Working as a veterinarian can be a varied role depending on your interests and experience. Becoming a locum veterinary nurse is one option that’s often a popular choice as you have the opportunity to work across different practices, with new people and have different responsibilities wherever you are based.
Are you interested in the prospect of locum work? Here’s all you need to know.
What does being ‘locum’ mean?
A locum veterinary nurse is not based in one practice. Locum means that you stand in for someone when staff levels or low or temporary cover is needed such as illness, maternity leave or holiday.
Due to the nature of locum work, positions are usually based across the UK and a particular region depending on your availability and each contract will vary in length and how many hours you work.
How do you find locum work?
If you are interested in being a locum veterinary nurse then the best thing to do is register with a veterinary recruitment agency. You need to be on the ball with finding a locum position, so having expert help will ensure that whenever a new opportunity arises your CV is put forward and you have a new contract lined up.
What are the benefits of becoming a locum veterinary nurse?
Locum work can be a great option for those who like versatile roles with the option to decide when and where they work. The benefits of becoming a local veterinary nurse include:
- Your wages can often be higher than for full-time veterinary nurses.
- You have more opportunity to learn new skills.
- Working as a locum allows you to meet new people.
- You can travel up and down the UK.
- There is greater flexibility about where and when you choose when you work.
- You can test out a particular veterinary practice before signing a full-time contract
- You can gain a great reputation in the veterinary industry.
What skills do you need as a locum?
The versatility of being a locum means that you need to be flexible and ready for change. Some of the skills that are suited to locum work include:
- Confidence
- Adaptability
- Efficiency
- Good communication
- Time management
The more locum work you take on the easier you will be able to adapt to your new responsibilities.
Are you looking for your next position as a locum veterinary nurse? At VetPro Recruitment, our experienced team will match you with an appropriate employer throughout the UK. As a specialist in veterinary employment, we’re on hand to support your job search including CV tips, interview advice and more. Find your next job today.