Registered Veterinary Nurse (Fixed-Term – Maternity Cover)

Location: Essex
Job Type: Full Time | Salary: From £29,000 DOE

We are currently working with a well-established, progressive veterinary hospital in Essex to recruit two Registered Veterinary Nurses on a 12-month fixed-term basis (maternity cover).

These positions offer a fantastic opportunity for experienced RVNs to step into a role with increased responsibility, supporting the team during the absence of senior nurses while gaining valuable leadership exposure within a busy hospital environment.

The Practice

This is a busy, well-equipped hospital site supported by several branch practices, with a strong reputation for delivering high standards of patient care. The team includes experienced clinicians and multiple certificate holders, working collaboratively in a supportive environment.

Facilities include:

• CT & MRI
• Laparoscopy
• Rigid & flexible endoscopy
• Ultrasonography
• Dental X-ray
• In-house laboratory

The practice is also ISFM Silver Cat Friendly accredited, reflecting its commitment to patient wellbeing.

The Role

This role is ideal for a confident RVN looking to build on their clinical experience and gain leadership exposure.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the hospital team in the absence of Lead Nurses
• Taking ownership of key areas such as:
  • Stock control and ordering
  • Laboratory support
  • Dentistry
  • Other clinical areas based on experience
• Mentoring and supporting student nurses (clinical coaching desirable)
• Working closely with senior leadership and the wider nursing team

Working pattern:

• 40 hours per week
• Flexible rota (4 x 10-hour days or 5 x 8-hour days)
• Rotating early, late, and occasional twilight shifts
• 1:6 weekend rota with time off in lieu
• No out-of-hours (dedicated night team in place)

About You

We’re looking for a nurse who is:

• RCVS registered
• Ideally 1+ year qualified (strong candidates with less experience considered)
• Confident, proactive, and team-focused
• Interested in leadership and development opportunities
• A strong communicator with a collaborative approach

This role would particularly suit an RVN looking to step up and gain leadership experience without moving into a permanent senior position just yet.

Development & Progression

• Funded external CPD and extensive internal training programmes
• Support for further qualifications
• Exposure to hospital-level nursing and advanced procedures
• Opportunity to work across both hospital and branch settings

While this is a fixed-term role, there may be future permanent opportunities within the wider group.

Benefits

• 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays + birthday leave
• RCVS & VDS fees paid
• External CPD funded + CPD days
• Pension scheme with employer contribution
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Enhanced sickness and family leave
• Cycle to work & electric car schemes
• Staff discounts and benefits platform
• Wellbeing support including Employee Assistance Programme, eyecare vouchers & annual flu jab

Why This Role?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking hospital environment in Essex, offering the chance to develop your clinical and leadership skills within a supportive and well-resourced team.

Contact:
Perry Ward
📧 perry.ward@gvcvets.com
📞 01392 401 078