Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

About the Role

This is a full-time fixed-term contract for up to 12 months at a well-established, RCVS-accredited hospital in Hungerford. You'll work 40 hours across four days, Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm, with a manageable 1:6 OOH rota (on-call covered from home, time off in lieu provided). The role offers an excellent blend of consulting and theatre work within a busy, supportive environment.

The practice sees a genuinely varied caseload across two well-equipped sites: routine small animal work (dogs, cats, rabbits, small furries), occasional exotic cases, and wildlife referrals from the local community. You'll benefit from advanced diagnostic equipment including digital X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, multiparameter monitors, capnography, vessel sealing devices and electrosurgery. The team also includes certificate holders in surgery, medicine and ophthalmology, plus a visiting cardiology diplomate each month.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality primary care across a varied and rewarding caseload of cats, dogs, rabbits, small furries and occasional exotics and wildlife cases
• Balance routine consultations with theatre work, including routine procedures and more advanced surgeries
• Work collaboratively with the wider clinical team of 12 experienced vets, skilled nursing staff and client care team
• Develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing knowledge and experience with colleagues
• Contribute positively to the clinical culture and support the ongoing development of team members
• Participate in the 6-week OOH rota, providing after-hours on-call cover from home

Requirements

• Veterinary degree and RCVS registration (or eligibility to register)
• Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
• Strong communication skills and ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
• Proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
• Professionalism, reliability, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Benefits

• Salary up to £60,000 dependent on experience
• £1,250 annual Care Fund
• 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay (maternity, paternity, adoption, surrogacy)
• BVA membership, VDS cover and RCVS fees covered
• Funded CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches and peer networks
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

About the Practice

Hungerford Vets is part of inspiring vet care, the UK's number one vet care provider trusted with the care of over 2 million animals. The Hungerford practice was established in 1976 and its hospital opened in 1995. The practice has been RCVS-accredited for nearly 20 years, with all aspects inspected every four years to ensure standards in hygiene, equipment, staff training and client communication are maintained.

The practice is led by Hospital Director and principal vet Jonny Green, who joined in 1997 and became a partner alongside founder Pip Pocock. The team comprises 12 experienced vets, skilled nursing and client care staff, and specialists in surgery, medicine and ophthalmology. Two well-equipped sites provide advanced diagnostic and surgical facilities supporting a broad range of primary care and referral cases.