Job Description
Veterinary Investigation Officer (VIO)
Location: Penrith, Cumbria (mainly office based)
Fixed term contract – Start date asap around early Jan 2025
Salary – Dependant on Experience
Are you passionate about animal health and welfare?
Do you have expertise in veterinary science and a commitment to public health?
The Job
We are currently looking for a Veterinary Investigation Officer (VOI) to join our team. The VOI will be responsible for providing veterinary operational services to safeguard animal health and welfare, protect public health, and enhance food security. The role involves investigating notifiable animal diseases, conducting post-mortem examinations, and collecting and interpreting relevant data. Additionally, the VOI will be required to carry out inspection, approval, and audit duties, contribute to disease outbreak response, and ensure compliance and enforcement of government policies.
About Us
Our company culture is built on teamwork, respect, and a shared passion for Food Safety. We value open communication and foster a supportive environment where your ideas are valued, and your contributions recognised. In addition to offering training and ongoing support, we are dedicated to working with you to foster your professional growth and expand your knowledge and expertise.
The Role
Veterinary surveillance involves conducting post-mortem examinations and utilizing diagnostic tests to determine the likely cause of death or diagnosis when possible. The primary responsibility is to confidently perform post-mortem examinations in a laboratory setting on livestock species, as well as to report findings and results. This process includes triaging cases, taking detailed clinical histories, and communicating with Private Veterinary Surgeons in the Northwest region, specifically in Cumbria, Lancashire, and West Yorkshire.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide diagnostic and investigative support to private veterinary surgeons and their clients.
* Conduct post-mortem examinations, primarily on farm animal species, ensuring high professional standards in report production.
* Evaluate case submissions and authorise appropriate laboratory tests, interpreting results across various disciplines, including microbiology and histopathology.
* Offer expert advice to fellow VIOs and discuss clinical cases with private veterinary surgeons.
* Occasionally undertake on-farm and field investigations while adhering to APHA health and safety protocols.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Degree in veterinary medicine
Relevant experience in veterinary operations
RCVS membership
Essential Skills on application, OCQ(V)-TT and OCQ(V)-SS are desirable but not essential.
Experience with large animals.
Knowledge of government policies related to animal health and food security
Strong communication and decision-making skills
Ability to work flexibly and respond to disease emergency situations
* UK driving license and access to a vehicle
* An understanding of ISO standards is preferred, specifically in relation to the veterinary field.
* Commitment to professional development and maintaining a record of competence in line with RCVS and APHA standards.
Hours
Availability to work a standard five-day week (Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17:00) with the potential for out-of-hours duties, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, to ensure 24/7 coverage.
Contract type
Locum or employed basis
Please note this is an initial fixed term contract for 5 months which may or may not renew
If you are passionate about animal health and welfare and have the necessary qualifications and experience, we would love to hear from you. Join us in making a difference in safeguarding animal health and welfare, protecting public health, and enhancing food security.