About the Role
Penmellyn Vets is seeking a Veterinary Surgeon to join its established St. Columb Major hospital team. You'll work with a varied small animal caseload—dogs, cats, rabbits, small furries, and occasional wildlife—across a well-equipped referral centre backed by satellite practices. This is a four-day-per-week role with a 1 in 5 weekend rota (8:30am–4pm, with time off in lieu during the week), and crucially, there is no out-of-hours or on-call requirement.
You'll have access to CT, laparoscopy, endoscopy, digital and dental X-ray facilities, and laser therapy—enabling you to work cases from routine procedures through to orthopaedics and advanced soft tissue surgery. The practice culture emphasises shared learning, with certificate holders across multiple disciplines actively encouraging colleagues to develop specialist interests.
Part-time applications are also welcome, and flexible working arrangements can be discussed.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver high-standard patient and client care across a varied small animal caseload
- Work collaboratively with the 28-strong vet team, skilled RVNs, and dedicated client care staff
- Contribute to the clinical culture by sharing knowledge and supporting colleague development
- Develop your own clinical skills and interests whilst managing a balanced mix of consultations and surgery
- Work both independently and as part of the wider practice team to maintain clinical excellence
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 independently and collaboratively
Benefits
- Salary: Up to £65,000 depending on experience, plus a welcome bonus up to £5,000
- Time off: 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
- Learning & development: £1,250 annual Care Fund, funded CPD allowance, access to IVC Academy training centres and role-relevant courses
- Professional support: Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks; support to develop clinical interests and expand capabilities
- Healthcare: Private medical insurance
- Family support: Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy pay and leave
- Professional fees: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
- Schemes: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
- Perks: Retail discounts, cashback offers, and reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
- Career pathways: Clear progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
About the Practice
Penmellyn Vets has been caring for pets and their owners across mid-Cornwall for over 130 years, building a reputation for high clinical standards and strong client care. The practice operates from a central hospital in St. Columb Major supported by satellite clinics, creating a network environment whilst maintaining a close-knit, collaborative team culture.
The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, the UK and Europe's leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals. IVC Evidensia is committed to creating environments where teams can grow in confidence, capability, and fulfilment at every career stage, with investment in learning, innovation, and wellbeing at its core.
