Veterinary Surgeon – Cornwall

• Competitive salary up to £65,000 DOE, with an extensive benefits package including Private Medical Insurance, health cash plan, life assurance, staff discount, and 5–6 weeks’ annual leave plus a paid “Day for You”
• A balanced full-time schedule with no out-of-hours or bank holiday work, working 4 days per week and only 1 in 3 Saturday mornings, supporting exceptional work–life balance
• Opportunities for professional growth, including £1,500 CPD allowance with 3 days’ paid CPD leave, funded certificate options, internal CPD, and support from a network of experienced vets
• A unique chance to work across two well-equipped practices in a stunning coastal region, offering varied caseloads, supportive teams, and an enviable lifestyle in one of the UK’s most beautiful areas

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Veterinary Surgeon to join a friendly, dedicated, and long-established team, working across two thriving small-animal practices located in some of Cornwall’s most picturesque settings.

Location

One practice is situated in a historic Cornish town renowned for its rich heritage, striking Victorian architecture, flourishing creative arts scene, and welcoming community. With surrounding countryside and close proximity to the coast, it provides an ideal base from which to enjoy Cornwall’s outstanding beaches, rugged coastlines, and scenic walking trails.

The second practice is based in one of the UK’s most iconic seaside towns, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, golden beaches, artistic legacy, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Just a short walk from the beach and town centre, the practice benefits from stunning views across the bay. This location is ideally suited to individuals seeking an exceptional work–life balance in a truly beautiful environment.

The Practices

The first site is a spacious, well-equipped practice featuring four consulting rooms, two theatres, ultrasound, dental X-ray, digital X-ray, and separate dog and cat isolation wards. It proudly holds Silver Cat Friendly Clinic accreditation, reflecting the team’s commitment to providing a calm, feline-friendly environment. Additional facilities include on-site parking and a pleasant garden area for staff relaxation.

The second practice is a compact but well-organised and welcoming surgery, comprising two consulting rooms, a fully equipped theatre and preparation area, an in-house laboratory (haematology and biochemistry), digital X-ray, ultrasound, dental equipment, and separate dog and cat kennels. A spacious reception, staff room, and on-site parking support a smooth and comfortable working day.

The Team

The successful candidate will join a close-knit, supportive team led by two committed Branch Partners who prioritise clinical excellence and professional development. The practices are supported by an experienced nursing team, including a highly skilled Head Nurse, and a loyal group of support staff who bring stability, teamwork, and pride to all aspects of their work.

The role also forms part of a wider network of seven experienced Veterinary Surgeons, several of whom are studying towards certificates in Small Animal Medicine, Cardiology, and Orthopaedics. This creates a dynamic, collaborative environment with substantial opportunities for development, learning, and mentorship.

Candidate Profile

The practices seek an experienced Veterinary Surgeon—ideally with at least three years of UK clinical experience—who is confident working sole charge and competent in routine surgery, diagnostics, and consultations. The ideal candidate will be a strong team player, committed to building long-term client relationships and contributing positively to the wider team.

The Role

This is a permanent, full-time position working 40 hours per week over four days, including participation in a Saturday rota (1 in 3 Saturdays, 8:30am–12:30pm). There are no out-of-hours or bank holiday requirements, supporting an excellent work–life balance and offering ample opportunity to enjoy Cornwall’s relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.

The role offers a balanced mix of time across both practices, ensuring varied caseloads, continuity of care, and the opportunity to work within two supportive, well-established teams.

Key Responsibilities

Client care
• Deliver exceptional client care at all times.
• Address client complaints or concerns raised within the clinic.
• Provide timely updates to clients regarding patient care following procedures.
• Ensure clients receive clear updates for all OOH or enhanced-care cases.

Patient care
• Undertake consultations and procedures as required.
• Maintain full accountability for patient care and monitoring.
• Manage admissions and discharges (depending on complexity).
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date clinical records.
• Complete thorough clinical handovers and arrange transfers for any patient requiring OOH or enhanced care.
• Prescribe medications and complete dispensing checks.
• Deliver all patient care in line with clinical competence and guidance from the Lead Vet where appropriate.

Skills, Knowledge and Experience
• RCVS-registered Veterinary Surgeon.
• Demonstrable clinical leadership skills.
• Commitment to supporting a progressive clinical culture.
• Strong team-working abilities.
• Proven experience delivering high-quality clinical care.
• Understanding of the value of nurse consultations and their contribution to clinic efficiency.
• Skilled in coaching, communication, and influencing to support colleagues’ development.
• Willingness to undertake occasional duties outside core responsibilities, in line with skills and experience, to support the effective running of the clinic.

Benefits
• Competitive salary up to £65,000 DOE
• Private Medical Insurance
• Health cash plan (dental, physio, optical) with 24/7 Private GP access
• Life Assurance (3× salary)
• 24-hour counselling and wellbeing support
• 5 weeks’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 6 weeks with service
• Additional “Day for You”—one paid personal day
• Clinical CPD allowance: £1,500 per annum plus 3 days’ paid CPD leave
• Internal CPD and access to Clinical Communities
• Funded certificate opportunities
• VDS, RCVS and BVA fees paid
• Sabbatical entitlement based on length of service
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Staff discount
• Visa sponsorship (Tier 2) and relocation support available

For more information or for a confidential chat, please contact Megan on 01904 570056 or email m.pinder@purovets.com

To view all our vacancies, please visit https://purovets.com/veterinary-jobs/

And don't forget, if this position is of no interest to you but you know someone who may be interested, please pass on our details. We offer £250* for every successful candidate referral. *Terms and conditions apply.

Ref no:
JOB-56469