Graduate Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is your launchpad into veterinary practice. You’ll join Darley House Veterinary Centre, a small, welcoming practice in Farnworth (just outside Manchester) where new graduates are genuinely supported, not thrown in the deep end. The team includes four vets and five RVNs, all committed to helping you find your feet and build confidence in real clinical work.

You’ll work 40 hours per week over either four or five days, depending on what suits you best. Saturday morning cover is part of the rota (1 in 3), with time given back in lieu—manageable and fair. Expect a mix of structured learning time, shadowing opportunities, and hands-on consulting alongside a team that knows what they’re doing.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver small animal veterinary care alongside experienced vets and support from two dedicated VetGDP advisors
• Conduct clinical consultations, procedures, and minor surgical work under appropriate supervision
• Participate in allocated operation theatre time and structured shadowing sessions
• Share Saturday morning rota duties on a 1 in 3 basis
• Engage with the practice’s diagnostic facilities, including new ultrasound equipment and developing dental suite with X-ray capabilities

Requirements

• Recently qualified veterinary surgeon (new graduate)
• Registered with the RCVS
• Full UK driving licence (desirable, given location and transport links)
• Enthusiasm to learn and grow within a supportive team environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary: £36,000 per annum (FTE), with an increase in year two
• Learning and development: Access to the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy blended learning programme, £1,250 annual CPD allowance via the Care Fund
• Mentorship: Dedicated mentor support and guidance from experienced team members
• Holiday: 6.6 weeks annual leave plus your birthday off
• Wellbeing: £1,250 per year Care Fund (flexible use), 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Pension: Company pension scheme with IVC contribution
• Health: Private medical insurance
• Professional support: Paid professional memberships (RCVS and others)
• Additional schemes: Cycle to Work scheme, Green Car scheme, retail discounts and cashback, discounted pet care at IVC practices
• No tie-in: No financial lock-in contract
• Career network: Access to IVC Evidensia’s global community of veterinary professionals and cross-network opportunities
• Research opportunities: Eligibility to apply for the IVC Evidensia Research Fund

About the Practice

Darley House Veterinary Centre is a small, established small animal practice based in Farnworth, Bolton, just minutes from Manchester with excellent local transport links. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, a major UK veterinary group, giving you access to broader resources, learning programmes, and career development alongside the intimacy of a genuinely friendly, local team.

The practice is currently undergoing refurbishment and boasts modern facilities including a newly installed ultrasound machine, a developing dental suite with planned X-ray equipment, and a diagnostic imaging certificate holder on staff. The team of four vets (all 10+ years qualified) and five RVNs, supported by administrative staff, create an environment where you’ll learn from experienced practitioners who actively mentor new graduates. Two VetGDP advisors within the team ensure structured support tailored to your development.