Equine Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This is a rare opportunity to become the lead equine veterinary surgeon within an established large animal practice in rural Aberdeenshire. You’ll work with a team of 5 vets and a vet tech, focusing exclusively on equine patients—no farm work required. The caseload is wonderfully diverse: routine hacking ponies, competition horses, stud work, and everything in between. You’ll be based in Strichen, a welcoming rural community where you can genuinely achieve the work-life balance you’re looking for.

This is a full-time permanent role on annualised hours, giving you predictability and flexibility. The practice values your professional development and actively encourages vets who want to expand clinical services and drive equine standards forward.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide first-opinion equine care on a field basis across the practice territory
• Perform routine procedures including dental work, pre-purchase vettings, vaccinations, and comprehensive health checks
• Diagnose and manage a broad range of equine conditions and injuries
• Deliver clear, evidence-based advice to clients on equine health, welfare, and preventative care
• Lead and drive equine clinical standards and best practice within the practice
• Collaborate with a supportive team of 5 veterinary surgeons and 1 vet tech

Requirements

• RCVS-registered veterinary surgeon with genuine passion for equine ambulatory work
• Confident, motivated approach with strong client communication skills
• Keen to develop and expand equine clinical services
• Professional commitment to continuing education and staying current with equine medicine
• Experience valued, but your attitude and potential to grow matter most

Benefits

• Competitive salary package (details available on application)
• Annual leave: Up to 7 weeks annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy/sell up to 2 additional weeks
• First 5 years: One extra day’s leave annually
• Professional support: RCVS fees and VDS membership fees paid by the practice
• Pension: Workplace pension scheme
• Wellbeing: 24/7 employee assistance programme (EAP) for you and immediate family
• Wellness: Discounted UK gym membership via Gym Flex
• Healthcare: Discounted private health insurance and cash healthcare plan
• Staff perks: Discounted pet treatments, Sharesave scheme

About the Practice

Caledonia Farm Vets is part of CVS Group plc, one of the UK’s leading veterinary healthcare providers. The practice has built a strong reputation combining farm animal expertise with a thriving equine client base. The team is collaborative, supportive, and genuinely invested in professional development. Located in Strichen, Aberdeenshire, the practice serves a loyal, engaged rural community.

As part of CVS Group, you’ll benefit from corporate backing, professional resources, and access to wider professional networks—whilst maintaining the personal, locally-rooted feel that makes rural practice special.