Mixed Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This is a rare opportunity to join the UK’s most northerly veterinary practice – and the only one serving all of Shetland’s inhabited islands. You’ll rotate between three practice locations, handling an enviably varied caseload: approximately 75% small animal, 20% farm (primarily beef and sheep), 5% equine, plus occasional wildlife cases. With a genuine 4-day working week (typically 8:30–5:30, occasionally 10–7), one weeknight on-call, and a 1:5 weekend rota that includes Saturday morning consults (9–1) with Monday off in lieu, this role genuinely prioritises your wellbeing without compromising clinical experience. You’ll develop skills across all areas of mixed practice while enjoying the stunning landscape, outdoor culture, and tight-knit community that Shetland offers.

Some sole charge work is involved – particularly for visits to outer islands like Unst and Yell – but you’ll never be truly alone. Phone support from colleagues and on-call RVN assistance are always available, and the practice provides regular weekly visits to outer islands with ad-hoc trips elsewhere as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct consultations and clinical examinations across three practice locations
• Perform surgical procedures in a supportive, collaborative environment
• Undertake farm and equine visits across the inhabited islands
• Manage sole charge responsibilities for outer island visits (Unst, Yell, Whalsay) with telephone and nursing support
• Contribute to the practice’s continuing professional development culture
• Work collaboratively with four other mixed vets, one small animal specialist, three full-time and four part-time RVNs, and two ACAs
• Share on-call duties on a structured 1:5 weekend and weeknight rota

Requirements

• Qualified Veterinary Surgeon (RCVS registered)
• Ideally 2+ years’ experience in mixed practice
• Comfortable with sole charge work, particularly for island visits
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A genuine interest in mixed animal medicine across small animal, farm, equine, and occasional exotics

Benefits

• Salary: £40,000–£56,000 per annum depending on experience
• Employee-owned profit share scheme (practice has been employee-owned since 2014)
• Out-of-hours bonus
• Relocation package of up to £5,000 for the right candidate
• Temporary accommodation available while settling in
• Practice vehicle provided
• 6 weeks’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Fully supported CPD
• RCVS and VDS fees paid
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing portal
• Island resident discounts on flights and ferries

About the Practice

Shetland Vets is Shetland’s only independent veterinary practice and has been caring for the islands’ animals for 40 years. The practice operates three sites across Bixter, Scalloway, and Lerwick, serving both mainland Shetland and all inhabited islands. As an employee-owned business since 2014, the practice operates on principles of shared responsibility and shared reward – when the practice thrives, so do staff members through the profit share scheme. The team includes five vets (four mixed, one small animal specialist), seven RVNs across full-time and part-time roles, two ACAs, and dedicated reception and admin staff. With vets bringing interests in orthopaedics, ophthalmology, and farm animal health, the practice fosters a collaborative, knowledge-sharing environment where professional development is actively encouraged.

Life in Shetland offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure (hiking, kayaking, wild swimming, Northern Lights at 60 degrees North), cultural events (Up Helly Aa, Folk Festival, Wool Week), excellent wildlife watching opportunities, and strong community ties. The islands were ranked number six in Lonely Planet’s top European destinations and offer modern amenities alongside traditional island living. Education, housing, and leisure facilities are well-established, with daily flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness making mainland visits straightforward.