Veterinary Surgery Internship - VRH Dandenong

Greencross Pet Wellness Company; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH) in Melbourne’s South-East is seeking a dedicated Veterinary Surgery Intern for a 12‑month full-time program starting February 2027. The internship offers mentorship from a specialist surgeon and a registrar within a multidisciplinary team, with exposure to advanced surgical techniques.

You will assist in a diverse caseload, participate in imaging and perioperative care, and engage in ongoing academic activities to support professional growth and potential

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualified Veterinarian (DVM, BVSc, or equivalent).
• Eligible for registration with the Veterinary Practitioners Board of Victoria.
• Ideally some prior clinical experience or a rotating internship, but motivated new graduates will also be considered.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist surgeons with consultations, diagnostic procedures, and a wide range of surgical cases including soft tissue, orthopaedic, neurologic, and oncologic procedures.
• Work with surgery nurses to assist with anaesthesia, perioperative care, and patient recovery.
• Manage patient care and case follow-ups in collaboration with senior clinicians.
• Participate in diagnostic imaging, including radiography, CT, and MRI.
• Engage in academic activities such as journal club, weekly intern presentations, physiology tutorials, and mentoring sessions.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Organisation

Motivation to learn

Education

DVM, BVSc, or equivalent

Job description

Veterinary Surgery Internship - VRH Dandenong

• Full-time

The Veterinary Referral Hospital is looking for a new surgical intern. The position would suit someone looking to increase their exposure to specialist surgery or perhaps pursue specialisation. Our surgery department consists of a specialist surgeon and a registrar, both of whom are committed to providing advanced surgical care and dedicated mentorship to the next generation of veterinary surgeons.

VRH is a multi-disciplinary referral hospital and 24/7 Emergency Centre in Melbourne’s South-East. We pride ourselves on being a patient-focused practice, delivering treatment that puts patient care first. We believe the best outcomes come from a collaborative team approach across specialties.

Our hospital is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility. Equipment includes fluoroscopy, 16-slice CT, a 1.5T MRI, digital radiography, and a full suite of surgical instruments, including advanced orthopaedic and soft tissue equipment. A particular focus is minimally invasive surgery. Our surgery team works closely with medicine, neurology, oncology, anaesthesia, and diagnostic imaging specialists, supported by a 24-hour ICU staffed with critical care specialists.

The Opportunity

This is a full-time, 12-month internship within the Surgery Department (Monday to Friday) starting in February 2027. You would be working a 4-day week with no weekends or on call. As an intern, you will:

• Assist our surgeons with consultations, diagnostic procedures, and a wide range of surgical cases, including soft tissue, orthopaedic, neurologic, and oncologic procedures.
• Work alongside our dedicated surgery nurses to assist with anaesthesia, perioperative care, and patient recovery.
• Manage patient care and case follow-ups in collaboration with senior clinicians.
• Participate in diagnostic imaging, including radiography, CT, and MRI.
• Engage in academic activities such as journal club, weekly intern presentations, physiology tutorials, and one-on-one mentoring.

This role provides a fast-paced yet supportive environment where you will see a varied caseload and gain invaluable exposure to specialist-level surgical practice.

About You

• Tertiary qualified Veterinarian (DVM, BVSc, or equivalent)
• Eligible for registration with the Veterinary Practitioners Board of Victoria
• Ideally some prior clinical experience or a rotating internship, but motivated new graduates will also be considered
• Strong teamwork, communication, and organisational skills
• Commitment to professional growth and delivering the highest standard of patient care

Why Should You Join the VRH Team?

• Close mentorship from experienced specialist surgeons with a strong emphasis on skills development and career progression
• Access to a support network of like-minded professionals and a dynamic and supportive team environmentthat values your learning as well as your wellbeing
• Structured opportunities to prepare for Membership examinations or future residency applications
• Continuing education allowance, access to VIN and veterinary journals, and AVA membership
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing support
• Exposure to a diverse and challenging caseload in a modern, purpose-built hospital