At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our friendly team to provide quality care for small animals in a supportive environment.
- Company: Otter Vets, a caring practice in beautiful Sidmouth.
- Benefits: Up to £65,000 salary, relocation allowance, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible hours, supportive team, and stunning coastal location.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in pets' lives while enjoying a balanced work-life.
- Qualifications: Veterinary degree and passion for animal care.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Salary up to £65,000 DOE and relocation allowance up to £5,000.
Otter vets are looking for a Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly team in Sidmouth on a 6‑month FTC.
A Caseload Designed to Be Enjoyable and Manageable
Our caseload is a great mix, mostly cats and dogs with a few small furries, and our days are thoughtfully structured to feel balanced and achievable. Time is split well between consultations and surgery, with dedicated admin time built into each day so you can stay on top of notes without feeling rushed. Surgical work is largely routine, with set operating days each week, and if your preference is a consult‑only role, we’re very open to discussing this.
Support When You Need It Most
There are some elements of sole charge within the role, but you’re never truly on your own. Support is always available, both within the practice and across our other branches, giving reassurance and backup whenever it’s needed. You’ll be supported by a brilliant nursing team who assist with both surgery and consultations, as well as running their own nurse clinics, helping the day run smoothly and collaboratively.
Well‑Equipped and Set Up for Quality Care
The practice is well equipped with digital X‑ray, ultrasound, tonometry and a full IDEXX suite, allowing you to work cases up confidently and deliver high‑quality care. Our focus is on doing things properly, without unnecessary pressure or compromise.
Flexible Working That Fits Around You
This is a full‑time role of 40 hours per week, worked across four or five days, with just one in four Saturday mornings from 8:30 am to 1 pm. There are no out‑of‑hours or on‑call requirements. We’re also open to part‑time applications. This is a FTC for 6 months.
A Team That Truly Supports One Another
Our friendly team works across two sites and includes an experienced vet, two dedicated RVNs and four fantastic support team members, with regular long‑term locum support as well.
Life in and Around Sidmouth
Sidmouth is a beautiful seaside town on the Jurassic Coast, offering a relaxed pace of life surrounded by stunning scenery. With coastal walks, independent shops, cafés and easy access to the East Devon countryside, it’s an ideal location for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you’re relocating or already nearby, Sidmouth offers a wonderful balance of work, well‑being and lifestyle.
Because Our People Matter
We recognise that our people are fundamental to the success of our business. Investing in our people, premises and processes is at the heart of what we do. In addition to a competitive base salary, you will benefit from:
- Work‑life balance
- 6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays
- Additional holiday entitlement for your birthday
- Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential helpline)
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay
- Initiatives focused on colleague wellbeing
- Development: £1,250 CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave, certificate support, learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy, access to VetLexicon (our online encyclopaedia provider)
- All our Vets get £1,250 per annum to spend via our Care Fund
- Infection Prevention and Control Programme, Quality Improvement Programme, Professional Memberships (BVA membership, VDS cover, RCVS Fees)
- Company pension scheme (IVC Evidensia will make a contribution as well)
- Supporting a greener commute to work with a Cycle to Work scheme and Green Cars Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria
- Voluntary benefits: flexibility to choose from a range of voluntary benefits to suit you, access to discounts/cashback with hundreds of participating retailers, discounted treatment for your own pets at an IVC Evidensia practice
Veterinary Surgeon or Consult Only - Small Animal in Devon employer: Otter Vets, Ottery St Mary
Contact Detail:
Otter Vets, Ottery St Mary Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon or Consult Only - Small Animal in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, join online forums, and connect with local veterinary groups. 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! Mock interviews with friends or colleagues can help you feel more confident. Focus on showcasing your passion for animal care and how you can contribute to a supportive team like Otter Vets.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the practice! Knowing about Otter Vets’ values, their approach to care, and the community they serve will help you stand out in interviews. It shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at Otter Vets in Sidmouth!
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon or Consult Only - Small Animal in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the role of a Veterinary Surgeon. Highlight any relevant experience with small animals, consultations, and surgeries to show us you’re the right fit for our team.
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re passionate about veterinary care and what excites you about joining our friendly team in Sidmouth. Let us know how you can contribute to our supportive environment.
Showcase Your Soft Skills: We value teamwork and communication just as much as clinical skills. In your application, mention experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively or supported colleagues, as this aligns with our team-oriented approach.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Otter Vets, Ottery St Mary
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially regarding small animals like cats and dogs. Familiarise yourself with common procedures and the equipment mentioned in the job description, such as digital X-ray and ultrasound, so you can confidently discuss your experience and how it aligns with their needs.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Otter vets emphasise a supportive team environment, so be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve worked closely with nursing teams or supported fellow vets, as this will show you’re a great fit for their friendly culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's approach to work-life balance and how they support their staff. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also helps you gauge if their values align with yours, especially regarding the flexible working arrangements they offer.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to showcase your skills, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Otter vets are looking for someone who fits into their friendly team, so being authentic and approachable during the interview can make a big difference. Share your passion for animal care and why you want to join their practice!