Job Description

Veterinary Surgeon Opportunity -- Small Animal Practice, Hexham, Northumberland

Join our dedicated team and advance your career in a thriving, supportive environment

Are you a passionate veterinary surgeon seeking your next challenge? Do you dream of joining a progressive, well-equipped, and supportive practice in a picturesque part of the country? If so, we invite you to consider joining our small animal practice in beautiful Northumberland.

Practice Overview

Nestled amid the rolling hills and historic streets of Hexham, our practice has earned a reputation for excellence in small animal care. With three modern branches (Hexham, Stocksfield & Bellingham) all conveniently located for the local community, we have grown a loyal client base that appreciates our commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate care.

Our dedicated team comprises six experienced veterinary surgeons and nine registered veterinary nurses (RVNs). Whether you are newly qualified or bring years of expertise, you will find colleagues who are eager to support, mentor, and collaborate, ensuring that every patient receives the very best treatment.

Why Choose Us?

Supportive Team Culture: Work alongside six friendly veterinary surgeons and nine RVNs who value open communication, inclusivity, and teamwork. Our practice culture encourages asking questions, sharing knowledge, and celebrating achievements -- both large and small.

Exceptional Facilities: All three branches are equipped with the latest technology, including laparoscopy, digital dental radiography, and comprehensive laboratory equipment, empowering you to deliver gold standard care. In addition, a weekly specialist ultrasound and endoscopy service enhances our diagnostic and treatment options.

Clinical Excellence: We are proud to have certificate holders in medicine, ophthalmology, and dentistry on our team. Our clinicians actively support each other's professional development, and we foster a continuous learning environment where best practice is always our priority.

Career Development: We offer fully funded Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and actively encourage our team to enrol on certificate-level qualifications. If you're interested in pursuing a further qualification, you'll find encouragement and financial support here.

Role Details

This is a full-time position, with a flexible working pattern designed to support your well-being and work-life balance:

Working Hours: Four-day week, 8:30am to 6:00pm

On-call: One Saturday morning in five

Out-of-hours: One night per week until 10pm, one weekend in five, 7am to 10pm with a generous out-of-hours bonus

Annual Leave: Five weeks plus Bank Holidays

We understand the importance of downtime and family life, and our rota is designed to help you recharge while still engaging in a varied and stimulating caseload.

Remuneration & Benefits

Salary: Up to 60,000 per annum, dependent on experience

Out-of-hours Bonus: Generous additional remuneration for night shifts

CPD: Fully funded, including support for certificate-level study

Annual Leave: Five weeks plus Bank Holidays for a balanced work-life

Support for Well-being: A friendly, understanding environment with regular check-ins and opportunities for informal catch-ups

Generous staff pet discount scheme

Option to bring your pet to work

About You

We're looking for a veterinary surgeon who is enthusiastic, caring, and keen to learn. The ideal candidate will be:

Confident in managing a varied small animal caseload

Open to new techniques and approaches, with an interest in laparoscopy, dentistry, or internal medicine welcomed

Collaborative and empathetic, able to work well within a team and communicate clearly with clients

Keen to develop their skills, with a willingness to engage actively in CPD and further qualifications

Eligible for RCVS registration (new graduates and experienced vets welcome)

Life in Hexham, Northumberland

Hexham is renowned for its beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. Whether you're passionate about outdoor pursuits or cultural activities, you'll find plenty to explore, from riverside walks and cycling trails to independent cafes and the renowned Hexham Abbey. Northumberland is one of England's hidden gems, offering rolling countryside and charming market towns within easy reach of Newcastle.

What Our Team Says

"Working here means being part of a truly supportive team where everyone's expertise is valued."

"The rota gives me flexibility and time to enjoy life outside of work. Hexham is a fantastic place to live, and the practice's reputation means we see an interesting and varied caseload."

How to Apply

If you are ready to take the next step in your veterinary career, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you would be a great fit for our team to our practice manager, Angela on aupshon@orchardhousevets.com.

For an informal chat or to arrange a visit, feel free to get in touch -- we are always happy to show prospective colleagues around and answer any questions!

Location: Hexham, Northumberland

Practice Type: Small Animal (three branches)

Team: Six veterinary surgeons including certificate holders in medicine, ophthalmology, and dentistry, nine RVNs plus a supportive admin team

Facilities: Laparoscopy, digital dental radiography, full lab equipment

Salary: Up to 60,000 per annum plus generous out-of-hours bonus

Working Pattern: Four-day week; one weekend 7am-10pm in six; one night per week until 10pm

Annual Leave: Five weeks plus Bank Holidays

CPD: Funded and encouraged to certificate level

Your Next Step

Joining our Hexham practice is more than a career move -- it's an opportunity to be part of a community that values growth, kindness, and excellence. Help us shape the future of veterinary medicine in Northumberland. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to 60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 10/10/2025