Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

You’ll be joining Abbey Veterinary Clinic in the picturesque coastal town of Arbroath, Scotland, where clinical autonomy and supportive teamwork go hand in hand. This is a permanent position suited to an experienced clinician ready to mentor recent graduates, take on more responsibility, and continue developing their own skills. The role offers a 40-hour week spread over 4–5 days with Saturday mornings shared on an equal rota—and crucially, there’s no out-of-hours requirement. The practice is open to flexible working and part-time arrangements for the right candidate.

Your caseload will be varied and engaging: routine surgeries (neuterings, pyometras, lump removals), GI foreign bodies, dentistry, and medical cases. You’ll have genuine clinical freedom and access to investment in your development—whether that’s pursuing a certificate, offering specialist services, or advancing your surgical expertise. The practice also runs a dedicated cat clinic in partnership with Cats Protection, adding meaningful variety to your working week.

Located in a vibrant coastal community with beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and easy access to Dundee’s cultural attractions (V&A Museum, waterfront, restaurants) and the surrounding Angus countryside, Arbroath offers the perfect blend of outdoor lifestyle and local amenities.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality clinical care across a mixed caseload of medical and surgical small animal cases
• Perform routine and advanced surgical procedures including neutering, abdominal surgery, and dentistry
• Support and mentor newly qualified graduates within the team
• Contribute to the practice’s dedicated cat clinic in partnership with Cats Protection
• Develop specialist interests and services aligned with the practice’s investment in clinical excellence
• Work collaboratively with a team of 4 vets and 5 RVNs (including nurse-led clinics for nail care, blood pressure monitoring, post-op care, and blood sampling)
• Maintain high standards of patient care across two well-equipped branches in Arbroath and Forfar

Requirements

• Registered Veterinary Surgeon (RCVS)
• Significant experience in small animal practice
• Strong surgical and medical skills with a varied caseload background
• Ability to work collaboratively within a supportive team environment
• Interest in clinical development and mentoring junior colleagues

Benefits

• Salary & Bonuses: Up to £65,000 depending on experience, plus welcome bonus up to £5,000 and relocation allowance up to £5,000
• Time Off: 6.8 weeks annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) plus additional holiday for your birthday
• Professional Development: £1,250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave (pro rata); certificate support; access to IVC Evidensia Academy; Vetlexicon online encyclopaedia; research funding available; £1,250 annual Care Fund per vet
• Professional Memberships: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (confidential helpline); enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and surrogacy pay); colleague wellbeing initiatives
• Pension & Schemes: Company pension scheme with employer contribution; Cycle to Work scheme; Green Cars Scheme
• Colleague Perks: Voluntary benefits tailored to your needs; discounts and cashback with hundreds of retailers; discounted pet treatment at IVC Evidensia practices
• Quality & Development: Infection Prevention and Control Programme; Quality Improvement Programme

About the Practice

Abbey Veterinary Clinic operates two well-established branches in the picturesque towns of Arbroath and Forfar. The practice is fully equipped with the latest veterinary technology, including iM3 dental machines, digital radiology, IDEXX biochemistry and haematology equipment, and a recently installed brand-new dental x-ray machine in the Arbroath branch. The practice is committed to ongoing investment in facilities and clinical excellence.

The team comprises 4 experienced vets and 5 Registered Veterinary Nurses who take a hands-on clinical role, running their own specialist clinics in areas including nail care, post-operative care, blood pressure monitoring, and blood sampling. The practice has a strong collaborative culture and values both personal development and the highest standard of veterinary care. As part of IVC Evidensia, the practice benefits from corporate support while maintaining local clinical autonomy and decision-making.