Veterinary Surgeon Job | Independent Small Animal Practice | No OOHs | Excellent Work-Life Balance Location: Chelmsford, Essex Salary: Up to £70,000 DOE Are you a Veterinary Surgeon looking for your next role in a supportive, independent small animal practice? This is an exciting opportunity to join a family-run, purpose-built veterinary practice in Chelmsford, offering excellent facilities, a friendly team culture, and genuine career development. This role is ideal for a vet looking to progress clinically while maintaining a strong work-life balance. Certificate holders are on hand to provide mentorship, and the practice actively supports further study and CPD. About the Practice This is a progressive, first-opinion small animal practice with a strong focus on clinical standards and client care. The practice is modern, spacious, and exceptionally well-equipped, allowing vets to work cases up to a high level in-house. Facilities include: Large prep room with fully equipped in-house laboratory Dedicated dental suite with dental X-ray Advanced imaging including high-end ultrasound and DR X-ray Modern surgical theatre for soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures Varied and interesting caseload Location – Chelmsford, Essex Chelmsford offers the perfect balance of city living and countryside access. As one of the UK’s most popular commuter locations, it provides excellent transport links to London, great schools, restaurants, and leisure facilities — making it an ideal place to live and work. The Role First opinion small animal veterinary surgeon role Support from experienced vets and certificate holders Ideal for vets with a few years’ experience, but applications welcomed from all confident candidates Emphasis on teamwork, clinical development, and wellbeing Rota & Work-Life Balance 4 days per week Shifts: 8:30am – 7:15pm with a 1-hour lunch break 1 in 4 weekends with generous time off in lieu No out-of-hours Never work more than 4 days in a row Salary & Benefits Package Salary up to £70,000 DOE 5 weeks holiday bank holidays Performance-related bonus Generous CPD allowance Support for postgraduate certificates RCVS and VDS fees paid Health insurance Employee discount Employee mentoring programme Why Apply? Independent, family-run practice Excellent facilities and clinical freedom Supportive, friendly team culture Strong focus on work-life balance Clear opportunities for career progression If you’re a Veterinary Surgeon in Chelmsford (or considering relocating) and want to join a modern, forward-thinking practice where you’ll be genuinely supported — we’d love to hear from you! For more information or for a confidential chat, please contact Will on or email to To view all our vacancies, please visit And don't forget, if this position is of no interest to you but you know someone who may be interested, please pass on our details. We offer £250* for every successful candidate referral. *Terms and conditions apply. Ref no: JOB-55778