Overview
Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal (GP Focus) – Vetcare Athy, Co. Kildare
Full-time, Fixed Term Contract (Part-time considered). Salary up to €70,000 DOE (FTE). Start date from May 2026 (flexible).
A Solid GP Role in a Well-Run, Supportive Practice
Vetcare Athy is seeking a confident, well-rounded small animal Veterinary Surgeon to join the team on a maternity cover contract. This role is ideal for an experienced GP vet who enjoys the rhythm of first opinion practice, is comfortable managing a varied caseload, and takes pride in delivering consistent, high-quality care. You’ll be joining a busy but well-organised clinic where the focus is on doing the fundamentals well. This is a role for someone who values good clinical standards, enjoys building client relationships, and is confident across routine consults, surgery and day-to-day case management.
Responsibilities
The Role - Confident First Opinion Practice
This is a full-time position working 42 hours per week, Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm, with a 1 in 4 Saturday rota from 9:00am to 3:00pm.
You’ll be managing a broad and steady caseload, including consultations, routine surgeries, dentistry and medical work-ups.
The role will suit someone who is comfortable with the pace of general practice and capable of working independently when needed, including periods of sole charge.
There are no out-of-hours requirements, no Sundays and no bank holiday work, giving you a predictable schedule and a good balance outside of work.
Practice Environment
A Practice That Supports Good Clinical Work
Vetcare Athy is the flagship clinic within the Vetcare group, offering a well-equipped and professionally run environment. While the focus remains on first opinion care, the practice also supports more complex case work-ups and procedures, giving you the option to expand your clinical exposure if that’s of interest.
Facilities include digital and dental X-ray, ultrasound and a fully equipped in-house laboratory, allowing you to work cases to a high standard. The team is experienced, approachable and collaborative, creating an environment where you can focus on doing your job well without unnecessary pressure.
Flexible Options
Flexible Options to Suit You
While this is advertised as a full-time position, we are very open to hearing from experienced vets seeking part-time or alternative working patterns. If you’re looking for something that better fits around other commitments, let us know what works for you and we’ll do our best to accommodate where possible.
Who This Role Will Suit
This position is best suited to an experienced Veterinary Surgeon who is confident in routine small animal practice. You’ll be comfortable with consultations, diagnostics, routine soft tissue surgery and dentistry, and happy managing cases from start to finish.
You’ll also be someone who works well within a team, communicates clearly, and takes a practical, steady approach to clinical work.
This is not a role for a new graduate, but it is ideal for a GP vet who enjoys the variety and consistency of first opinion practice and wants to work in a well-supported setting.
Network & Benefits
Part of a Wider, Supportive Network
As part of the Vetcare group and IVC Evidensia, you’ll have access to a wider clinical network, resources and potential future opportunities. While this is a fixed-term contract, it can be a great way to build relationships within the group and explore longer-term options if they arise.
Compensation & Benefits
A Package That Reflects Your Experience
Alongside a competitive salary, you’ll receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and professional development. This includes generous annual leave, paid CPD, professional memberships, wellbeing supports, pension contributions and a range of additional benefits.
Conclusion
A Straightforward, High-Quality GP Role
If you’re looking for a role where you can step in, feel confident in your work, and be part of a supportive, well-run practice, this could be an excellent fit. We’d love to hear from you.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.
Up to €70,000 DOE
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