Veterinary Surgical Intern

About the role

Gainsborough Referrals is looking for a motivated qualified Veterinary Surgeon to join our team as a Surgical Intern.

This is a structured 12-month position designed for a vet with a strong interest in small animal surgery who is looking to develop their clinical confidence, surgical knowledge and referral practice experience. The role would suit someone considering a future certificate, internship, residency, or longer-term career in referral surgery.

You will work closely with Jean-Benoit Lefebvre MVDr DipECVS MRCVS, European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery, and the wider clinical team. The role will provide exposure to a varied referral caseload, including orthopaedic, soft tissue, spinal/neurosurgery and advanced imaging cases.

As a smaller independent referral practice, we are able to offer close supervision, direct access to senior clinicians and meaningful involvement in case management. This is intended to provide a supportive, practical and clinically valuable step for a vet wanting to progress in surgery.

Key responsibilities

The successful candidate will be involved in:

• Assisting with surgical consultations, patient assessments and case work-up
• Supporting the surgical team with orthopaedic and soft tissue procedures
• Helping with inpatient care, post-operative monitoring and recovery
• Assisting with diagnostic imaging, including radiography and CT
• Preparing patients for surgery and supporting theatre workflow
• Maintaining accurate clinical records and communication notes
• Taking part in case discussions, teaching sessions and clinical reviews
• Communicating with clients and referring vets under appropriate supervision
• Working closely with the nursing and clinical support teams to deliver high standards of patient care

What we are looking for

We are looking for a qualified Veterinary Surgeon who is enthusiastic, reliable and genuinely interested in small animal surgery.

You should have:

• MRCVS status, or eligibility to register with the RCVS
• A strong interest in orthopaedic and soft tissue surgery
• Good communication skills
• A compassionate and professional approach to patient care
• The ability to work well as part of a close clinical team
• A willingness to learn, ask questions and develop your clinical judgement
• Previous small animal practice experience would be helpful, but the right attitude and interest in surgery are most important

What we offer

• Salary of £40,000 per annum
• 12-month structured surgical internship
• Direct mentorship from a European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery
• Exposure to a varied referral surgical caseload
• Experience with orthopaedics, soft tissue surgery, CT and spinal/neurosurgery cases
• RCVS and VDS fees paid
• CPD days
• Company pension
• Staff discount
• Free on-site parking
• Supportive independent referral practice environment

About Gainsborough Referrals

Gainsborough Referrals is an independent small animal referral practice based in Lincolnshire. We provide referral services in surgery, neurosurgery/spinal cases and advanced imaging, including CT/MRI.

We are a small, focused team with a strong emphasis on practical training, supportive case discussion and very high standards of patient care. This role offers the right candidate the opportunity to develop in a referral environment while being closely supported by experienced clinicians.

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to:

[email protected]

Informal enquiries are welcome.

Pay: From £40,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person