2x Referral RVN Positions - London - Pay: £38,000.00 per year
1 RVN required at Morden.
1 RVN required at Waltham Forest.
Optivet Referrals London is an independent specialist referral service, with specialists in ophthalmology.Through consistent growth, based on our quality of service, we now have two clinics in London. We have a fantastic opportunity to welcome a new friendly and enthusiastic Registered Veterinary Nurse to join each clinic. This is a fantastic opportunity to take the next step into referral nursing to further your skills, knowledge and experience.
This exciting position is a full-time role, working a 40 hour week, Monday to Friday.
NO OHH
NO WEEKENDS
To succeed in this role, you must be dynamic, well organised with high attention to detail. You must be able to show empathy and work in a fast-paced environment, whilst demonstrating exemplary teamworking skills. Above all, you must be passionate about providing a high standard and quality of care to your patients and clients.
In addition:
- You must be a qualified RVN
- Knowledge of referral practices would be an advantage but not essential.
Our package
- Base salary - £38,000 per year (experience and skill dependant)
- 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays.
- £1000pa towards CPD
- Private health care
- SMART pension
- Free onsite parking
- Pet insurance contribution
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Please email emma.nicholls@optivet.com with your CV and cover letter should you wish to apply.
2 x Weekend VCA's - Havant
We have an exciting opportunity for two enthusiastic and passionate Veterinary Care Assistants to join our inclusive team here at Optivet Referrals.
Optivet is an independent practice providing first line 24/7 emergency care with expert emergency clinicians as well as providing a specialist referral service in Ophthalmology, Surgery, Internal Medicine and Anaesthesia.
Our team focuses on all aspects of our patients wellbeing. Through knowledge-based growth and outstanding nursing care, our clinicians deliver effective treatments plans for our patients, keeping our clients informed throughout, founded on what we would want for our own pets.
Underpinned by our core values, we provide a culture where our team is supported and able to thrive, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth.
About the role
The two roles we have available are part time, and are weekends only - 8 hours per day, across a Saturday & Sunday.
1 x early shift weekend VCA every weekend - 7.30am - 4.00pm - 16 hours per week.
1 x twilight shift VCA every weekend - 1.30pm - 10.00pm - 16 hours per week.
As a VCA (Veterinary Care Assistant), you will work alongside specialist veterinary surgeons and RVNs to provide excellent care for inpatients, assist in theatres, prepare and clean equipment, maintain a high standard of cleanliness throughout the hospital and provide client care and lab processing assistance where required.
(Full job description available on request)
About you
Experience as a Veterinary Care Assistant would be beneficial.
To succeed in this role, you must be dynamic, well organised with exceptional attention to detail. You must be able to show empathy and work in a fast-paced environment, whilst remaining calm and demonstrating exemplary team-working skills.
Above all, you must be passionate about providing a high standard and quality of care to our patients and clients.
In addition:
- Proven strong and effective verbal communication techniques both on the telephone and face to-face.
- Demonstrates a professional level of English language when sending out written communication.
- Understand the ethical requirements of a referral veterinary practice.
- Strong computer skills.
- Experience in a similar role is preferable
Our package
- up to £10,599.68 per year
· 13.5 days holiday, inclusive of Bank Holidays. (prorated from 33 days per annum)
· Private health care
· SMART pension
· Free onsite parking
· Pet insurance contribution
Please email hannah@optivet.com with your CV and cover letter to apply.
3 x Full Time VCAs - Havant
We have an exciting opportunity for three enthusiastic and passionate Veterinary Care Assistants to join our inclusive team here at Optivet Referrals.
Optivet is an independent practice providing first line 24/7 emergency care with expert emergency clinicians as well as providing a specialist referral service in Ophthalmology, Surgery, Internal Medicine and Anaesthesia.
Our team focuses on all aspects of our patients wellbeing. Through knowledge-based growth and outstanding nursing care, our clinicians deliver effective treatments plans for our patients, keeping our clients informed throughout, founded on what we would want for our own pets.
Underpinned by our core values, we provide a culture where our team is supported and able to thrive, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth.
About the role
This is a permanent full time position working 40 hours per week across day, twilights and night shifts. There will be the requirement to work 1 weekend in 5 of nights.
As a VCA (Veterinary Care Assistant), you will work alongside specialist veterinary surgeons and RVNs to provide excellent care for inpatients, assist in theatres, prepare and clean equipment, maintain a high standard of cleanliness throughout the hospital and provide client care and lab processing assistance where required.
(Full job description available on request)
About you
Experience as a Veterinary Care Assistant would be beneficial.
To succeed in this role, you must be dynamic, well organised with exceptional attention to detail. You must be able to show empathy and work in a fast-paced environment, whilst remaining calm and demonstrating exemplary team-working skills.
Above all, you must be passionate about providing a high standard and quality of care to our patients and clients.
In addition:
- Proven strong and effective verbal communication techniques both on the telephone and face to-face.
- Demonstrates a professional level of English language when sending out written communication.
