Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Downland Vets - Bognor Regis Salary up to £65,000 DOE Relocation Allowance available

inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.

We are looking for an enthusiastic Veterinary Surgeon who is focused on clinical excellence and teamwork to join us at Downland Veterinary Group working in our clinics in West Sussex. We have a steady caseload and you will have access to first opinion surgical cases and daytime emergencies alongside consults. Consult-only position also available for the right candidate. You’ll be joining an experienced and collaborative team who are keen to welcome new colleagues.

We can offer flexible working patterns that flex with you and your lifestyle.

Our Experienced Team

We have multiple nurse training centres within our group, and have certificate holders in orthopaedics, surgery, medicine, cardiology and imaging.

We also have vets with special interests in dermatology, oncology, ECC and dentistry making it an excellent learning environment. Our team have a wealth of experience and you will be fully supported.

We have 11 vets in West SUssex but across the group, we have circa 30 veterinary surgeons, a nursing team of 70 and a further 50 support colleagues. We are looking for a first opinion vet to join our progressive team – get in touch today no matter what stage you are at in your career.

State of art practices in West Sussex

All of our surgeries are extensively equipped, and we strive for clinical excellence. At our clinics we have DR X-Ray, Dental X-Ray, Ultrasonography, Laparoscopy, Endoscopy, surgical theatres, capnography and in house Lab.

We are well embedded in the local area, having started in 1947. Our clinics in West Sussex are in Bognor, Chichester, Selsey and Barnham, sandwiched between the stunning south coast and the South Downs.

Fantastic outdoor activities are available and yet central London is only 90minutes away by direct train and Gatwick just over an hour.

How You’ll Make a Difference

As a Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon, you’ll work collaboratively with the wider practice team to deliver a high standard of patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload.

You’ll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You’ll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you.

• The candidate will work in our clinics in West Sussex, mainly Bognor and Chichester, alongside our large team of 10 vets, 15 RVNs, and fantastic support staff.
• The position is 40 hours/week and the candidate will participate in the Saturday morning rota but no out of hours

You Might Be a Great Fit If...

You Are a Confident And Motivated Veterinary Surgeon Who Enjoys Working As Part Of a Team And Is Committed To Delivering High-quality Patient And Client Care. You’ll Bring

• A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS
• Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
• A proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
• Professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

How We’ll Support You

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

• Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
• Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
• Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
• A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement

What We Offer Our Team

• 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
• BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
• Retail discounts and cashback offers
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

£0 - £65,000 a year

Up to £65,000 DOE

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.