Experienced Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This full-time position offers a refreshing approach to small animal practice. You'll work a typical 4-day week with a mix of 8–7, 8–5 and 8–4 shifts, plus a 1:4 weekend rota (Saturday 9–3, Sunday 10–3). Importantly, there's no out-of-hours or overnight inpatient responsibility — emergency cover is outsourced to a dedicated local provider, giving you genuine work-life balance without on-call stress.

Higham Ferrers is a charming market town surrounded by beautiful countryside, yet within easy reach of London, Birmingham and major airports, making it ideal if you want community feel with accessibility to major centres.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver first-opinion small animal medicine and surgery to a realistic caseload with proper follow-up time
• Build long-term relationships with clients and patients through the practice's unique Same Vet Promise model
• Contribute to a collaborative 5-vet team with interests spanning emergency and critical care, surgery, medicine, imaging and anaesthesia
• Work with 4 RVNs, 1 SVN and 2 VCAs in a close-knit clinical environment
• Utilise excellent facilities including digital and dental radiography, high-quality ultrasound, in-house lab, dedicated surgical facilities with laparoscopy, and ongoing equipment investment
• Participate in monthly clinical meetings, regular practice meetings and quarterly team socials

Requirements

• Minimum 1.5 years' post-qualification experience
• Full RCVS registration as a veterinary surgeon
• Enjoy both teamwork and clinical development
• Value building long-term relationships with clients and patients
• Certificate holders actively welcomed and encouraged to apply

Benefits

• Salary: £55,000 to £70,000 depending on experience
• Bonus up to 20% (not revenue-based)
• 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays
• Holiday buy-back scheme
• CPD encouraged and funded, including certificate support
• Professional fees paid
• Private healthcare for you and your children
• Enhanced maternity pay
• Childcare support up to 3 years old
• Relocation support available
• Self-contained accommodation available if needed
• Long-term progression opportunities as the practice grows

About the Practice

Higham Vets is an independent small animal practice in the market town of Higham Ferrers, built on the philosophy that giving vets the time, trust, and tools to work properly leads to good clinical work. The practice is designed with comfort in mind, featuring separate cat and dog waiting areas, heated floors, and air conditioning throughout. Over the last year, the practice has expanded inpatient facilities with a new inpatient entrance and ward area, introduced laparoscopic surgery, installed ISFM-standard cat kennels, and planned further expansion including rhinoscopy and gastroscopy. A brand-new purpose-built 400m² clinic is planned for 2027.

The practice culture emphasises genuine collaboration and shared learning. The team enjoys regular socials including race days, baking competitions, meals out and celebrations. Two team members are currently studying towards advanced qualifications, and one vet has recently completed their certificate. The practice owner, Charly, takes an active mentorship role and supports tailored professional development through quarterly fulfilment meetings focused on career progression, skills development and work-life balance.