- Understand the ethical requirements of a referral veterinary practice.
- Strong computer skills.
- Experience in a similar role is preferable
Our package
· Starting Base salary £26,500.00
· 33 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
· Private health care
· SMART pension
· Free onsite parking
· Pet insurance contribution
Please email hannah@optivet.com with your CV and cover letter to apply.
2 x RVNs - Part time - 32 hours per week - Havant
Pay: £27,427.64-£29,120.00 per year
Job Description:
We have an exciting opportunity for two enthusiastic and passionate Registered Veterinary Nurses to join our inclusive team here at Optivet.
Optivet is an independent practice providing first line 24/7 emergency care with expert emergency clinicians as well as providing a specialist referral service in Ophthalmology, Surgery, Internal Medicine and Anaesthesia.
Our team focuses on all aspects of our patients wellbeing. Through knowledge-based growth and outstanding nursing care, our clinicians deliver effective treatments plans for our patients, keeping our clients informed throughout, founded on what we would want for our own pets.
Underpinned by our core values, we provide a culture where our team is supported and able to thrive, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth.
About the role
This is a part time position (32 hours on average per week, on a 6 week rolling rota) which may include a rotation of day, night and twilight shift patterns across 7 days per week. Exact shift pattern to be confirmed once candidates hired.
Working a twilight shift every other Sunday is a mandatory requirement of this shift pattern.
This also includes on call. Your responsibilities will revolve around caring for medical, surgical, and high-dependency patients, ensuring they receive optimal care.
More than just a job; you make a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of our beloved animals. Your keen attention to detail, coupled with your empathetic approach to patient care, will contribute towards an already established culture of excellence within our RVN team.
Our vibrant and friendly specialist and nursing team have exceptional knowledge and experience which allows for an excellent working environment, with plenty of support and development (full induction and training provided)
(Full job description available on request)
About you
To succeed in this role, you must be dynamic, well organised with high attention to detail. You must be able to show empathy and work in a fast-paced environment, whilst demonstrating exemplary teamworking skills.
Above all, you must be passionate about providing a high standard and quality of care to your patients and clients.
In addition:
· Be a qualified RVN with at least 2-3 years’ previous experience.
· Referral experience would be an advantage.
· Experience of emergency work would be an advantage.
· Well organised with exceptional attention to hygiene and cleanliness.
· Calm under pressure.
· Able to use initiative and work independently as well as within a team.
· Focused CPD record.
· Communicates to a high standard, across all areas and works well as part of a team.
Our package
Pay: £27,427.64-£29,120.00 per year
- 26.5 days holiday per year, including Bank Holidays (prorated from 33 days per year)
- CPD allowance per year
- Private health care
- SMART pension
- Free onsite parking
- Pet insurance contribution
- Electric car scheme
To apply – please email through your CV and covering letter to hannah@optivet.com
RVN - 1x Saturday day, 1 x Sunday day - 8 hours per week - Havant
Job Description:
We have an exciting opportunity for 2 enthusiastic and passionate Registered Veterinary Nurses to join our inclusive team here at Optivet.
Optivet is an independent practice providing first line 24/7 emergency care with expert emergency clinicians as well as providing a specialist referral service in Ophthalmology, Surgery, Internal Medicine and Anaesthesia.
Our team focuses on all aspects of our patients wellbeing. Through knowledge-based growth and outstanding nursing care, our clinicians deliver effective treatments plans for our patients, keeping our clients informed throughout, founded on what we would want for our own pets.
Underpinned by our core values, we provide a culture where our team is supported and able to thrive, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth.
About the role
This is a part time position (8 hours on average per week).
We are hiring 1 x Saturday day RVN, and 1 x Sunday day RVN. Please stipulate which role you are applying for when you send your application. If you want to be considered for both days, please let us know.
Your responsibilities will revolve around caring for medical, surgical, and high-dependency patients, ensuring they receive optimal care.
More than just a job; you make a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of our beloved animals. Your keen attention to detail, coupled with your empathetic approach to patient care, will contribute towards an already established culture of excellence within our RVN team.
Our vibrant and friendly specialist and nursing team have exceptional knowledge and experience which allows for an excellent working environment, with plenty of support and development (full induction and training provided)
(Full job description available on request)
About you
To succeed in this role, you must be dynamic, well organised with high attention to detail. You must be able to show empathy and work in a fast-paced environment, whilst demonstrating exemplary teamworking skills.
Above all, you must be passionate about providing a high standard and quality of care to your patients and clients.
In addition:
· Be a qualified RVN with at least 2-3 years’ previous experience.
· Referral experience would be an advantage.
· Experience of emergency work would be an advantage.
· Well organised with exceptional attention to hygiene and cleanliness.
· Calm under pressure.
· Able to use initiative and work independently as well as within a team.
· Focused CPD record.
· Communicates to a high standard, across all areas and works well as part of a team.
