No OOHs | Purpose-built referral hospital | Strong nursing team
Feeling ready for something more, without the pressure?
If you are an experienced RVN who enjoys high standards of care but does not want the intensity or unpredictability that often comes with referral work, this could be exactly the right balance.
This role offers the chance to step into orthopaedic referrals with full support, proper induction, and a team that genuinely wants you to succeed, even if referrals are completely new to you.
The Opportunity
We are working with a well-established, small animal orthopaedic referral practice in a beautiful rural setting near Horsham. This is a 12-month fixed term position covering maternity leave, but it is very much about finding the right person, not just filling a rota gap.
You will be joining a practice that has invested heavily in its people, facilities, and culture. The focus here is calm, planned, high-quality patient care, supported by experienced clinicians and a large, capable nursing team.
They are looking for a confident, all-round RVN who takes pride in their work, communicates well, and values teamwork. Referral experience is not required. What matters far more is attitude, curiosity, and a commitment to patient and client focused care.
Why This Role Is Different
A referral environment that supports learning
This is a busy orthopaedic service, but one that recognises the importance of training and confidence-building. A full induction is provided, with ongoing support from senior nurses and clinicians, so you are never expected to just “figure it out”.
Facilities designed to make your job easier
The practice operates from a purpose-built, recently refurbished building with two operating theatres and on-site CT. Everything is set up to support efficient, safe, high-quality nursing care.
A genuinely strong nursing team
You will be part of a nursing team made up of eleven RVNs and two VNAs, led by an experienced Head Nurse. There is always someone to ask, learn from, or lean on when needed.
Interesting, specialist caseload
The clinical work includes a full range of orthopaedic procedures such as THR, TPLO, CUE, and arthroscopy. You will gain exposure to advanced procedures while still working within a supportive structure.
Work-life balance that is respected
There are no out-of-hours shifts. Shifts are planned, predictable, and designed to be fair, with a shared approach to weekends and late shifts.
Your Journey Here
In your first month, you will focus on settling in, getting to know the team, and becoming comfortable with the practice’s systems, equipment, and referral workflows. The emphasis is on support and confidence, not speed.
By three months, you will be working confidently across the referral caseload, contributing fully to theatre, inpatient care, and day-to-day nursing, while continuing to build your orthopaedic knowledge.
By six months, you will feel like a valued, integral part of the team, trusted in your role, and supported in pursuing further learning or development that aligns with your interests.
What’s On Offer
Compensation and Time Off
- £31,000–£34,000 salary, depending on experience
- 6 weeks paid holiday, including bank holidays (pro rata)
- Full-time role, with part-time considered
- Shifts between 7:15am and 7:00pm, 8-hour days
- 1 in 6 weekends on call
- No out-of-hours work
Professional Development
- £600 CPD allowance plus 3 days CPD leave (pro rata)
- In-house CPD and training support
- Clear opportunities for progression
Additional Benefits
- RCVS membership paid
- VDS cover
- Health Shield contributions for health and wellbeing treatments
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Cycle to Work scheme
- My Benefits platform with retail and gym discounts
- Company sick pay
- Regular pay reviews and wellbeing focus
The Candor Vets Difference
At Candor Vets, we focus on fit, not pressure. We take the time to understand what you are looking for and only introduce roles that genuinely align with your values, skills, and life outside work.
Ready to Explore?
If this sounds like a role where you could grow your skills, feel supported, and enjoy coming to work, let’s have a confidential, no-pressure conversation.
Job Reference RVN068