Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Ballyclare

Clare Veterinary Group is looking for a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly and experienced team in Ballyclare. This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a progressive, multi-site practice that combines an interesting and varied caseload with genuine clinical support, excellent facilities and a rota designed to promote a healthy work-life balance.

A Role That Offers Variety, Challenge and Support

Clare Veterinary Group is a well-established mixed practice with a strong reputation across County Antrim and beyond. While this role is focused entirely on small animal work, you’ll benefit from being part of a larger veterinary team with a wealth of experience and expertise across multiple disciplines. Our caseload is varied and rewarding, spanning both medical and surgical cases with minimal referrals. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of services in-house, allowing our vets to work cases up thoroughly while delivering continuity of care to patients and clients.

• From routine consultations and preventative healthcare to diagnostic investigations, surgery, dentistry, imaging and emergency care, no two days are the same.

A Team You’ll Be Proud to Join

You’ll be joining a highly supportive and collaborative team of veterinary professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional care. Across the group, our veterinary team includes 25 vets, two of whom hold certificates, supported by 10 Registered Veterinary Nurses, five Student Veterinary Nurses, dedicated clinical support colleagues and an experienced reception and administration team. We believe that great veterinary medicine is built on teamwork. Case discussions, shared learning and supporting one another are an integral part of daily practice, creating an environment where both experienced vets and those earlier in their careers can thrive.

Modern Facilities Across a Growing Practice

Clare Veterinary Group operates from a purpose-built main site in Ballyclare, alongside three additional small animal branches in Whiteabbey, Carrickfergus and Cavehill. We are equipped to provide a wide range of services and procedures in-house. Our facilities support advanced diagnostics, digital imaging, dentistry, soft tissue surgery, non-complex orthopaedics, an in-house laboratory and 24-hour patient care through our own out-of-hours service.

Built Around Work-Life Balance

We recognise that a fulfilling veterinary career should work alongside life outside of practice. Our rota has been carefully structured to provide variety while supporting wellbeing. The role includes a shared weekend rota of 1 in 4 weekends, alternating between first and second on-call responsibilities. Sunday duties are compensated with an additional half day off in lieu, and the rota also includes two Friday half-days per month. There is a weekly first-on-call commitment of one evening every fortnight, and the overall structure provides the opportunity for a regular day off each week, helping to create a sustainable balance between professional and personal commitments.

Grow Your Career Your Way

Clare Veterinary Group is a practice that actively encourages professional development. Whether you’re already pursuing a particular interest or looking to explore new areas of clinical practice, you’ll find both encouragement and practical support to help you achieve your goals. With a large experienced team, a strong in-house caseload and a culture of continuous learning, this is an excellent environment for career progression.

Life in Ballyclare

Located just outside Belfast, Ballyclare offers the perfect blend of accessibility, affordability and lifestyle. With Belfast city centre less than thirty minutes away, you’ll benefit from excellent shopping, dining and entertainment while enjoying the relaxed pace of a thriving local community. The stunning North Coast, the Glens of Antrim and the Causeway Coast are all within easy reach, providing endless opportunities for walking, cycling, surfing and exploring some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery.

What We’re Looking For

We’re keen to hear from Veterinary Surgeons who are passionate about providing outstanding patient care and building strong relationships with clients. You’ll enjoy working as part of a collaborative team, be comfortable managing a varied first-opinion caseload and have a genuine commitment to clinical excellence. While previous experience is welcomed, we are happy to consider applications from vets at different stages of their careers who are eager to learn and contribute positively to the team. Applicants must be registered with the RCVS and eligible to work in Northern Ireland.

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

• 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

We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world-class learning resources. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, Inspiring Vet Care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.