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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a supportive team and provide excellent care to small animals.
- Company: Independent veterinary practice on the beautiful Kent coast.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation package, five weeks holiday, and CPD support.
- Why this job: Restore your love for veterinary work with a balanced lifestyle and collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in general practice preferred, but new graduates are welcome.
- Other info: Enjoy a four-day work week and access to advanced equipment.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 65000 £ per year.
Opportunity for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon seeking more enjoyment from their veterinary career. A new graduate with some experience will also be considered.
About Us
Our independent small-animal practice on the beautiful Kent coast was established in 2016, and we have been growing steadily ever since. We are proud of our loyal client base, friendly atmosphere, and excellent staff retention.
“Working for HVS has restored my love for veterinary and helped me regain a better work-life balance. The four-day week, consistent day off, early finishes and supportive nursing team make a real difference.” - Bonnie MRCVS
The Role
You will join a supportive veterinary team with a wide range of interests who actively share ideas, experience, and clinical discussions. We offer genuine clinical freedom and a collaborative environment where help is always available, whether discussing a medical case or assisting during surgery. You will work alongside an Advanced Practitioner in Ophthalmology and a Certificate Holder in Small Animal Orthopaedics. We encourage vets to pursue special interests and develop new skills. A sensible, pragmatic approach to diagnostics and treatment allows us to manage many cases in-house that might otherwise be referred or limited by finances. We regularly see the positive impact this approach has on job satisfaction and client loyalty. Endoscopy, bronchoscopy, rhinoscopy and ultrasound with Doppler are all on site. Our excellent RVN and SVN team are actively encouraged to use their skills and qualifications to their fullest.
About You
Ideally, you will be confident with routine procedures and have postgraduate experience in general practice. However, we can support and mentor a capable new graduate within our experienced team. Some sole charge is required during colleague holidays. We are forward-thinking and value ideas, enthusiasm, and collaboration. If you have a particular area of interest, we are open to investing in equipment and training to support your development.
Working pattern:
- 4-day week
- 1:4 Saturday mornings (8:30 am–1 pm)
- No OOH
- Clear separation between consulting and operating
- Extra time allocated for complex or first-time procedures
- Part-time hours can be discussed for the right candidate.
We are offering:
- A salary of £38,000 to £65,000
- A relocation package up to £5,000 will be considered for the successful candidate
- Five weeks' holiday, plus bank holidays
- No OOH
- CPD budget with certificates fully supported and funded
- Professional fees for RCVS and VDS
The surgery is based in a gentle residential area. The lovely Kent countryside is only a 10-minute walk away. The whole area is designated as a National Landscape (AONB). The lovely seaside is also only 10 minutes away by car.
Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon employer: Hawkinge Veterinary Surgery
Contact Detail:
Hawkinge Veterinary Surgery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, attend local veterinary events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best work, including case studies or any special interests you have. This will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're passionate about your craft.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence. Focus on common questions and be ready to discuss your experiences and how they align with the role at HVS.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and being part of our supportive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your love for veterinary medicine shine through! Share your experiences and what excites you about working with small animals. A personal touch can really make your application stand out.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with our practice. Highlight any special interests or relevant qualifications, especially if you have experience in areas like ophthalmology or orthopaedics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you want to join our team. Be genuine and express how our values resonate with you. Mention how you can contribute to our supportive environment and collaborative spirit.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawkinge Veterinary Surgery
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around small animal care. Familiarise yourself with common procedures and any specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like endoscopy or ultrasound. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-prepared.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for veterinary medicine shine through during the interview. Talk about why you love working with animals and how you’ve regained your work-life balance, just like Bonnie did. Employers appreciate candidates who are genuinely excited about their role and the impact they can make.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the team dynamics, opportunities for professional development, or how they support new graduates. This shows that you’re not only interested in the position but also in how you can grow within the practice.
✨Be Yourself
Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. The practice values collaboration and a friendly atmosphere, so being authentic will help you connect with the interviewers. Share your experiences and interests, especially if you have a particular area of expertise or a special interest in veterinary medicine.
