Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This is a permanent position based primarily at the Stone site, with flexibility to work shifts across Shires Vets’ Eccleshall and Stoke-on-Trent branches. You’ll work 40 hours over 4 days with a manageable 1:6 Saturday rota (time off in lieu) and no overnight out-of-hours commitments—ideal if you value your weekends.

You’ll be joining a busy, purpose-built facility offering a varied and exciting small animal caseload. The practice has invested in modern equipment including recently replaced laparoscopy kit, digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house laboratory facilities, and dedicated dog and cat wards across light, spacious environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide first-opinion small animal veterinary care at the Stone site, with occasional shifts at Eccleshall and Stoke-on-Trent branches
• Contribute to surgical and medical cases within a supportive team environment
• Work collaboratively with experienced certificate holders specialising in medicine, surgery, ophthalmology, and feline medicine
• Gain exposure to orthopaedic and soft tissue surgeries under the supervision of an AVP in Surgery
• Participate in continuing professional development and certificate study where interests align
• Support the practice’s commitment to quality clinical care and excellent client communication

Requirements

• Completed or near-completion of VetGDP (Veterinary Graduate Development Programme)
• Some veterinary experience post-graduation
• Flexibility to cover shifts at multiple practice locations
• Enthusiasm to learn and collaborate as part of an established team
• Full professional registration with RCVS

Benefits

• Competitive salary: Up to £60,000 per annum (depending on experience), plus £2,000 welcome bonus for direct applicants
• 5 weeks’ holiday plus bank holidays and birthday leave
• RCVS and VDS fees paid by the practice
• Certification study encouraged with funding available
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• Life assurance and private health insurance
• E-car salary sacrifice scheme
• Enhanced equal family leave
• Extensive internal and externally funded CPD opportunities

About the Practice

Shires Vets is an established, family-owned practice founded over 70 years ago, serving Staffordshire and surrounding counties with five locations: Stone (main site), Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Eccleshall, and Gnosall. The team includes several RCVS certificate holders, an AVP in Surgery offering orthopaedic and soft tissue expertise, three vets providing echocardiography services, and a weekly visiting referral ophthalmologist. The practice is known for strong support of newly qualified veterinarians and a culture that encourages continuous professional development.

Shires Vets is part of Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health, the world’s largest family-owned veterinary company. As part of this group, you’ll have access to a network of specialists, worldwide development opportunities, and a comprehensive wellbeing package prioritising physical and mental health.