At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide top-notch care for pets and unique cases like penguins and seals.
- Company: Dorset Coast Vets, a supportive and innovative veterinary practice.
- Benefits: Up to £65,000 salary, relocation allowance, 6.6 weeks holiday, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with no weekends or on-call duties.
- Why this job: Enjoy clinical freedom and the chance to develop your skills in a friendly environment.
- Qualifications: Veterinary degree and registration with RCVS; experience in clinical practice preferred.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Dorset Coast Vets are looking for a Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly and growing team, offering a great opportunity to be part of a practice that truly values clinical freedom, autonomy and high standards of care.
Based at our purpose-built Dorchester site, currently undergoing refurbishment, this role offers the chance to build on an already strong client base. Our caseload is varied, mainly dogs with cats and rabbits, alongside some unique cases through our work with the local Sea Life Centre, including penguins and seals.
You'll enjoy a good balance of consultations and surgery, with flexibility for a consult-only role if preferred. We actively encourage vets to work cases up thoroughly and develop their own clinical interests.
The practice is very well equipped, with advanced facilities including endoscopy, laparoscopy, digital and dental X-ray, ultrasound and a full in house laboratory, as well as access to hydrotherapy, laser therapy and physiotherapy services.
You'll be joining a supportive team of five vets, nine RVNs and a dedicated client care team, led by our Practice Director. With a certificate holder in ECC already in the team, we're also happy to support further development, including certificate study for those looking to progress.
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.
Full time is 40 hours per week over 4 or 5 days, with 2 in 8 Saturdays from 8.30am to 4.30pm. There are no weekends or on call.
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
At IVC Evidensia, we're committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. 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 includes 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, and reduced cost veterinary care for your own pets.
At IVC Evidensia we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, and we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.
If you have any questions before applying, speak to Amelia Bateman from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.
Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon — Autonomy & Growth in Hilton employer: Job Search Place Limited
Dorset Coast Vets is an exceptional employer that prioritises clinical autonomy and professional growth, offering a supportive environment for Veterinary Surgeons to thrive. With a commitment to high standards of care and a collaborative team culture, employees benefit from clear career pathways, funded learning opportunities, and a range of wellbeing initiatives, all while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Dorchester. The practice's advanced facilities and diverse caseload, including unique cases from the local Sea Life Centre, make it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon — Autonomy & Growth in Hilton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field, attend local 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
Prepare for interviews by researching the practice thoroughly. Know their values, services, and any recent news. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you tailor your answers to fit their culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable talking about your experiences and how they relate to the role. The more you rehearse, the more confident you'll feel when it’s showtime!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon — Autonomy & Growth in Hilton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your veterinary qualifications, any relevant experience, and your passion for animal care. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're excited about this role and how you align with our values at Dorset Coast Vets. Share your clinical interests and how you envision contributing to our practice.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We love a collaborative approach! In your application, mention any experiences where you've worked as part of a team. Highlight your communication skills and how you build relationships with clients and colleagues – it’s all about teamwork here!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our practice there. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially regarding small animals like dogs, cats, and rabbits. Familiarise yourself with the unique cases you might encounter, such as those from the local Sea Life Centre. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and ready to tackle any challenge.
✨Showcase Your Autonomy
Dorset Coast Vets values clinical freedom, so be prepared to discuss how you've taken initiative in past roles. Share examples of when you've worked independently on cases or developed your own clinical interests. This will demonstrate that you can thrive in an environment that encourages autonomy.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex cases. Think about how you would explain a diagnosis or treatment plan to a pet owner, as this will highlight your ability to build relationships with clients.
✨Be Open to Learning
The practice is committed to ongoing development, so express your eagerness to learn and grow. Mention any specific areas of interest you have and how you’d like to pursue further training or certifications. This shows that you're proactive and invested in your professional growth.
