Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal (Internal Medicine pathway) in Belfast

A Unique Career-Defining Opportunity

We are pleased to offer an exceptional opportunity for a confident GP Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon with a strong interest in Internal Medicine to join Earlswood Veterinary Hospital. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys first-opinion practice but is ready to take the next step in their clinical development, with a structured and fully supported pathway into referral-level Internal Medicine over a three-year period, through obtaining a Certificate in Small Animal Medicine or supporting the development of an existing certificate holder. This is not an internship or residency. Instead, it is a rare advanced practitioner development role designed to transition an experienced GP vet into a permanent position within our established referral Internal Medicine team.

The Role

Initially, the position is split between busy first-opinion small animal GP work and supervised referral exposure. Approximately two days per week will be spent managing a varied and rewarding GP caseload, while the remaining two days will be dedicated to working alongside our Internal Medicine referral team, gradually building experience, confidence and referral-level competence. Over the course of three years, you will follow a structured training and mentoring programme, with the clear intention of progressing into a full-time Internal Medicine referral role within our hospital. This position is suited to a Veterinary Surgeon with at least a few years’ experience in general practice who is confident delivering high-quality GP care and motivated to advance clinically.

Working Pattern & Work-Life Balance

The ideal working pattern is 35 hours per week across four days, enabling dedicated time outside of work to focus on relaxation, study, learning and professional development. Alternative flexible arrangements can be discussed, including adjusted days or hours, where appropriate. Shifts fall between 8:30am and 7:30pm, Monday to Friday, using a mix of 8-, 9- or 10-hour shifts. Weekend cover is fair and light, currently contracted at one in four, involving a Saturday morning until 12:30pm and a short Sunday shift. There are no out-of-hours or on-call duties, with all emergency and critical care fully managed by Vets Now, who are based on site within the same hospital building.

An Outstanding Clinical Environment

Earlswood Veterinary Hospital is a leading RCVS-accredited general and referral hospital with an outstanding reputation across Ireland. Our referral services include Internal Medicine, Orthopaedics, Neurology, Ophthalmology, Cardiology, Soft Tissue Surgery, Rehabilitation and Pain Management. The hospital is exceptionally well equipped, offering three operating theatres, digital and dental radiography, ultrasound, arthroscopy, fluoroscopy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, an on-site 16-slice CT scanner and visiting high-field MRI. You will be working in an environment that truly supports advanced diagnostics, learning and clinical excellence.

A Highly Skilled and Supportive Team

You will join a large, collaborative team of Veterinary Surgeons, RVNs, ward assistants and support staff, all experienced in managing both GP and referral-level cases. The veterinary team includes multiple certificate holders across Internal Medicine, Surgery, Ophthalmology and Laparoscopy, alongside visiting specialists in Cardiology. Our nurses are highly referral-focused, ensuring excellent patient care, theatre support and continuity throughout referral cases. This is an ideal setting for a Veterinary Surgeon who wants to be surrounded by expertise, mentorship and a genuinely supportive culture.

Professional Development & Education

This role is specifically designed to grow you as a professional. Certificate training in Small Animal Medicine is fully supported and fully funded, with access to the caseload, equipment and mentoring required to progress successfully. The salary for this is competitive, reflecting the significant investment being made in your long-term development. You will also benefit from a generous CPD allowance, paid CPD leave, access to the IVC Evidensia Academy, Vetlexicon, research funding opportunities and clinical quality improvement programmes.

Life at Earlswood & in Belfast

Our hospital has been thoughtfully designed for both pets and people, offering separate dog and cat areas, modern consulting rooms, well-equipped theatres, dedicated recovery and isolation spaces, and comfortable staff areas for downtime. Based in Belfast, you’ll enjoy living in a vibrant, welcoming city known for its culture, history and stunning natural surroundings. From excellent restaurants and nightlife to breathtaking coastal and mountain landscapes, Belfast offers a fantastic quality of life and something for everyone.

How We’ll Support You

• 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

• 7 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 and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets