Salary up to £65,000 DOE FTE 

For more than a century, Elm Vets has been at the heart of the Plymouth community. Now, we’re excited to welcome an enthusiastic Veterinary Surgeon to our friendly, supportive, and genuinely warm team. With three sites across Plymouth, our main practice in Milehouse and two further branches, you’ll enjoy variety, collaboration, and a full view of the diverse cases and equipment we offer.

As a small animal-only practice, we care for cats, dogs, rabbits, and a whole range of other small pets. Your three day week includes one dedicated surgical day, while your remaining time focuses on medical work ups and general practice duties. Expect a mix of routine surgeries alongside cases in orthopaedics, dermatology, and more, perfect for keeping your skills sharp and your days interesting.

We believe in giving our vets everything they need to excel. You’ll have access to ultrasound, digital and dental X ray, endoscopy, laparoscopic equipment, and a wealth of other diagnostic and surgical tools. Whether you’re already confident in surgery or looking to build on your skills, our experienced team is ready to mentor, support, and encourage you every step of the way.

You’ll be joining a welcoming group of 7 vets, 8 RVNs, 2 VCAs and a fantastic client care team. Among us are certificate holders in ECC and orthopaedics, and we’re always happy to support further certification should you wish to pursue one. With extensive expertise across dermatology, acupuncture, and osteoarthritis, you’ll be surrounded by colleagues who love to share knowledge and help you grow. We’re looking for a confident and enthusiastic vet comfortable with general practice duties. Prefer a consult-only role? We’d be happy to discuss this too.

IVC Evidensia is the UK and Europe’s leading veterinary care group, made up of over 900 practices and referral hospitals, united by a shared purpose of happier animals, happier owners. 
 
At IVC Evidensia, we believe careers should be built without limits. Our people are supported to make more clinical impact, access more career opportunities, and play an active role in their local and professional communities. Through investment in learning, innovation, and wellbeing, we create environments where our teams can grow in confidence, capability, and fulfilment—at every stage of their career. 

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 position is 30 hours per week over 3 days (8:30am–7pm) with 1:6 Saturday mornings, which are consult only and sole charge, though you’ll never be without support if needed. 
•    There’s no OOH or on call work, and we can also consider candidates looking for 20+ hours per week.

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 IVC Evidensia, 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