Mixed Veterinary Surgeon

Ever dreamed of combining a fulfilling veterinary career with breathtaking scenery, a welcoming community, and a lifestyle that’s truly one of a kind? At Shetland Vets, the UK’s most northerly practice, that dream can become a reality.

We’re proud to be the only veterinary practice in Shetland
, with three sites spread across the islands. As an employee‑owned practice
, our team is at the heart of everything we do. We share responsibility, pull together to deliver excellent care for our clients and patients, and share in the rewards – when the practice thrives, so do you. With demand for our services growing, we’re excited to welcome two mixed vets to join our team.

Our caseload is wonderfully varied: around 75 % small animal
, 20 % farm (mainly beef and sheep), and 5 % equine
, with the occasional wildlife case thrown in for good measure.

So, what’s it like working and living here? Debbie, an RVN and one of our directors, says it best:

"Shetland Vets is a fantastic place to work. As the only practice in the Islands, we see anything and everything that could possibly come our way. From cats to cows and wallabies to seals, if it’s here, there’s a chance we’ll treat it. It’s busy, but never boring, and the team always manages to have a laugh along the way!"

And when it comes to settling into life here, our newest vet, Elaine, puts it beautifully: "A Vet colleague once told me living in Shetland is like living in the 80s… with internet! She was half right. Wide expanses of unspoilt landscape, quiet roads, Sunday teas, and 5:30 finishes – but with an inclusive welcoming community, modern facilities, excellent colleagues, and with only 1 in 5 on call, the work‑life balance is great."

Our supportive and friendly team includes four mixed vets, one small animal vet, and an outstanding group of RVNs, ACAs, receptionists and admin staff. With interests spanning orthopaedics and ophthalmology to farm animal health, our vets bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge, making working here both collaborative and inspiring.

As the only veterinary practice in Shetland, we see a little bit of everything and cover all of the inhabited islands’ veterinary needs. This variety gives you the freedom to develop your skills across all areas, and like our caseload, life here is diverse and exciting.

In 2025, we’ll celebrate 40 years of caring for Shetland animals – and we’d love you to be part of our story as that journey continues.

At Shetland Vets, our values aren’t just words on a page; they guide how we care for animals, support our clients, and work together every day. We combine compassion with professionalism, strive to deliver the very best service, and invest in the growth of our people and our practice. Just as importantly, we’re committed to looking after the islands we call home, reducing our environmental impact and ensuring our work today helps safeguard Shetland’s future.

We’re looking for two experienced mixed vets to join us. Ideally, you’ll have a couple of years in mixed practice behind you and be ready to embrace the variety that Shetland life brings. A typical week will see you rotating between our three practices for consultations, operating, and visits, with the chance to hop on a ferry to the outer islands for those confident in sole charge.

We provide weekly visits to Unst and Yell with occasional visits to Whalsay, as well as ad‑hoc trips to other islands.

• 4‑day working week
  :
  Typically, 8:30–5:30, with the occasional later finish (10‑7)
• One weeknight on call – if it’s your weekend, that night simply moves to Friday
• 1 in 5 weekends on call
  , which includes Saturday morning consults (9–1), with the Monday off in lieu (on top of your regular day off)

Yes, there’s some sole charge, but you’ll never be on your own. There’s always support at the end of the phone, and our fantastic nurses are on call with you to assist when needed.

• Salary £40,000–£56,000
  , depending on experience
• Employee‑owned profit share scheme
• Out of hours bonus
• Relocation package of up to £5,000 available for the right candidate
• Temporary accommodation available as you settle in
• Pra…