At a Glance
- Tasks: Take full clinical ownership and manage a diverse small animal caseload.
- Company: Unicorn Vets, serving the Southampton community for over 30 years.
- Benefits: Up to £75,000 salary, relocation allowance, welcome bonus, and generous leave.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with excellent professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Enjoy autonomy, leadership, and the chance to shape your practice.
- Qualifications: Experienced veterinary surgeon with a passion for patient care.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 75000 £ per year.
Unicorn Vets has proudly served the Southampton community for over 30 years and is now offering an exciting opportunity for a confident Veterinary Surgeon to take full clinical ownership of one of our practices. This role is perfect for an experienced vet who enjoys autonomy, leadership and the freedom to drive a practice forward while delivering outstanding patient care.
A Varied Caseload with Real Continuity
You’ll manage a diverse small animal caseload including cats, dogs, rabbits and small furries, with a balanced mix of consultations and surgery. Case continuity is actively encouraged, giving you the opportunity to work cases up thoroughly while still having the option to refer when needed. With genuine scope to grow the practice and shape services, this role offers the freedom to pursue your own clinical interests while working with a high level of independence.
A Practice Ready for Its Next Chapter
Unicorn Vets operates across two long-standing Southampton sites, Fairfield and Park. This role will be primarily based at the Park branch, giving you the chance to make the practice your own. Set within a converted house and preparing for refurbishment, the practice is already well equipped with digital X-ray, in‑house lab, ultrasound with echocardiography, endoscopy, capnography, tonometry and ECG, enabling thorough and confident case workups.
A Working Pattern That Respects Your Time
This is a full‑time role of 40 hours per week, worked across four or five days with a mix of early and late shifts. There is a 1:6 Saturday morning rota (8:30am–12:30pm), with no out of hours or on call requirements. Part‑time applications are also welcomed.
Independence Backed by a Supportive Team
This is a sole charge role, ideal for a confident vet who enjoys clinical autonomy. You’ll be supported on‑site by two RVNs and a receptionist, with additional support from the wider group and neighbouring practices when needed. We actively encourage professional development and are happy to support certificates or further clinical interests.
Life in Southampton
Southampton offers the best of both worlds, combining coastal living with city convenience. With the New Forest, South Downs and Solent coastline all within easy reach, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Alongside this it offers excellent transport links including direct trains to London.
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: £1250 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 & Nurses can apply for research funding; All our Vets get £1250 per annum to spend via our Care Fund; Infection Prevention and Control Programme; Quality Improvement Programme
- Professional Memberships: BVA membership; VDS cover; RCVS Fees
- Colleague Benefits: Company pension scheme; Supporting a greener commute to work with a Cycle to Work scheme and Green Cars Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria; Voluntary benefits: we give you the 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 - Small Animal in England employer: Unicorn Vets - Park Surgery
Unicorn Vets is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its team members. With a supportive work culture, generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive annual leave, and a commitment to ongoing development, employees can thrive in their roles while enjoying the beautiful coastal city of Southampton. The practice offers autonomy in clinical decision-making, alongside a collaborative environment, making it an ideal place for passionate Veterinary Surgeons to advance their careers.
Contact Details:
Unicorn Vets - Park Surgery Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, attend local veterinary events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Prepare to discuss specific cases you've handled and how you’ve made a difference in your previous roles. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your clinical expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on practices that align with your values and interests. When you find a place that excites you, tailor your approach to show why you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Unicorn Vets, which always makes a great impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in England
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 autonomy, leadership experience, and any specific interests in small animal care to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for veterinary medicine and why you want to join Unicorn Vets. Don’t forget to mention how you can contribute to our practice's next chapter!
Showcase Your Experience:We love seeing real examples of your work! Include details about your caseload management, any surgeries you've performed, and how you've driven practice improvements. This will help us understand your hands-on experience.
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for both of us, apply directly through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Unicorn Vets - Park Surgery
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially regarding small animals. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and how you approached them. This shows your clinical expertise and confidence in managing a varied caseload.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves autonomy and leadership, think of examples where you've taken charge in a practice setting. Highlight your ability to drive a practice forward and how you've contributed to patient care and team dynamics.
✨Understand the Practice's Vision
Research Unicorn Vets and their approach to veterinary care. Familiarise yourself with their values and how they support professional development. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice, such as their plans for refurbishment or how they encourage case continuity. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the practice is the right fit for you.
