Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
Unicorn Vets | Southampton, Hampshire
Salary up to £75,000 DOE, up to £5,000 Relocation Allowance, plus Up to £5,000 Welcome Bonus 

This role is suited to an experienced vet who thrives on autonomy, enjoys leading from the front, and is motivated by the opportunity to shape and grow a practice while delivering exceptional patient care.
You will manage a varied small animal caseload, including cats, dogs, rabbits, and small furries, with a healthy balance of consultations and surgical work. Continuity of care is actively encouraged, giving you the chance to fully work up cases and see them through, while still having the support and option to refer where appropriate.
Unicorn Vets operates across two well-established Southampton sites, Fairfield and Park. This role will be primarily based at our Park branch, offering the opportunity to truly make the practice your own.
The practice itself is set within a characterful converted house and is preparing for refurbishment. It is already well-equipped with modern facilities, including digital X-ray, an in-house laboratory, ultrasound with echocardiography, endoscopy, capnography, tonometry, and ECG, supporting thorough, high-quality case work-ups.
This is a sole charge position, ideal for a confident Veterinary Surgeon who values clinical autonomy. You will be supported on-site by two RVNs and a dedicated receptionist, alongside the wider support network of the group and neighbouring practices when needed. We are passionate about development and are happy to support certificates or further clinical interests.

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. 
•    This is a full-time role of 40 hours per week, worked across four or five days with a mix of early and late shifts. There is a 1:6 Saturday morning rota (8:30am–12:30pm), with no out of hours or on call requirements.
•    Part-time applications are also welcomed.

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