Veterinary Nurse - Small Animal

Kernow Vet Group; Ireland; On-site; EUR 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive veterinary practice in Ireland seeks a Veterinary Nurse to join their supportive team. The role offers an opportunity for new graduates with comprehensive training, as well as experienced nurses. Responsibilities include clinical nursing, surgical rotation, and inpatient care with no out-of-hours commitments. The practice emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, employee wellbeing, and continuous professional development like funding for postgraduate certificates.

Benefits

22 days annual leave

Paid Maternity and Paternity leave

CPD allowance

Employee pension contributions

Various discounts and wellbeing programs

Qualifications

• Registered with the Veterinary Council of Ireland to practice veterinary nursing.
• Experience in veterinary nursing, supportive training provided for new graduates.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical nursing and inpatient care in a supportive environment.
• Participate in surgical rotations and nurse clinics without out-of-hours duties.
• Maintain high clinical standards while contributing to team success.

Skills

Team Spirit

Veterinary Nursing

Communication

Education

VCI Registration

Job description

Salary up to €40,000 commensurate with experience level

The Role

We’re looking for a Veterinary Nurse to join our friendly and supportive hospital team in Raheny. This role is suitable for both:

• New graduate nurses – we’ll provide full support, structured training, and mentorship.
• Experienced nurses – we’ll encourage you to continue developing and will fully fund postgraduate certificates if you’d like to pursue them.

Your duties will be varied, including clinical nursing, surgical rotations, inpatient care, and running nurse clinics. With no out-of-hours or on-call, you’ll enjoy a healthy work-life balance while still being part of a busy, rewarding hospital environment.

About Us

Raheny Veterinary Hospital has been proudly serving the local community for generations, building trusted relationships with pet owners who value our approachable and compassionate care. We’re more than just a veterinary practice – we’re part of the community, dedicated to supporting pets and their families through every stage of life.

Our hospital is modern, well‑equipped, and designed to handle a wide variety of cases. Facilities include two fully equipped operating theatres, an in‑house laboratory, digital radiography, dental suite with dental X‑ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, ECG and blood pressure monitoring, and laparoscopic equipment. We also provide 24‑hour emergency cover, ensuring continuity of care when it’s needed most.

What really sets us apart is our team. With 8 experienced Vets, 7 skilled Nurses, 2 Animal Care Assistants, and 9 support staff, we’re a close‑knit, collaborative group who genuinely enjoy working together. From reception through to theatre, every team member plays a vital role in making sure our patients receive the very best care.

If you’re looking to join a practice where high clinical standards go hand‑in‑hand with a friendly, supportive culture, Raheny Vets could be the perfect place for you.

What We Are Looking For

• VCI Registration: All applicants must be registered with the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) to practice veterinary nursing.
• Experience: While we welcome applications from all experience levels, we provide strong support for new graduates with tailored training and mentoring via our Nurse Graduate Academy.
• Team Spirit: We are looking for a friendly, motivated RVN who thrives in a collaborative team environment and shares our passion for animal care.

Benefits – subject to pro rata

We recognise that our people are fundamental to the success of our business. Investing in our staff, premises and processes is at the heart of what we do. In addition to a competitive salary, you will also benefit from:

Work life balance

• 22 days annual leave entitlement
• Birthday leave

Focus on employee wellbeing

• Paid Maternity, Paternity and Adoptive leave packages
• Cycle to work scheme
• EAP and wellbeing centre access
• Company sick pay

Development

• €600 annual CPD allowance with 3 days paid (pro‑rata)
• Bespoke Graduate Nurse Academy, Nurse Evolve and many more in‑house academies
• Funding of any Certificates / Diplomas / PhD’s you may want to pursue
• Leadership Academy for all future leaders, including Head Nurses and Practice Managers
• Career progression opportunities

Professional memberships

• VCI membership paid
• VDS cover paid

Additional benefits

• Annual pay reviews
• Pawesome benefits – various discounts including retails and virtual gym
• Employee pension contributions
• Discounted staff pet veterinary fees
• Relocation packages
• Free flu jabs
• Opportunity to join company programmes (LGBTQIA+, Wellbeing Champions, Nurse Committee, Clinical Board and many more)

As a BAME and LGBTQIA+ inclusive employer, 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.

Join Us

If you’re looking for a role where you’ll be supported, encouraged, and given space to grow – all while working with a team that feels more like family – then Raheny Veterinary Hospital could be the perfect fit for you.

Apply today and take the next step in your veterinary nursing career with us.

Any questions before applying?

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