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- Tasks: Lead veterinary initiatives, ensuring animal health and welfare while managing disease control programmes.
- Company: Join a large public sector organisation dedicated to animal health in Newtownards.
- Benefits: Competitive pay rates, on-call allowances, and potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture while working with diverse animal species and stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Must be an MRCVS/FRCVS member or eligible, with two years' experience in farmed animals or public health.
- Other info: Travel required across Northern Ireland; access to transport is essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Veterinary Officer – Newtownards, Newtownards
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Client:
The Recruitment Co
Location:
Newtownards, United Kingdom
Job Category:
Other
–
EU work permit required:
Yes
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Job Reference:
d9e3b9982de0
Job Views:
4
Posted:
29.06.2025
Expiry Date:
13.08.2025
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Job Description:
Our client, A Large public sector organisation, based in Newtownards is looking for an Veterinary Officer to join their team.
Duration: 6 Months with possible extension
Rate of pay: £29.55 (Saturday rate £40.25; Sunday rate £53.66)
Location: Newtownards
Hours: The normal conditioned hours of work are full-time: 37 hours, 7.4 hours per day (excluding meal breaks). In Field posts the hours of work are normally Monday to Friday. In addition, appointees will be required to participate on weekly Veterinary Officer on-call rotas covering weekends and evenings – the on-call rotas are currently under review. An on-call allowance will be paid for any on call rotas in line with the NICS HR Handbook. Along with all staff within the Group, as required, successful candidates will also be required to attend work out of hours in the event of an epizootic disease outbreak. These events are uncommon. Any work outside of normal hours will be paid in line with the NICS HR Handbook.
Main Duties:
As a Field Veterinary Officer, you will be the first point of contact for farmers, private veterinary surgeons, and industry stakeholders, providing essential veterinary leadership at a local level. You will play a key role in ensuring animal health and welfare, supporting trade, and protecting public health by leading disease surveillance, control, and eradication programmes.
Your work will focus on:
· Managing and auditing disease control programmes for enzootic (endemic) and epizootic (high-risk) diseases.
· Ensuring compliance with animal welfare standards and traceability requirements through inspections and enforcement.
· Supporting trade facilitation, ensuring animals and products meet export requirements.
· Providing veterinary expertise across specialisms such as pigs, sheep, and aquatics.
· Offering relief cover for Official Veterinary roles at ports and meat processing facilities. This role requires strong leadership, decision-making, and collaboration, ensuring that Northern Ireland’s agricultural sector remains resilient, compliant, and competitive.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
1a. Be a Member or Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS/FRCVS)
OR
1b. Be eligible to seek membership of the RCVS*
* Please note that the successful applicants, if not already fully registered with the RCVS, will be required to obtain registration in a timescale deemed reasonable by the Department and prior to taking up appointment, and must remain on the register while in the post.
AND
2. Have at least two year’s post-graduation experience working with farmed animals or in veterinary public health
Travel:
The post holder will be required to travel on official duty throughout Northern Ireland, and on occasions, within the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and elsewhere as required. This includes travel to remote and rural locations, often inaccessible by public
transport. It is therefore essential that applicants have access to a form of transport which will permit them to meet the requirements of the post in full, in line with the NICS HR Travel and Subsistence Policy
Medical:
All successful candidates will initially be required to undergo a Tuberculosis assessment if immunity is not already established.
**The successful candidates will be required to start once the vetting paperwork and ANI completed.**
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Veterinary Officer – Newtownards employer: The Recruitment Co
Contact Detail:
The Recruitment Co Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Officer – Newtownards
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the veterinary field, especially those who are already working in public sector roles. Attend local veterinary events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights and potentially refer you for the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific animal health and welfare regulations in Northern Ireland. Understanding local compliance standards will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with farmed animals and any relevant public health initiatives you've been involved in. Highlighting your practical experience will show that you're well-equipped for the responsibilities of the Veterinary Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your leadership and decision-making skills during the interview. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or made critical decisions in challenging situations, as these qualities are essential for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Officer – Newtownards
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Veterinary Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key duties such as disease control, animal welfare compliance, and providing veterinary expertise.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in veterinary public health or working with farmed animals. Make sure to include any specific skills or qualifications that align with the eligibility criteria, such as your membership status with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for animal health and welfare. Discuss how your experience makes you a suitable candidate for the role and mention your ability to work in challenging environments, including on-call duties.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and clearly presented. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Recruitment Co
✨Know Your Veterinary Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the latest veterinary regulations and animal welfare standards in Northern Ireland. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your commitment to compliance and public health.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Veterinary Officer, you'll need strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a project, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Showcase Your Specialisation
Highlight your expertise in specific areas such as pigs, sheep, or aquatics. Be ready to discuss how your knowledge can contribute to disease control and trade facilitation in the agricultural sector.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making and problem-solving skills. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them effectively.
