Working with Op: A Candidate Guide for 2026
Op is a UK-based staffing agency dedicated to connecting healthcare professionals with clinical and administrative roles across the medical sector. Candidates should know that Op acts as a bridge between talent and healthcare providers, meaning your profile is marketed directly to hiring managers who rely on agency vetting to fill urgent vacancies.
Who pays Op
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Op earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
1
Sectors we track
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Markets we track
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What specific healthcare roles does Op place?
Op focuses on the diverse needs of the UK healthcare landscape, ranging from clinical practitioners to essential administrative support staff. They typically work with hospitals, private clinics, and care facilities to fill both temporary and permanent vacancies. By specializing in this sector, they maintain deep knowledge of the specific certifications and compliance standards required for medical employment in the UK.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work for a candidate?
The process begins with a review of your credentials and professional history to ensure you meet the strict compliance standards required in healthcare. Once vetted, your consultant will discuss your availability and career goals to match you with suitable open roles. If a match is found, they facilitate the interview process and manage the logistical details of your onboarding or placement.
What should I expect regarding communication and timelines?
Expect a professional, high-touch relationship focused on the urgency of healthcare staffing needs. Once engaged, your consultant will provide updates as relevant roles become available, though they will not contact you for every single vacancy. Because they represent you to employers, they will manage the negotiation and scheduling phases, keeping you informed of progress at each critical milestone.
Your side
How can I get on Op's radar for upcoming roles?
To stand out, ensure your CV explicitly lists your current clinical certifications, registration numbers, and specific medical software proficiency. Submit your profile through their portal with a clear summary of your availability, whether you are seeking locum work or a permanent position. Proactively updating your contact information and availability status ensures you remain at the top of their search list when new roles emerge.
Is Op the right agency for my healthcare job search?
Op is an excellent fit if you are a healthcare professional seeking a partner to navigate the complexities of medical compliance and credentialing. If you prefer a hands-off approach where an expert handles the initial vetting and employer introductions, this agency model will serve you well. However, if you are looking for career coaching or roles outside the healthcare sector, you may find their specialized focus too narrow for your needs.
How to work with Op: candidate playbook
- Ensure your CV includes all current UK clinical registration numbers.
- Clearly state your availability for shifts or permanent roles upfront.
- Keep your compliance documents organized and ready for immediate submission.
- Respond to agency inquiries promptly to maintain your priority status.
- Notify the agency immediately if you accept a role elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for paying the agency fees?
In the UK staffing model, the hiring healthcare facility pays the agency fee for successful placements. You should never be asked to pay a fee to an agency for the service of finding you a job.
Should I register with multiple agencies at once?
It is common practice for healthcare professionals to register with more than one agency to maximize exposure to different facilities. Just ensure you keep track of which agency has submitted your CV to which employer to avoid duplicate applications.
What happens to my sensitive data after I submit my CV?
Agencies are required to handle your data according to UK GDPR regulations. Your information is stored securely and is only shared with potential employers after you have given explicit consent for a specific role.
How should I follow up if I do not hear back?
If you have not heard back after a week, a brief, polite email checking on the status of your application is appropriate. Keep your follow-up focused on any changes to your availability or new certifications you have recently acquired.
Applying through Op?
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General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.