Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon

Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon Colchester Vets4Pets 24hr Referral Hospital | 7 on / 21 off Rota

We are looking for an experienced and confident Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon to join our dedicated Emergency and Critical Care team at our modern, purpose-built referral hospital in Colchester.

This is a rare opportunity to work a highly attractive 7 nights on, 21 nights off rota in a well-supported environment, with access to excellent facilities and a genuinely collaborative team.

The Role

You will be responsible for managing emergency and critical care cases overnight, providing high-quality care for hospitalised patients, and delivering excellent clinical decision-making during the out-of-hours period.

You will work alongside another ECC vet, two dedicated night RVNs and have full access to our day referral team for advice and support when needed. This is not a lone-working role - you will be part of a structured night team with strong backup.

The role offers excellent exposure to a wide variety of interesting and often complex emergency cases, with the opportunity to further develop your ECC skills in a supportive setting.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Exceptional work-life balance - 7 nights on, followed by 21 nights off, giving you long, uninterrupted periods away from work.
• Strong night team support - You will work with another ECC vet, two night RVNs plus very helpful and talented auxiliary staff, with additional clinical support available from our day team.
• Modern, well-equipped hospital - Purpose-built referral facility with CT, high and low flow oxygen therapy (Vapotherm), Mindray D30 defibrillator added to an extensively equipped crash trolley, environmentally controlled ICU enclosures, POCUS, endoscopy, and more.
• Collaborative ECC team - Join a team of 5 ECC vets (including residency-trained head of department, advanced practitioners and certificate holders). Two ECC vets are rostered daily with good overlap during peak hours.
• Genuine development opportunities - We actively support further training, whether that’s pursuing a certificate in ECC or another area of interest.
• Positive, respectful culture - We value our night vets and the vital role they play. You’ll be joining a stable, friendly and fully engaged multidisciplinary team of over 30 clinicians.
• Nearby Accommodation available during your working stints

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a confident, experienced veterinary surgeon with a genuine interest in emergency and critical care. You may already have ECC experience or be a capable all-rounder who enjoys the variety and challenge of out-of-hours work.

Full support and structured handover processes are in place, so you won’t be left to manage complex cases in isolation.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate starting from £60 per hour, depending on experience
• 7 on / 21 off rota (excellent work-life balance)
• Opportunity to develop your ECC skills with supported CPD
• Modern very well equipped facilities and a strong, collaborative team culture

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Interested?

We’d love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion or to apply, 

Please get in touch with JF Nell (JVP) jf.nell@vets4pets.com

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer