Mixed Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to join the UK’s most northerly veterinary practice as one of two new mixed animal vets. You’ll work across three island sites, rotating between consultations, surgery, and farm visits, with occasional trips to the outer islands. The role is designed around genuine work-life balance: a 4-day working week (typically 8:30–5:30), manageable on-call duties, and time to actually enjoy island living.

The caseload is refreshingly varied—approximately 75% small animal, 20% farm work (beef and sheep), 5% equine, plus the occasional wildlife case. You’ll never experience the monotony of routine work; here, you might treat a cat one moment and help deliver a calf the next. It’s busy, but never boring, and the supportive team ensures you’re never working in isolation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide mixed animal veterinary care across three practice sites in Lerwick, Scalloway, and Bixter
• Conduct small animal consultations and surgery at the main practices
• Perform farm animal visits for beef and sheep work across the islands
• Undertake equine care and the occasional wildlife case
• Share weekly visits to Unst and Yell islands, with occasional trips to Whalsay and other inhabited islands for those confident in sole charge work
• Participate in a 1:5 weekend on-call rota (includes Saturday morning consultations 9–1, with Monday off in lieu)
• Cover one weeknight on call per week (flexible scheduling if it falls on your regular day off)
• Work collaboratively with the existing team of four mixed vets, one small animal vet, and experienced nursing staff

Requirements

• Qualified veterinary surgeon registered with the RCVS
• At least two years of mixed practice experience preferred
• Comfortable working with a mix of small animal, farm, and equine cases
• Willingness to embrace the variety and flexibility that island practice demands
• Ability to work independently on occasion, though always with phone support and nursing assistance available
• A genuine interest in developing skills across all areas of mixed practice

Benefits

• Salary: £40,000–£56,000 depending on experience
• Employee-owned profit share scheme – you’ll benefit directly when the practice thrives
• Out-of-hours bonus in addition to salary
• Relocation package of up to £5,000 available for the right candidate
• Temporary accommodation provided while you settle into the islands
• Practice vehicle provided for visits and travel between sites
• 6 weeks’ annual leave including bank holidays
• CPD fully supported with flexible arrangements for mainland courses
• RCVS and VDS fees paid by the practice
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing portal
• Island resident benefits: discounts on flights and ferries to the mainland

About the Practice

Shetland Vets is an independent, employee-owned practice and the only veterinary clinic serving the Shetland Islands. Established in 1985, the practice has grown to become an essential part of island life, operating three branches across Lerwick, Scalloway, and Bixter. With a diverse team of five vets, seven RVNs (three full-time, four part-time), two ACAs, and dedicated reception and admin staff, the practice has built a reputation for compassionate, skilled care across all animal species.

As an employee-owned business since 2014, staff have genuine input into how the practice operates and a real stake in its success. The team shares a commitment to excellence, continuing professional development, and environmental responsibility. With demand growing and a caseload that spans from companion animals to livestock and even occasional wildlife rescues, Shetland Vets offers the rare chance to develop broad expertise in a collegial, supportive environment.