Registered Veterinary Nurse

About the Role

Eden Veterinary Centre is seeking a motivated Registered Veterinary Nurse to join its clinical team on a 12-month fixed-term maternity cover contract, with the genuine possibility of permanence for the right candidate. Based in Carlisle on the edge of the Lake District, this role combines excellent lifestyle appeal with genuine clinical rewards. The practice recently relocated to a brand-new, purpose-built facility and operates a close-knit team culture where patient care and continuous development are central. You'll work full-time (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday) with participation in a 1-in-4 on-call rota that includes Saturday morning shifts from 08:30 to 12:00. Out-of-hours and Saturday morning shifts are paid on top of your standard salary, so you'll know exactly what to expect from your schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality nursing care to a range of first opinion cases within the practice
• Support smooth and efficient workflow across the small animal facility
• Assist veterinary surgeons with procedures and manage inpatient care
• Maintain clinical and hygiene standards to the practice's high specifications
• Complete administrative tasks accurately and efficiently
• Work collaboratively with the wider team to achieve the best outcomes for patients and clients
• Contribute to the ongoing development of patient care protocols within the practice

Requirements

• Current RCVS registration as a Veterinary Nurse
• Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in medical and surgical nursing
• Strong communication skills and ability to build positive relationships with clients and colleagues
• Good organisational skills with the ability to manage workload effectively
• A proactive approach to learning, reflection, and continuous improvement

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £29,100 depending on experience
• 6.6 weeks' annual leave plus your birthday off, with increasing allowance based on length of service
• £550 CPD allowance plus 24 hours paid leave for professional development
• RCVS and VDS fees covered by the practice
• Certificate support for ongoing qualifications
• Private Medical Insurance
• Healthcare Cash Plan and Cycle to Work scheme
• Enhanced family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and surrogacy pay
• Pension scheme
• Discounted veterinary care for your own pets
• Voluntary benefits including Green Cars salary sacrifice scheme and access to hundreds of retailers for discounts and cashback
• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities into Senior Nurse, Referral, or leadership roles, plus clinical supervisor, mentor and certificate holder positions

About the Practice

Eden Veterinary Centre was established in 2001 and recently relocated to a brand-new, purpose-built facility. Combining high clinical standards with a friendly, close-knit team culture, the practice continues to offer an excellent lifestyle on the edge of the Lake District. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, the UK and Europe's leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals. Eden Vets has strong connections with local animal charities including the RSPCA, Cats' Protection League, Blue Cross, The Penny Jones Animal Hospice and The Animals Refuge at Wetheral Shields. The practice is also an approved veterinary nurse training practice, nurturing talent within the local community. The owner, Charlie Foster, also runs Border Vets, a large animal practice in Longtown.