Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

Hawkinge Veterinary Surgery; England; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary practice on the Kent coast seeks an experienced Veterinary Surgeon or capable new graduate. The role offers clinical freedom and development opportunities with a supportive team. Enjoy a 4-day work week, a generous salary range, a relocation package, and commitment to CPD. The surgery is located close to the beautiful Kent countryside and seaside, offering a balanced work-life environment.

Benefits

Relocation package up to £5,000

Five weeks' holiday plus bank holidays

CPD budget with funded certificates

Professional fees for RCVS and VDS

Qualifications

• Confidence with routine procedures and some postgraduate experience in general practice.
• Ability to work independently during colleague holidays.
• Interest in pursuing special skills and development.

Responsibilities

• Join a supportive veterinary team with clinical freedom and collaboration.
• Manage a variety of cases in-house with a pragmatic approach.
• Support and mentor new graduates if applicable.

Skills

Routine procedures

Communication

Team collaboration

Postgraduate experience

Job description

Opportunity for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon seeking more enjoyment from their veterinary career. A new graduate with some experience will also be considered.

About Us

Our independent small-animal practice on the beautiful Kent coast was established in 2016, and we have been growing steadily ever since. We are proud of our loyal client base, friendly atmosphere, and excellent staff retention.

“Working for HVS has restored my love for veterinary and helped me regain a better work-life balance. The four-day week, consistent day off, early finishes and supportive nursing team make a real difference.”Bonnie MRCVS

The Role

You will join a supportive veterinary team with a wide range of interests who actively share ideas, experience, and clinical discussions. We offer genuine clinical freedom and a collaborative environment where help is always available, whether discussing a medical case or assisting during surgery.

You will work alongside an Advanced Practitioner in Ophthalmology and a Certificate Holder in Small Animal Orthopaedics

We encourage vets to pursue special interests and develop new skills. A sensible, pragmatic approach to diagnostics and treatment allows us to manage many cases in-house that might otherwise be referred or limited by finances. We regularly see the positive impact this approach has on job satisfaction and client loyalty. Endoscopy, bronchoscopy, rhinoscopy and ultrasound with Doppler are all on site.

Our excellent RVN and SVN team are actively encouraged to use their skills and qualifications to their fullest.

About You

Ideally, you will be confident with routine procedures and have postgraduate experience in general practice. However, we can support and mentor a capable new graduate within our experienced team. Some sole charge is required during colleague holidays.

We are forward-thinking and value ideas, enthusiasm, and collaboration. If you have a particular area of interest, we are open to investing in equipment and training to support your development.

Working pattern:

• 4-day week
• 1:4 Saturday mornings (8:30 am–1 pm)
• No OOH
• Clear separation between consulting and operating
• Extra time allocated for complex or first-time procedures
• Part-time hours can be discussed for the right candidate.

We are offering:

• A salary of £38,000 to £65,000
• A relocation package up to £5,000 will be considered for the successful candidate
• Five weeks' holiday, plus bank holidays
• No OOH
• CPD budget with certificates fully supported and funded
• Professional fees for RCVS and VDS

The surgery is based in a gentle residential area. The lovely Kent countryside is only a 10-minute walk away. The whole area is designated as a National Landscape (AONB). The lovely seaside is also only 10 minutes away by car.