability to build strong, positive relationships with colleagues, peers, and clients while working well both independently and as part of a team
Salary and benefits
- Salary of up to £15,882.10 pro rata per annum (£26,748.80 FTE per annum)
- Part-time contract of 24.5 hours per week on a repeating two-week rota
- A professional, open, and supportive working environment focused on personal wellbeing and career development
- Enrolment on a comprehensive Front of House development course covering client journeys, contact lenses, eye anatomy, spectacle frames and lenses, and audiology awareness
- Hands-on learning workshops, optical screening equipment training, and visits to industry partner offices to explore advanced lens technology