Pets at Home Limited
Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon
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Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon – Colchester (Vets4Pets 24hr Referral Hospital)
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and confident Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon to join our Emergency and Critical Care (ECC) team at our modern, purpose-built referral hospital in Colchester.
This is a unique opportunity to work under a 7 on / 21 off rota in a highly supportive, collaborative environment, with access to excellent facilities and a team that values your contribution.
The Role
As Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon, your responsibilities will include:
- Managing an broad range of emergency and critical care cases overnight
- Providing high-quality clinical decision-making and patient care during out-of-hours periods
- Working alongside another ECC vet, two dedicated night RVNs, and having full access to the day referral team for advice
- Operating as part of a structured night team with strong backup—no lone work
The role delivers:
- Exposure to complex and varied emergency cases, ideal for developing or refining your ECC expertise in a supportive setting
Why This Role Stands Out
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✅ Exceptional work-life balance – 7 nights on, 21 nights off, ensuring long, uninterrupted breaks
✅ Strong night team support
- Collaborate with another ECC vet, two night RVNs, and highly skilled auxiliary staff
- Additional support available from the day team
✅ Modern, world-class facilities
- Purpose-built referral hospital featuring:
- CT scanner
- High and low-flow oxygen therapy (Vapotherm)
- Mindray D30 defibrillator (with crash trolley)
- Environmentally controlled ICU enclosures
- POCUS, endoscopy, and beyond
✅ Collaborative ECC team
- Join a team of 5 ECC vets, including:
- Residency-trained Head of Department
- Advanced Practitioners & Certificate holders
- Dual-day shift coverage with good overlap during peak times
✅ Genuine development opportunities
- Active support for further training, such as ECC certifications or other clinical specialties
✅ Positive, respectful culture
- Established, friendly multidisciplinary team of over 30 clinicians
- Vehement commitment to valuing the crucial role of night vets
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✅ Nearby accommodation available during your working stints
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for a confident, experienced veterinary surgeon with:
- A strong passion for Emergency and Critical Care (ECC), whether through prior experience or as an all-rounder eager to tackle diverse challenges
- Proven ability to perform under pressure in high-pressure, out-of-hours settings
- Willingness to thrive in a structured team environment with structured handover processes
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate, starting from £60/hour (depending on experience and background)
- 7/21 rota – Excellent work-life balance
- Embedded CPD & opportunities to advance your ECC expertise
- World-class facilities and a collaborative team culture
Ready to Join?
If this Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon opportunity excites you, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact JF Nell (JVP) for a confidential discussion or to apply: jf.nell@vets4pets.com
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, celebrating and promoting diversity in all aspects of our organisation.
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