Job Description

Location: Swayne & Partners Bury St Edmunds

Job Type: Full-time, 40 hours per week (4 or 5 days, including some weekends on a rota basis)




Clinical Directors: Claire Stratford & Rob Littlechild

Head Nurse: Hayley Patrick



About Us:



Swayne & Partners is a long-established and well-respected veterinary group, recognised within both the local and wider veterinary community for providing outstanding levels of care. Our Bury St Edmunds hospital is at the heart of the group -- a busy 24-hour multidisciplinary site, equipped with advanced facilities including CT and supported by a highly skilled and compassionate team.



About the Role:



We are looking for a dedicated Veterinary Ward Assistant to join our hospital team in Bury St Edmunds. This is a hands-on role supporting our veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses in delivering exceptional patient care. You will assist with the day-to-day care of hospitalised animals, maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the wards and theatre areas, and ensure our patients receive the highest standard of welfare during their stay.



This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about animal care, thrives in a busy clinical environment, and is keen to develop their skills within a supportive veterinary team.



Please note: All tasks are to be completed under the supervision of a Veterinary Surgeon or Registered Veterinary Nurse in accordance with the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.



Key Responsibilities:



Assist the veterinary and nursing teams in caring for hospitalised patients, including feeding, walking, cleaning, and monitoring their condition Support with patient preparation, handling, and post-operative care Maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control standards across all clinical areas Help prepare, clean, and restock surgical equipment and theatre areas (training provided) Update patient records and assist with administrative tasks Handle animals safely, calmly, and compassionately, prioritising their welfare at all times Assist with general hospital duties such as laundry, waste management, and cleaning Provide support to reception as needed, including answering phones and greeting clients Take part in the weekend rota alongside the nursing team

What We're Looking For:


Previous experience working in a veterinary or animal care environment is desirable but not essential -- full training will be provided Compassionate, reliable, and proactive approach to animal care Strong team player with excellent communication and organisation skills Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and patient welfare Enthusiastic and eager to learn within a clinical setting

What We're Offering:


Competitive salary (dependent on experience) 5 weeks annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time roles) Private Healthcare with Vitality Free eye test vouchers and contribution towards glasses for VDU users 3 weeks occupational sickness pay Generous colleague discount scheme for up to 5 registered pets Ongoing in-house training and career development opportunities within the Kin Vet Community




How to Apply:



For a confidential chat, please contact Hayley at the clinic on 01284 701444, or send your CV to Recruitment@kinvet.co.uk