At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide top-notch care for small animals and enhance your veterinary skills.
- Company: Otter Vets, the UK's leading vet care provider, dedicated to animal health and happiness.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with no on-call duties and a collaborative team atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while working in a supportive and friendly environment.
- Qualifications: Veterinary degree and RCVS registration required; experience in clinical practice preferred.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Otter Vets is looking for a Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly Sidmouth team on a 6-month fixed-term contract, offering a great opportunity to be part of a supportive and well-organised practice. Our caseload provides an enjoyable mix, primarily cats and dogs alongside some small furries, with days thoughtfully structured to feel both balanced and manageable.
You’ll benefit from a healthy split between consultations and surgery, with protected admin time built into each day so you can stay on top of your notes without feeling rushed. Surgical work is mainly routine, with dedicated operating days each week. We’re also happy to support those who would prefer a consult-only role, offering flexibility to suit your interests and strengths.
The practice is well equipped with digital X-ray, ultrasound, tonometry and a full IDEXX suite, enabling you to work cases up thoroughly and confidently. Above all, our focus is on delivering high-quality care within a calm and supportive environment. While the role includes some sole charge, you’ll always have support available, both within the practice and across our nearby branch, ensuring reassurance whenever needed.
You’ll work alongside a fantastic nursing team who actively support both surgical and consulting work, as well as running their own clinics, helping the day run smoothly and collaboratively. You’ll be joining a welcoming team working across two sites, including an experienced vet, two RVNs and four dedicated support team members, with the added benefit of consistent long-term locum support.
How You’ll Make a Difference
As a Primary Care 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.
Role Details
- Full-time role of 40 hours per week
- Worked across four or five days
- 1 in 4 Saturday mornings (8:30am–1:00pm)
- No out-of-hours or on-call requirements
- Part-time applications welcomed
- 6-month fixed-term contract
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
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
- 6.6 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.
Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Sidmouth employer: Ivc
At Otter Vets, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and well-organised practice that prioritises the well-being of our team and the animals in our care. With a focus on professional development, we offer clear career pathways, funded learning opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that fosters growth and camaraderie. Located in the picturesque Ottery St Mary, Devon, our practice provides a balanced workload with protected time for administration, ensuring you can deliver high-quality care without feeling rushed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Sidmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, attend local meet-ups, or 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
Practice your interview skills! Grab a mate and do some mock interviews. Focus on showcasing your passion for animal care and how you can contribute to the team at Otter Vets.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll be part of a community that values your growth and well-being.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Sidmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Veterinary Surgeon role. Highlight your clinical practice experience, communication skills, and any special interests you have in veterinary medicine.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for animal care and how you align with our values at Otter Vets. Don’t forget to mention why you’re excited about joining our team!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We love team players! In your application, share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues in the past. This will show us that you’re not just a great vet, but also a fantastic teammate.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to see your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our friendly Sidmouth team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ivc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around routine medical and surgical cases. Familiarise yourself with the latest practices and technologies, like digital X-ray and ultrasound, as these are key to the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Otter Vets values collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you work within a team. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive clinical culture in your previous roles.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential. Prepare to demonstrate how you build relationships with clients and colleagues. Think of specific instances where your communication made a difference in patient care.
✨Be Open to Learning
Express your proactive approach to learning and development. Mention any CPD courses you've taken or areas you're keen to explore further. This shows you're committed to growing your skills and contributing to the practice.
