Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Highgate Vets; Kendal; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

6.6 weeks’ holiday including bankhols

Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes

Retail discounts and cashback

Reduced-cost veterinary care for your/

Job summary

Highgate Vets in Kendal is seeking a friendly Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join a six-vet team. The role offers clinical freedom, strong support, and a healthy work–life balance, with a varied caseload across two sites.

You’ll be part of a collaborative practice that prioritises patient care and client service, with flexible hours including a four‑day week and 1 in 6 Saturdays, no out‑of‑hours calls, and opportunities to develop clinical interests.

Qualifications

• Veterinary degree and registration with the RCVS (or eligible)
• Strong communication skills and ability to build relationships with clients and colleagues
• Willingness to learn and develop clinical interests

Responsibilities

• Full-time position with a four-day week
• 1 in 6 Saturday mornings
• No out-of-hours or on-call commitments
• Flexible working arrangements including possible part-time options
• Rotational exposure across two sites to provide varied caseload

Skills

Strong communication skills

Team player

Clinical excellence

Education

Veterinary degree and RCVS registration

Job description

Are you looking for a practice where you can enjoy clinical freedom, feel genuinely supported by your colleagues and achieve an excellent work-life balance?

Highgate Vets, part of inspiring vet care, is looking for an enthusiastic Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly, experienced six-vet team. Whether you're an experienced vet or looking to continue developing your skills, this role can be tailored to suit you. You'll be supported by a knowledgeable and collaborative team who are passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and outstanding client service.

At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.

About Highgate Vets

Highgate Vets is a first‑opinion small animal practice based in Kendal, on the southern edge of the beautiful Lake District. We operate across two sites, with our main surgery managing medical and surgical cases and our branch practice focusing on preventative healthcare. Our clinical team rotates between both sites, giving you a varied caseload and exposure to all aspects of first‑opinion practice.

We're proud of our supportive, close‑knit culture where everyone enjoys helping each other develop. Our experienced team encourages clinical discussion, shared learning and pursuing individual interests, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Our Team

• 6 Veterinary Surgeons
• 6 Registered Veterinary Nurses
• 2 Student Veterinary Nurses
• 1 Veterinary Care Assistant
• 6 Receptionists
• 1 Practice Director

Our team is everything!

We're looking for someone who enjoys all aspects of first‑opinion practice and wants to become part of a team that genuinely enjoys working together. Whether you have a particular clinical interest or simply want to become a confident, well‑rounded GP vet, you'll find the support and encouragement to achieve your goals.

Practice Highlights

• IDEXX in‑house laboratory
• Modern ultrasound
• Digital radiography, including dental X‑ray
• Multiparameter monitors
• Infusion pumps
• RCVS Practice Standards accreditation
• RVN Training Practice status
• Cat Friendly accreditation
• Host practice for Pet Blood Bank UK sessions

How You’ll Make a Difference

As a Veterinary Surgeon, you’ll work collaboratively with the wider practice team to deliver a high standard of patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload.

You’ll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You’ll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you.

Key Responsibilities

• Full‑time position working a four‑day week
• 1 in 6 Saturday mornings
• No out‑of‑hours or on‑call commitments
• We recognise that flexibility matters and happy to consider part‑time applications
• Our standard working day runs from 8:00 am to between 6:00-7:00 pm, depending on the rota.

You Might Be a Great Fit If...

You are a confident and motivated veterinary surgeon who enjoys working as part of a team and is committed to delivering high‑quality patient and client care. You’ll bring:

• A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS
• Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
• A proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
• Professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• A passion for delivering excellent patient and client care

How We’ll Support You

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role‑relevant courses
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
• A collaborative, values‑led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement

What We Offer Our Team

• 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
• BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets

We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world‑class learning resources. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.

Up to £65,000 pa DOE