Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Kernow Vet Group; Bath; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary hospital in Hungerford is seeking a confident Veterinary Surgeon to join their team on a fixed-term contract. The role involves providing care to various animal species, performing both routine and complex surgeries, and engaging with the local community. The ideal candidate will enjoy a supportive working environment with advanced diagnostic and surgical technology. A commitment to animal welfare and a passion for veterinary medicine are essential. The role offers a structured rota with a competitive salary and numerous benefits, including extensive CPD support.

Benefits

6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays

Private Medical Insurance

CPD allowance with paid leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Must be a qualified Veterinary Surgeon with the ability to perform routine and complex surgeries.
• Experience with various animal species and general practice essential.
• Strong understanding of diagnostics and treatment protocols required.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality veterinary care to a range of species.
• Participate in surgeries and consultations in a hospital setting.
• Engage in community outreach and educational initiatives.

Skills

Clinical excellence

Teamwork

Confidence

Education

Veterinary degree

Tools

Digital X-ray

Ultrasound

Endoscopy

Multiparameter monitoring

Job description

Hungerford Vets has been caring for pets and their people for over 50 years and continues to be a cornerstone of the local community. We are now looking for a confident Veterinary Surgeon to join our experienced team on a fixed-term contract, stepping into a role where clinical excellence, teamwork and variety are part of everyday life.

A Caseload That Keeps You Engaged

Our patients include cats, dogs, rabbits, small furries, occasional exotics and wildlife brought in by the local community. As a hospital practice, there is a genuine balance between consultations and theatre time, with a wide mix of routine procedures alongside more complex surgeries, ECC work and referral cases from neighbouring practices. You will be fully supported by advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment including digital X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, multiparameter monitoring, capnography, vessel sealing and electrosurgery. This role does include elements of sole charge, making it ideal for a vet who is confident across all areas of practice.

Two Sites, One High Standard of Care

Hungerford Vets operates across two sites, and you will have the opportunity to work between both. Our main purpose‑built hospital is spacious, bright and thoughtfully designed to support both patient care and team wellbeing. Facilities include a large reception with separate cat and dog waiting areas, four consultation rooms including a dedicated nurse consult room, a large open‑plan prep area with two theatres, a fully equipped dental suite with dental X‑ray, dedicated imaging rooms, and a full IDEXX laboratory. You will also find quiet office space for admin, a comfortable staff area with a well‑stocked snack cupboard, a garden for summer breaks, generous on‑site parking and even kennels for team members who need to bring their dogs to work.

A Rota That Reflects Hospital Practice

This is a full‑time role of 40 hours across four days, Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. Weekends and out‑of‑hours are part of the rota, with on‑call covered from home and time off in lieu provided for both on‑call and weekends worked. The rota runs on a six‑week cycle, offering structure and predictability. This is a fixed‑term contract for nine months.

Strength in Expertise and Team Support

You will be joining a large, knowledgeable team of 12 veterinarians, 14 RVNs and a dedicated client care team. Within the practice there are two certificate holders in surgery, two in medicine and one in ophthalmology, alongside a visiting cardiology diplomate.

Rooted in the Community

Hungerford Vets is proud of its strong links to the local community. The team regularly visits primary schools and nurseries to inspire future vets and animal care professionals, and works closely with charities including Dogs Trust, the RSPCA, Cats Protection and several other local organisations. Giving back is an important part of who we are.

Life in Hungerford and Beyond

Hungerford is a charming historic market town nestled in the Berkshire countryside, offering a wonderful blend of rural calm and everyday convenience. Surrounded by beautiful walking routes, canals and open countryside, it is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors. The town itself has a mix of shops, cafés and a strong sense of community, while excellent transport links provide easy access to Newbury, Reading, Bath and London.

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
• 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
• 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: 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

The Veterinary Hospital, 4a Bath Road, Hungerford, RG17 0HE, United Kingdom

At IVC Evidensia we are a committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long‑term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.

Any questions before applying?

Speak to Amelia Bateman from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.