Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

About the Role

This is a permanent full-time position with a truly supportive practice that values both clinical excellence and your wellbeing. You'll work collaboratively with a close-knit team of four RVNs, delivering high-standard patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload. This role requires the capability to work sole charge, but you'll have genuine backing from experienced colleagues ready to offer advice and support when needed.

The schedule is genuinely flexible around your life. There is no on-call or out-of-hours requirement, and minimal Saturday cover is needed. Whether you're seeking full or part-time hours, the practice will do their best to accommodate your preferences.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver clinical care across 15-minute consults with a maximum of 18 scheduled appointments per day per vet
• Perform varied surgical procedures including neutering, dentistry, and diagnostic investigations
• Work up medical cases and manage emergencies, with typically one operation scheduled per day to allow flexibility
• Contribute positively to the clinical culture, sharing knowledge and supporting the development of colleagues
• Work collaboratively with the practice team to maintain high standards of care and client communication

Requirements

• Qualified veterinary surgeon with RCVS registration
• Experienced clinician capable of working sole charge
• Strong clinical skills with the ability to develop further interests
• Collaborative approach and positive attitude towards supporting team development

Benefits

• Salary up to £68,000 depending on experience
• Welcome bonus of £5,000 (pro rata)
• Relocation support of up to £5,000
• 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for professional development
• CPD allowance and access to IVC Academy training centres and role-relevant courses
• BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees paid
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay (maternity, paternity, adoption, surrogacy)
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles

About the Practice

Hednesford Vets is part of the Lockwood Veterinary Group, a member of the inspiring vet care network. The practice opened in 2015 and has grown into a thriving clinic serving Cannock, Stafford, Rugeley, Lichfield, and surrounding areas. The team is led by an experienced Head Nurse who has been with the practice since opening and is proud of the close-knit, supportive culture that has developed over the years.

The site is well-equipped with digital X-ray facilities, two consulting rooms, a separate theatre, ultrasound scanner, full operating suite with dedicated recovery area, patient accommodation, radiology, dentistry, endoscopy, electrocardiogram facilities, pharmacy, and in-house laboratory. Inspiring vet care is the UK's number one vet care provider, trusted with the care of over 2 million animals. Cannock itself offers a great balance between affordable living and green spaces, with easy access to Cannock Chase (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and convenient transport links to larger cities like Birmingham and Wolverhampton.