Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in England

Salary up to £65,000 DOE, Welcome bonus up to £5,000 and Relocation Allowance up to £5,000. Otter Vets are looking for a Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly team in Sidmouth, offering a great opportunity for someone who values teamwork, kindness and a genuinely supportive environment.

Our caseload is varied, primarily cats and dogs with some small furries, and the day is well balanced between consultations and surgery, with protected admin time to keep things manageable. Surgical work is mainly routine with set operating days, and we’re very happy to consider a consult‑only role if that’s your preference. While there are some elements of sole charge, support is always close by across both our Sidmouth and Ottery St Mary sites. You’ll be working alongside a fantastic nursing team who play a key role in both consultations and surgery, helping the day run smoothly.

The practice is well equipped with digital X‑ray, ultrasound, tonometry and a full IDEXX suite, allowing you to work cases up confidently. You’ll be joining a close‑knit, collaborative team who enjoy working together, with opportunities to develop your skills further, including support towards certificates if desired.

IVC Evidensia is the UK and Europe’s leading veterinary care group, made up of over 900 practices and referral hospitals, united by a shared purpose of happier animals, happier owners. At IVC Evidensia, we believe careers should be built without limits. Our people are supported to make more clinical impact, access more career opportunities, and play an active role in their local and professional communities. Through investment in learning, innovation, and wellbeing, we create environments where our teams can grow in confidence, capability, and fulfilment—at every stage of their career.

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.

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 a.m. to 1 p.m. There are no out‑of‑hours or on‑call requirements. We’re also open to part‑time hours, school‑time shifts or other flexible working patterns, and are happy to have an honest conversation about what works best for you.

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 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

• 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.