Our package
Pay: £6,868.16-£7,280.00 per year
·7 days holiday per year (prorated from 33 days including Bank Holidays)
· CPD allowance per year
· Private health care
· SMART pension
· Free onsite parking
· Pet insurance contribution
· Electric car scheme
Please visit our website Optivet.com to read more about what we do.
To apply – please email through your CV and covering letter to hannah@optivet.com
New Graduate Veterinary Surgeon (VetGDP)
Eligibility
This position is suitable for veterinary surgeons who:
- Graduated from veterinary school in Summer 2021 or later.
- Are commencing their first veterinary role in clinical practice.
- Have not yet completed the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP).
The role is also open to:
- Overseas-qualified veterinarians, or UK-qualified veterinarians returning to the UK from overseas, who have less than 18 months of experience in a role comparable to the position they are undertaking in the UK that are eligible for working in the UK and do not require a skilled worker visa.
- Veterinary surgeons rejoining the RCVS Register after an absence of five years or more.
Contract and Remuneration
- Fixed-term contract: 18 months
- Salary: £38,000 per annum
- Full-time position: Average 40 hours per week
- Variable shift pattern including days, twilights, nights, bank holidays and weekends (1 in 4/5)
- Annual leave: 25 days + 8 bank holidays per annum
- CPD allowance: 5 days per annum
Role Overview
The role is based on an average of 40 hours per week, worked across a variable five-week rota. Shifts include daytime, twilight and overnight responsibilities, with bank holidays and weekend commitments typically occurring on a 1-in-4 or 1-in-5 basis.
The New Graduate Veterinary Surgeon plays an essential role in supporting the veterinary and nursing teams in delivering outstanding emergency and critical care services. The position offers broad clinical exposure and hands-on experience in emergency medicine, inpatient management, anaesthesia, surgery, and client care, alongside the administrative responsibilities necessary for the effective operation of the service.
Working under the guidance and supervision of designated VetGDP Advisers, the successful candidate will progress through the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme by working towards agreed Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs). Relevant EPAs will be selected collaboratively with the VetGDP Adviser at the commencement of employment.
Cinical Responsibilities
- Review, interpret and summarise patient histories in preparation for consultations.
- Perform initial triage assessments of emergency patients.
- Conduct consultations under the supervision of senior veterinary surgeons.
- Prepare consultation notes and clinical reports for review by a supervising clinician.
- Perform and interpret diagnostic laboratory tests.
- Contribute to the formulation of diagnostic and treatment plans under direction and supervision.
Inpatient Care
- Work collaboratively with the nursing team to provide high-quality care for hospitalised patients.
- Participate in patient monitoring, treatment administration, clinical assessments and ongoing case management.
- Ensure accurate and timely communication regarding patient progress and treatment plans.
Anaesthesia
The successful candidate will participate in the anaesthetic management of patients from both Lighthouse Veterinary Specialists and Optivet Referrals.
Responsibilities include:
- Performing pre-anaesthetic assessments and clinical examinations.
- Developing anaesthetic protocols and perioperative plans.
- Inducing, maintaining and monitoring anaesthesia under appropriate supervision.
- Performing locoregional anaesthetic techniques and neuromuscular blocks where appropriate.
- Managing patient recovery and ensuring safe postoperative care.
- Conducting clinical handovers and communicating effectively with colleagues.
- Preparing clear and comprehensive postoperative management plans.
Surgical Support
- Assist with the delivery of emergency surgical procedures.
- Prepare and position patients for surgery.
- Perform basic surgical procedures under the direct supervision of senior veterinary surgeons.
- Discuss and confirm postoperative care plans with the supervising clinician.
- Ensure all clinical instructions, treatment plans and surgical notes are accurately documented within the patient record.
Interdepartmental Collaboration
- Maintain effective communication with colleagues across the hospital, including senior A&E Veterinary Surgeons, Nurses, Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs), Reception, Diagnostic Imaging, Specialist Services, Client Care and other support teams.
- Provide timely responses to patient-related and client-related enquiries.
- Support a collaborative and patient-focused approach to clinical care.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Provide support to Reception and Client Care teams regarding patient queries.
- Assist with medication dispensing and prescription management.
- Support the completion and authorisation of insurance documentation.
- Ensure all patient records and clinical documentation are accurate, thorough and maintained to a high professional standard.
Professional Development
The New Graduate Veterinary Surgeon will actively engage with the VetGDP programme and associated learning opportunities, including:
- Regular meetings with their designated VetGDP Adviser.
- Completion of agreed Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs).
- Participation in clinical discussions, case reviews and continuing professional development activities.
- Development of professional, clinical and communication skills in line with RCVS standards and expectations.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for newly qualified veterinary surgeons to develop confidence and competence in emergency and critical care within a supportive multidisciplinary environment, while completing the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme and building a strong foundation for future clinical practice.
Contact
If you are interested in hearing more about this position, please email both: eva@optivet.com and nicola.bromley@optivet.com
Work Experience
We are currently accepting work experience placements for enthusiastic individuals aged 17 and over. To apply, please complete the application form below and return to learning@optivet.com
Click here to download application form.



