Veterinary Surgeon – Advanced Hospital Facilities & Flexible Working
St Helens, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
Hospital role with advanced imaging, flexible working options, strong clinical support, and opportunities for surgical, medical, and diagnostic development.
Who They Are
This is a Tier‑3 standard small animal hospital based in the North West, positioned between Liverpool and Manchester and within easy reach of the Welsh borders and Lake District. The clinic is equipped with a comprehensive range of modern diagnostics including digital radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, dental imaging, CO₂ laser, laparoscopy, 64‑slice CT, and 1.5T MRI.
As a training hospital with certificate holders across medicine, surgery, and diagnostic imaging, the team offers a collaborative environment focused on clinical quality, shared learning, and professional development. Their close working relationship with a dedicated referral service further supports case progression, complex work‑ups, and advanced clinical exposure.
The location provides excellent transport links, major city access, and countryside attractions, supporting a strong work–life balance.
What You’ll Do
- Provide first‑opinion care, including consultations, routine surgical procedures such as neutering, and general case management.
- Work a combination of branch and hospital‑based shifts, with approximately 50% sole‑charge branch work (or branch‑focused with hospital support if preferred).
- Utilise the hospital’s advanced diagnostic equipment to support evidence‑based decision‑making.
- Communicate clearly with clients, presenting treatment options and follow‑up plans aligned with best practice and patient welfare.
- Collaborate with a large team of vets, nurses, and support staff, ensuring smooth clinical flow and continuity of care.
- Participate in a flexible rota including weekends and occasional out‑of‑hours cover for holiday or sickness.
What You’ll Gain From Them
- Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£38,000–£60,000).
- Flexible working arrangements, including a 4‑day week and adaptable weekend patterns:
- 1 in 8 full weekends or
- 2 Saturdays + 1 Sunday in 8 weeks
- Access to advanced diagnostics and a varied caseload supporting growth in:
- Medical work‑ups
- Soft‑tissue surgery
- Diagnostic imaging
- Complex case management
- Development support through a generous £1,750 CPD allowance + 1 week’s CPD leave.
- Paid RCVS, VDS, and professional memberships.
- A comprehensive benefits package including:
- 6.6 weeks’ annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Staff discount scheme
- Enhanced family leave
- Optional private medical insurance
- Wellbeing support programmes
- Healthshield employee assistance
- Cycle‑to‑Work scheme
What They Need From You
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RCVS Registration – eligibility to practise as a Veterinary Surgeon in the UK.
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Clinical Capability – ability to manage first‑opinion consultations and routine surgical procedures.
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Decision‑Making & Case Management – confidence working independently during sole‑charge periods.
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Client Communication – ability to present clinical information clearly and support clients in decision‑making.
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Team Collaboration – willingness to contribute to a multi‑vet, multi‑disciplinary clinical environment.
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Continuous Development – engagement with ongoing CPD and reflective practice.
What’s Next
- Submit your CV for review.
- GVC will contact you to discuss your experience, preferred working patterns, and development goals.
- Next steps typically include a clinical discussion and formal interview.