Job Description

Veterinary Care Assistant
Coombefield Veterinary Hospital, Axminster, Axminster, South West
Discipline: Clinical Support
Full Time
Up to 25,466 per annum
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to join our busy, RCVS accredited hospital in Axminster.

About the Role

The successful candidate will work across various departments including surgical preparation, kennel duties, reception, pharmacy, and our in-house laboratory. This role demands experience in a veterinary practice and either current enrolment in or completion of a Level 2 Veterinary Care Assistant apprenticeship.

About Us

Coombefield Veterinary Hospital is a large, purpose-built, RCVS accredited hospital located in the heart of Axminster, with a branch practice in Seaton. We are proud to operate the region's only 24-hour care hospital, supported by a dedicated out-of-hours emergency service, Three Counties Veterinary Emergencies. Our facilities are equipped to provide the highest standard of care, supported by an experienced team of 13 veterinary surgeons and 22 nursing staff.

Situated in beautiful East Devon near the Jurassic Coast, our location offers an exceptional quality of life, with excellent transport links including a mainline train to London Waterloo. We actively engage with the local community, collaborating with charities and surrounding practices to promote animal health and welfare.

Our Team and Culture

Our culture is built on inclusivity, respect, and teamwork. We prioritise the wellbeing of our staff through an open-door leadership policy, protected rest and lunch breaks, and a supportive, family-oriented environment. Many of our team members have long-standing careers with us, and we value the positive, collaborative atmosphere we foster.

Who We Are Looking For

We seek a friendly, motivated individual with a caring nature who can work effectively both independently and as part of a team. This role is ideal for candidates who thrive in a fast-paced hospital environment and are eager to gain experience with a diverse caseload. Previous hands-on experience in practice and knowledge of veterinary care is preferred. Candidates currently completing or intending to enrol in the Level 2 VCA apprenticeship are encouraged to apply.

Coombefield Veterinary Hospital is a nurse training practice, offering opportunities for VCAs to progress onto Level 3 Veterinary Nursing apprenticeships, subject to available positions and after successful completion of probation.

Your shift pattern

This role offers up to 40 hours per week, working Monday to Friday with a variable shift pattern that includes early and late shifts between 8:00 am and 9:00 pm. Weekend work is required on a one-in-four rota basis, with time off in lieu provided retrospectively.

In addition to a competitive salary, you will benefit from:

6.6 weeks annual leave Additional annual leave for your birthday which will be added to your holiday allowance Enhanced family-friendly policies, including maternity/ paternity/ adoption/ shared parental and surrogacy pay Cycle to work scheme Initiatives focused on employee wellbeing Non-accidental injury support Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy Pawsome Benefits - reward gateway giving discounts and cashback with 100's of retailers Pension scheme Discounted staff pet care
Coombefield Veterinary Hospital, Axminster
Coombefield Veterinary Hospital, Coombe Lane, Axminster, EX13 5AX, United Kingdom

Animals treated

Dogs, cats & small pets
Exotic Friendly