Portal Official Veterinarian(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role Overview

We are seeking a Portal Official Veterinarian (POV) to manage veterinary controls at Hull and Killingholme ports. You will work a shift rota covering early mornings and weekends, ensuring compliance with UK and EU retained legislation for the inspection of products of animal origin.

This is a key role supporting food safety, public health, and trade integrity. You will act as the veterinary authority on-site, providing expert guidance, certification, and oversight of consignments entering the UK.

Key Responsibilities

As a Portal Official Veterinarian, you will:

Inspection & Certification

• Conduct documentary, identity, and physical checks for all products of animal origin, ensuring compliance with Retained Regulation (EU) 2017/625
  and Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2130
• Issue Common Health Entry Documents for Products (CHED-Ps) and manage rejections following failed checks
• Ensure rejected consignments are disposed of according to Animal By-Products (Enforcement) (England) Regulations 2013

Monitoring & Compliance

• Collect samples for laboratory testing in line with the National Monitoring Plan and Intensified Official Controls
• Maintain accurate records of all consignments, follow-ups, and notifications on IPAFFS (IPAFFS Guidance)
• Support external audits by APHA and FSA, and contribute to internal self-verification audits

Stakeholder Engagement

• Advise importers, agents, and Port Health Officers on regulatory requirements
• Ensure hygienic management of the Port in accordance with EU Hygiene Regulations
  to prevent contamination or risk to consignments
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies in consignment delivery and CHED-P follow-ups

Qualifications & Requirements

• Degree in Veterinary Medicine (Vet Degree Requirements)
• MRCVS registration or eligibility to register (RCVS Registration)
• Previous portal or export experience desirable
• Valid UK driving licence required
• Strong knowledge of veterinary inspection standards, regulatory compliance, and animal health legislation
• Excellent communication, record-keeping, and decision-making skills

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to work at the forefront of animal health and export certification, safeguarding public health while supporting international trade. You will join a professional, supportive team with access to continuous development, training, and career progression.

• Work with nationally recognized food and veterinary authorities (APHA)
• Gain hands-on experience with UK import/export compliance and enforcement
• Be part of a role that has direct impact on food safety, animal welfare, and trade integrity