Salary up to £50,000 DOE - FTC 12 Months
At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK's number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.
Animals 1st is looking for an enthusiastic Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly and supportive team on a full-time, temporary basis. This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a well-established, collaborative practice where high clinical standards and strong team support are a priority.
You'll enjoy a varied first opinion caseload with a balanced mix of consulting and surgery, working alongside experienced colleagues who are always willing to share knowledge and provide guidance. Whether you are an experienced vet or looking to further develop your skills within a supportive environment, this role offers an excellent platform to grow and thrive clinically.
Animals 1st is a modern and well-equipped small animal practice with a strong reputation for delivering high standards of patient and client care within the local community. We pride ourselves on providing a calm, welcoming, and professional environment for colleagues, clients, and patients alike.
Practice Highlights
- Experienced clinical team of 3 Veterinary Surgeons supported by a skilled nursing and support team
- Certificate holders within surgery and medicine supporting clinical development and case discussion
- Varied first opinion caseload with a balanced mix of consultations, medical work-ups, and surgical procedures
- Supportive training practice environment focused on learning and professional development
- Modern facilities including radiography, ultrasound, and separate dog and cat wards
- Collaborative approach to case management with strong internal referral and discussion culture
- Strong focus on high clinical standards and excellent patient experience
How You'll Make a Difference
As a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon, you'll work collaboratively with the wider practice team to deliver a high standard of patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload.
You'll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You'll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you.
- Deliver consultations and manage a varied first opinion caseload
- Perform routine surgical procedures and support medical work-ups
- Contribute to inpatient care and continuity of cases
- Work collaboratively within a supportive and experienced clinical team
- Participate in a balanced mix of consulting and surgical duties
- Support high standards of clinical care and client communication
Working Pattern
- 40 hours per week
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8am-6pm
- No out-of-hours commitment
Life in East Lothian
Animals 1st is based in beautiful East Lothian, offering the perfect balance of countryside and seaside living while being only a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh. The area provides easy access to stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant city amenities, making it an ideal location for those seeking both professional opportunity and an excellent quality of life outside of work.
At Animals 1st, we pride ourselves on a positive and inclusive culture where teamwork, communication, and mutual support are central to how we work. It's a friendly and welcoming environment where colleagues are encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and support one another in delivering excellent care.
You Might Be a Great Fit If...
You are a confident and motivated veterinary surgeon who enjoys working as part of a team and is committed to delivering high-quality patient and client care. You'll bring:
- A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS
- Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
- A proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
- Professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- A passion for delivering excellent patient and client care
How We'll Support You
At inspiring vet care, we're committed to supporting your ongoing development and well-being. When you join us, you'll benefit from:
- Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
- Funded learning and development, including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses
- £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
- Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
- Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
- A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
- 6.8 weeks' holiday, including bank holidays
- Private medical insurance
- Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
- BVA membership & VDS cover & RCVS fees
- Cycle to Work & Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
- Retail discounts and cashback offers
- Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets
Up to £50,000 DOE
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Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal FTC in Tranent employer: Animals 1st Vets
At Animals 1st, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment for our veterinary team. Located in the picturesque East Lothian, our practice not only offers a fulfilling career with opportunities for professional growth but also provides an exceptional quality of life with access to beautiful countryside and seaside living. With a strong emphasis on high clinical standards, ongoing development, and a positive culture, we ensure that our employees feel valued and empowered to deliver the best care for our patients and clients.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal FTC in Tranent
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Animals 1st Vets often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Animals 1st Vets
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Animals 1st Vets. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Animals 1st Vets.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Animals 1st Vets.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Animals 1st Vets.
