Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

About the Role

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract offering a rare combination of clinical variety and schedule flexibility. You'll consult, operate, and treat inpatients across a well-equipped small animal practice, with the option to shift towards consulting-only work if that suits your interests. The practice values thorough care, with longer than average consultation times, giving you space to work thoughtfully with clients and colleagues.

Based in the Langstone branch, you'll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and the chance to develop specialist interests. Whether it's orthopaedic work-ups, advanced laparoscopic cases, or routine medicine, the caseload is varied and rewarding. A flexible rota and tailored schedules mean this role can fit your lifestyle, whether you're full-time (40 hours) or part-time (3-4 days).

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-standard patient and client care across a varied small animal caseload
• Consult, perform surgery, and manage inpatient cases collaboratively with the wider practice team
• Develop and share your clinical skills and knowledge, contributing positively to the team culture
• Support the ongoing development of colleagues through mentorship and knowledge-sharing
• Work independently and collaboratively as an integral member of the clinical team

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 the 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 £75,000 FTE depending on experience
• Welcome bonus up to £1,500
• Relocation allowance up to £1,500
• 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• £1,250 annual Care Fund
• CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres and role-relevant courses
• BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Support to develop clinical interests and expand capabilities

About the Practice

Alphavet Veterinary Centre has operated since 1996, investing heavily in state-of-the-art facilities to serve the Newport and Gwent area. The practice comprises two locations (Risca and Langstone) and is rare in being owned and run by a veterinarian. The team carries out comprehensive small animal services, provides referral support to neighbouring practices, and hosts visiting specialists in dermatology and ophthalmology.

The Langstone branch features refurbished facilities with digital x-ray, ultrasound, in-house lab, sterilisation room, advanced dental equipment, separate wards, dedicated dental suite, imaging, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and advanced orthopaedic and spinal equipment. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia.