Veterinary Officer

Location Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 7EU Salary £37,986.00 -£44,343 per annum Application Deadline Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Job Summary

Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in south west England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff.

Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. Over 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. There are over 230 species of animal that call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we’re also an award-winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record.

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for a Veterinary Officer to join our team at Paignton Zoo.

You will deliver high-quality veterinary care to our diverse animal collection, supporting and advancing preventative health programmes, and contributing to the ongoing development of veterinary services at the zoo. Working across a wide range of taxa—from mammals to invertebrates—you’ll play a key role in promoting the highest standards of animal health and welfare.

This full-time role working 37.5 hours per week over a 7-day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this position is £37,986.00 -£44,343 per annum depending on experience working with exotic species.

The ideal candidate will be a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS) and hold a veterinary degree recognised by the RCVS (or equivalent). Significant experience as a practising veterinary surgeon is essential, and prior work with zoo, wildlife, or exotic species is highly desirable.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are a must, alongside excellent organisational abilities and the capacity to manage a varied workload under tight deadlines. Proficiency in IT, particularly Microsoft Word and Excel, is also required. A full UK driving licence would be desirable.

• 33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays)

• Branded uniform provided (as required)
• Relevant internal and external training providedincluding First Aid and Mental Health First Aid

• Free entry to our zoos for staff and family

• Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)

• Free staff parking

• Employee Assistance Programme

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Job Profile Job Profile document

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