Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

Elm House Veterinary Centre; Essex; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 56,000; Part time

Job summary

A local veterinary practice in Essex is seeking an experienced small animal vet for a part-time maternity cover position. The ideal candidate should be MRCVS qualified with at least two years' experience, confident in routine surgeries, and possess strong client relationship skills. The role includes a 28-30 hour work week across 3 or 4 days with shared Saturday duties. This position offers a competitive salary, a welcoming environment, and a dedicated support team.

Benefits

Supportive team

Competitive salary and benefits

Minimal weekend rota

Qualifications

• At least 2 years' experience in small animal practice.
• Confident in routine surgery and diagnostics.
• Approachable and compassionate with clients.

Responsibilities

• Carry out consultations, diagnostics, and surgeries to a high standard.
• Build trusting relationships with clients and pets.
• Maintain accurate clinical records.
• Support colleagues in a team environment.

Skills

Routine Surgery

General Medicine

Client Focus

Team Collaboration

Education

MRCVS qualification

Job description

About Us

Elm House Vets is a well-established independent small animal practice with a loyal client base and a reputation for providing contextualised care with a personal touch. Our friendly, supportive team values collaboration, clinical excellence, and genuine compassion for our patients and their owners.

We have well-equipped facilities (including digital X-ray, ultrasound, dental X-ray, and an in-house laboratory), enabling our team to provide high-quality veterinary care in a comfortable and efficient setting.

The Role

We’re seeking an experienced small animal vet to join our team for a maternity cover position. The ideal candidate will be confident with consultations, routine surgeries, and case management, and will enjoy working as part of a supportive, close-knit team.

The role is for a 28-30-hour week across either 3 or 4 days with the same fixed day(s) off per week. Saturdays are shared equally on a 1:3 rota from 08:30-12:00 with no OOH.

Key responsibilities include:

• Carrying out consultations, diagnostics, and surgical procedures to a high standard
• Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and their pets
• Contributing positively to the team environment and supporting colleagues where needed
• Maintaining accurate and detailed clinical records

About You

• MRCVS qualified with at least 2 years’ experience in small animal practice
• Confident in routine surgery and general medicine
• Approachable, compassionate, and client-focused
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a team
• Flexible and adaptable, with a positive attitude

What We Offer

• Supportive and experienced veterinary and nursing team
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Minimal weekend rota of 1 in 3 Saturday mornings 8.30-12, no OOH.
• A friendly, welcoming environment where your contribution is truly valued

Job Type: Part-time, Temporary, Fixed-term contract

Contract length: 9-12 months

Salary of £35,000.00-£56,000.00 per year (FTE £43,000-£70,000 dependent on experience