Mixed Veterinary Surgeon

Shetland Vets; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary practice in the Shetland Islands is seeking two experienced mixed vets to join their friendly team. The role offers a variety of caseloads and the chance to live in a stunning environment with a supportive community. You will work across three locations, enjoy a work-life balance with a 4-day workweek, and receive a competitive salary between £40,000 to £56,000, along with a relocation package and accommodation support.

Benefits

Relocation package up to £5,000

6 weeks annual leave

Employee-owned profit share scheme

CPD fully supported

Qualifications

• Ideally, a couple of years of experience in mixed practice.
• Ready to embrace the variety of Shetland life.

Responsibilities

• Consultations and operations at three practices.
• Rotating and visiting outer islands.
• Managing a varied caseload from small to large animals.

Skills

Experience in mixed practice

Strong communication skills

Ability to work autonomously

Education

Veterinary degree

Job description

Ever dreamed of combining a fulfilling veterinary career with breathtaking scenery, a welcoming community, and a lifestyle that’s truly one of a kind? At Shetland Vets, the UK’s most northerly practice, that dream can become a reality.

About Us

We’re proud to be the only veterinary practice in Shetland, with three sites spread across the islands. As an employee‑owned practice, our team is at the heart of everything we do. We share responsibility, pull together to deliver excellent care for our clients and patients, and share in the rewards – when the practice thrives, so do you. With demand for our services growing, we’re excited to welcome two mixed vets to join our team.

Our caseload is wonderfully varied: around 75 % small animal, 20 % farm (mainly beef and sheep), and 5 % equine, with the occasional wildlife case thrown in for good measure.

So, what’s it like working and living here? Debbie, an RVN and one of our directors, says it best:

"Shetland Vets is a fantastic place to work. As the only practice in the Islands, we see anything and everything that could possibly come our way. From cats to cows and wallabies to seals, if it’s here, there’s a chance we’ll treat it. It’s busy, but never boring, and the team always manages to have a laugh along the way!"

And when it comes to settling into life here, our newest vet, Elaine, puts it beautifully: "A Vet colleague once told me living in Shetland is like living in the 80s… with internet! She was half right. Wide expanses of unspoilt landscape, quiet roads, Sunday teas, and 5:30 finishes – but with an inclusive welcoming community, modern facilities, excellent colleagues, and with only 1 in 5 on call, the work‑life balance is great."

Our supportive and friendly team includes four mixed vets, one small animal vet, and an outstanding group of RVNs, ACAs, receptionists and admin staff. With interests spanning orthopaedics and ophthalmology to farm animal health, our vets bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge, making working here both collaborative and inspiring.

As the only veterinary practice in Shetland, we see a little bit of everything and cover all of the inhabited islands’ veterinary needs. This variety gives you the freedom to develop your skills across all areas, and like our caseload, life here is diverse and exciting.

In 2025, we’ll celebrate 40 years of caring for Shetland animals – and we’d love you to be part of our story as that journey continues.

Our Values

At Shetland Vets, our values aren’t just words on a page; they guide how we care for animals, support our clients, and work together every day. We combine compassion with professionalism, strive to deliver the very best service, and invest in the growth of our people and our practice. Just as importantly, we’re committed to looking after the islands we call home, reducing our environmental impact and ensuring our work today helps safeguard Shetland’s future.

The Role

We’re looking for two experienced mixed vets to join us. Ideally, you’ll have a couple of years in mixed practice behind you and be ready to embrace the variety that Shetland life brings. A typical week will see you rotating between our three practices for consultations, operating, and visits, with the chance to hop on a ferry to the outer islands for those confident in sole charge. We provide weekly visits to Unst and Yell with occasional visits to Whalsay, as well as ad‑hoc trips to other islands.

Rotations & Work‑life balance

• 4‑day working week: Typically, 8:30–5:30, with the occasional later finish (10‑7)
• One weeknight on call – if it’s your weekend, that night simply moves to Friday
• 1 in 5 weekends on call, which includes Saturday morning consults (9–1), with the Monday off in lieu (on top of your regular day off)

Yes, there’s some sole charge, but you’ll never be on your own. There’s always support at the end of the phone, and our fantastic nurses are on call with you to assist when needed.

What we offer

• Salary £40,000–£56,000, depending on experience
• Employee‑owned profit share scheme
• Out of hours bonus
• Relocation package of up to £5,000 available for the right candidate
• Temporary accommodation available as you settle in
• Practice vehicle provided
• 6 weeks’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
• CPD fully supported
• RCVS and VDS fees paid
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme & wellbeing portal

Life in Shetland

If you’re after a lifestyle change, Shetland has it all – and was ranked number six in Lonely Planet’s list of top European destinations (the only UK location to feature!).

Culture & Events

From the fiery spectacles of Up Helly Aa from January to March to the Folk Festival and Wool Week, there’s always something to look forward to.

Outdoors

Rugged coastlines, kayaking, hiking, cycling, wild swimming, golf, and skies lit by the Northern Lights, what more could you need? At 60 degrees North, mid‑summer offers 19 hours of daylight.

Wildlife

Puffins, orca, otters, seabirds galore – the islands are a paradise for nature lovers.

Education

Excellent primary, high schools, and higher education opportunities through Shetland College (UHI) and the North Atlantic Fisheries College – Shetland offer excellent options for families.

Housing

From traditional rural cottages to modern family homes with stunning sea views and town‑centre flats, there’s something for everyone.

Sports & Leisure

Six main leisure centres with great facilities, countless clubs and community groups, plus a thriving arts, music, and craft scene. Travel connections are good, too: daily flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, plus overnight ferries to the mainland. And as an island resident, you’ll also get discounts on flights and ferries, making it easier (and cheaper) to visit the mainland.

So, why not make the move to Shetland? With an incredible caseload, a supportive team, and scenery you’ll never forget, this is your chance to combine a career you love with a lifestyle like no other. Get in touch for an informal chat or apply now – your Shetland adventure starts here.