Graduate Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is your launchpad into veterinary practice. You’ll join Pool House Vets’ Lichfield Hospital as part of IVC Evidensia’s Graduate Academy—a programme specifically designed to help newly qualified vets find their feet. You’ll be based at the main hospital site with a dedicated mentor and senior vet coaching, working across a caring team of 20 vets (16 FTE) and 21 RVNs/SVNs. The group operates 4 small animal sites across Staffordshire, all conveniently close to one another, and you’ll eventually rotate through them as your confidence grows.

Lichfield itself is brilliantly positioned in the heart of the country with direct rail links to London, Liverpool, and Birmingham, plus easy access to major airports. This is a 40-hour week over 4 days with one guaranteed day off per week, working standard 9am–7pm shifts (or 11am–9pm late shifts if preferred). You’ll work weekends (Saturday and Sunday 10-hour shifts with time off in lieu) and nights as part of a rolling rota, but these won’t start until you and the team agree you’re ready—and nights won’t feature at all for your first 6 months. Weekend coverage is shared with at least one other vet, so you’re never truly alone.

The hospital is well-equipped with ultrasound, dental x-ray, digital x-ray, separate cat and dog wards, and 5 consulting rooms. Solo branch work won’t be expected for at least 6 months, giving you plenty of time to build confidence in a supported environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver small animal clinical care alongside experienced vets and RVNs in a busy, supportive hospital environment
• Participate in a rolling rota that includes weekend shifts (shared with another vet) and scheduled night cover once you’re ready
• Develop clinical skills across general practice areas, with exposure to certificate holders in anaesthesia, surgery, imaging, and emergency & critical care
• Gradually rotate through the 4 Pool House sites as your competence and confidence develop
• Engage with your dedicated mentor and coaching senior vet to structure your professional development
• Contribute to the practice’s culture of high-quality, compassionate care for dogs, cats, and small pets

Requirements

• Newly qualified veterinary surgeon (graduate or within the first 1–2 years of qualification)
• RCVS registration (or eligible to register immediately)
• Enthusiasm to learn and willingness to be mentored in a supportive team
• Professional communication skills and a genuine commitment to animal welfare

Benefits

• Competitive Starting Salary: £36,000 per annum (full-time equivalent), with a salary increase in year 2
• Time Off: 6.6 weeks holiday plus your birthday off
• Wellbeing & Development: £1,250 per year via the Care Fund; blended learning programme tailored to your career goals; access to CPD and research opportunities including the IVC Evidensia Research Fund
• Financial Security: Company pension with IVC contribution; private medical insurance; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional Support: Paid professional memberships (RCVS and others); no financial tie-in
• Lifestyle Perks: Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes; retail discounts and cashback; discounted pet care at IVC practices
• Community: Access to IVC Evidensia’s global network of veterinary professionals and career opportunities across the group

About the Practice

Pool House Vets is a group of 4 small animal practices based across Staffordshire, operating under IVC Evidensia—one of the UK’s largest veterinary groups. The Lichfield Hospital site serves as the hub, housing the majority of the team and facilities. The practice combines the resources and support of a large corporate group with the community focus of established local practices, creating an ideal environment for graduates to develop their skills without the pressure of working alone.

The team includes certificate holders in anaesthesia, surgery, imaging, and emergency & critical care, providing you with exposure to diverse clinical interests and advanced techniques. IVC Evidensia is a Disability Confident Employer committed to diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging—reasonable adjustments are discussed openly during recruitment.