Job Description
Build your career where lifestyle meets clinical excellence
If you’re looking for a role that combines advanced clinical work with an exceptional quality of life, this opportunity on England’s South Coast offers exactly that. Based near the stunning Jurassic Coast, this position allows you to develop your surgical expertise while enjoying one of the UK’s most scenic regions.
About the opportunity
This is an exciting chance for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon with a strong interest in surgery to join a modern, recently upgraded 24-hour hospital. The role is ideal for someone who wants to expand their surgical caseload while still maintaining involvement in general practice and patient care.
You’ll be part of a collaborative and knowledgeable team, working in an environment that encourages learning, development, and high clinical standards.
The clinical environment
Dorchester 24-Hour Hospital plays a key role in the region, supporting multiple practices with both routine and out-of-hours care. This ensures a diverse and interesting caseload, ranging from first opinion cases to more advanced referrals.
You’ll work alongside a skilled multidisciplinary team, including professionals with expertise in:
- Cardiology
Diagnostic imaging
Internal medicine
Dermatology
Emergency and critical care
Dentistry (including those working towards certifications)
Facilities designed for high-quality care
The hospital is fully equipped to support both routine and complex procedures, including:
- CT scanner for advanced diagnostics
Laparoscopic surgical equipment
Digital X-ray and ultrasound
Dental X-ray and endoscopy
Dedicated sterile operating theatres
In-house laboratory services
Hydrotherapy unit and physiotherapy support
Separate wards for dogs and cats (ISFM Silver standard)
Isolation units and 24/7 inpatient care
Your role in the team
While your primary focus will be on surgery—particularly orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures—you’ll also contribute to consultations and inpatient care to ensure continuity for patients.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Performing surgical procedures to a high clinical standard
Managing cases from diagnosis through to recovery
Communicating clearly with clients about treatment options
Collaborating with colleagues across disciplines
Supporting less experienced team members when appropriate
Working pattern & salary
- Full-time: Approximately 39 hours per week
Weekend rota: 1 in 6 weekends
Flexible options: Part-time considered
Salary: Starting from £85,000 (depending on experience and qualifications)
Who this role suits
You’ll thrive here if you:
- Hold MRCVS status
Have at least 4 years of UK veterinary experience
Have a strong interest in surgery (certificate holder or working towards one is ideal)
Are confident managing both surgical and medical cases
Value teamwork but can also work independently when needed
What you’ll gain
 Health & Wellbeing
- Private medical insurance and health cash plan from day one
24/7 wellbeing and counselling services
Life assurance (3x salary)
 Time Off
- 5 weeks’ annual leave plus bank holidays
Additional paid personal day each year
Sabbatical opportunities as your career progresses
 Career Development
 Additional Support
 Lifestyle Benefits
About the organisation
Medivet is a leading veterinary care provider with a network of over 400 practices across the UK and Europe. Their approach is centred on delivering excellent care—not just to patients, but also to their teams—by creating supportive workplaces where careers can thrive.
Final note
This role offers a rare combination of advanced clinical exposure, supportive teamwork, and an outstanding coastal lifestyle. If you’re looking to grow your surgical career while enjoying a balanced and fulfilling life outside of work, this could be the perfect next step.
