Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

Ark Vetcare, Dun Laoghaire 
Full-time | Fixed Term Contract 
Salary up to €61,500 DOE (FTE) 
Start Date: June 2026 

 

A Well-Rounded GP Role with Real Support 

We’re looking for a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team in Dun Laoghaire for a 3 month fixed-term contract (from June to September. This is a genuine general practice role, offering a balanced mix of consulting, medical case work-ups, and routine surgery. 

 

You’ll be joining a supportive, collaborative environment where there’s always someone to discuss cases with, while still having the autonomy to manage your own day. It’s a great opportunity for a vet who enjoys variety and wants to continue building confidence in both medicine and surgery. 

 

Working Pattern That Supports Balance 

This is a full-time position across five days per week, with a predictable and manageable rota. 

Typical hours are 7:30am to 4:30pm, with one later evening shift each week. Saturdays are worked on a 1 in 2 basis (8:00am–2:00pm), with a half day off in lieu the following week. 

 

There’s no out-of-hours or Sunday work, and just one bank holiday per year (9:00am–3:00pm), making this a role that genuinely supports a healthy work-life balance. 

 

What We’re Looking For 

We’re seeking a VCI-registered Veterinary Surgeon competent in first opinion practice. You’ll need to be confident in consultations, capable of working up medical cases, and comfortable with routine surgical procedures. Just as important is your attitude – we’re looking for someone who is a team player, communicates well, and brings a positive approach to their work. 

 

This role isn’t suited to a new graduate, as a level of independence in clinical decision-making is required. 

 

About Ark Vetcare Dun Laoghaire 

Ark Vetcare is a well-established veterinary group with three practices across South County Dublin. Our Dun Laoghaire clinic has been part of the community for over 50 years and has built a strong reputation for high-quality care and long-standing client relationships. While the building itself reflects its history, the clinical standards are modern and progressive. You’ll be working with a diverse and engaged client base who value the care we provide. 

 

The team in Dun Laoghaire includes six Veterinary Surgeons, four Veterinary Nurses, an Animal Care Assistant, and five client care team members. There’s a great mix of experience levels, and two certificate holders who are actively involved in mentoring and case collaboration. 

It’s a genuinely supportive practice where people enjoy working together, and where work-life balance is taken seriously. 

 

Benefits – Subject to Pro-Rata 

We offer a competitive salary, along with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, development, and long-term career. 

Work Life Balance

22 days Annual Leave

Birthday Leave (paid day off on your birthday)

Focus on Employee Wellbeing

Paid Maternity Leave Package

Paid Paternity Leave

Cycle to Work Scheme

Full access to EAP and Wellbeing Centre

Paid Bereavement Leave

Company Sick Pay

Development

€1300 annual CPD allowance with 5 days paid CPD days pro rata

Funding of any Certificates / Diplomas / PhD’s you may want to pursue

Career Progression Opportunities, both clinical and non-clinical

Professional Memberships

VCI membership paid

VDS cover paid

Additional Benefits

Annual Pay Reviews

Dedicated CARE fund – annual contribution of €1,100 from IVC Evidensia for each Vet to use on a case of your choice to ensure successful outcome with your patient (T&C’s apply)

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Employer Pension Contributions

Free Flu Inoculations

Discounted Veterinary Fees

Opportunity to join company programmes (LGBTQ+, Wellbeing Champions, Nurses Committee, Clinical Board and many more)

 

A Practice Where You Can Settle In and Grow 

This is a great opportunity to join a well-run, friendly practice where you’ll feel supported, valued, and part of the team from day one. If you’re looking for a solid GP role with variety, balance, and a genuinely positive working environment, we’d love to hear from you.