Graduate Veterinary Surgeon – Equine

About the Role

You’ll be joining Churchfield Equine Clinic, a dedicated 3.5 FTE equine practice nestled in the rolling Pennines near Penistone, South Yorkshire—just five minutes from the M1 motorway yet surrounded by countryside perfect for unwinding. The clinic has recently undergone significant refurbishment, with upgraded facilities and ambitious plans for further development. With a manageable 1:8 weekend and weeknight on-call rota (reducing to 1:4 occasionally for inpatient cover), you’ll work a structured 40-hour, 4.5-day week, typically 9–5, with time back in lieu for weekend calls.

The equine team consists of three highly experienced vets: one certificate holder in soft tissue surgery with 18 years’ experience, a 5-year qualified vet, and a 3-year qualified vet who completed an internship. You’ll receive dedicated mentorship and hands-on support as you build confidence in clinical decision-making and surgical assistance.

The practice benefits from excellent facilities including six inpatient stables, a large barn and workup area, theatre with recovery box, grass paddocks for patient turnout, a refurbished lunge arena, and trot-up facilities. You’ll perform routine surgeries under supervision, supported by experienced anaesthetists.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct equine examinations, diagnostics, and clinical assessments under mentor supervision
• Assist with and perform routine surgical procedures in the clinic theatre
• Manage inpatient care and monitor recovery within the clinic’s stable facilities
• Participate in the on-call rota (1:8 weekends and weeknights, with occasional 1:4 weekend cover)
• Develop clinical knowledge and soft tissue surgery skills alongside the clinical director
• Contribute to client communication and case management within a supportive team environment

Requirements

• Recent graduate or newly qualified veterinary surgeon (RCVS registered)
• Passion for equine medicine and willingness to develop surgical skills
• Ability to work as part of a small, collaborative team
• Flexibility to work occasional weekend on-call shifts
• Professional memberships current (or commitment to maintain RCVS registration)

Benefits

• Salary & Growth: £36,000 per annum (pro-rata), with a salary increase in year 2
• Time Off: 6.6 weeks holiday plus your birthday off; time in lieu (TOIL) for weekend on-call shifts
• Development: Access to the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy with blended learning programme, dedicated mentor support, and CPD opportunities including the IVC Evidensia Research Fund
• Wellbeing: £1,250 per year via the Care Fund; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme; private medical insurance
• Pension & Security: Company pension with IVC contribution; no financial tie-in
• Workplace Perks: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes; retail discounts and cashback; discounted pet care at IVC practices; paid professional memberships (RCVS and others)
• Flexible Working: Arrangements available to suit your lifestyle

About the Practice

Churchfield Veterinary Centre – Equine is a specialist equine practice forming part of IVC Evidensia, one of the UK’s largest veterinary groups. Recently rebranded as a dedicated equine clinic, all vets exclusively work in equine medicine. The practice combines modern facilities with an ambitious growth plan and a commitment to delivering high-quality service to equine clients across South Yorkshire.

IVC Evidensia is committed to diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging. The practice is a Disability Confident Employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, with reasonable adjustments available during recruitment.