Veterinary Nurse, Equine and Large Animal

Based at Roseworthy Veterinary HospitalFull-time continuing, fixed term and seasonal contracts availableParticipation in a 24/7 rotating roster, with an opportunity to significantly increase earnings through roster penalties and shift loadings, which may equate to approximately 30–40% above base salary depending on roster participationSalary Range: (HEO4) $75,366 to $82,607 plus 17% superannuationWork in a dynamic Equine and large animal veterinary hospital environment
This is your opportunity to work in South Australia’s only teaching veterinary hospital, caring for patients while supporting the education of the next generation of Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians. We are recruiting for multiple experienced Large Animal Veterinary Nurses, with continuing and short-term contract opportunities available. You will bring sound technical skills across clinical procedures, emergency care, diagnostic, surgical and medical interventions to deliver high-quality patient care, clinical assistance and student learning support within the Large Animal Hospital.
At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive.
We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow.
Work that matters
As a Large Animal Veterinary Nurse, you will provide high-quality nursing support across clinical, surgical, diagnostic, and ambulatory services within the Veterinary Hospital. You will play a key role in patient care, including emergency triage and stabilisation, anaesthesia and imaging preparation, treatment implementation, and client communication, while supporting safe and effective clinical service delivery in accordance with hospital standards.
The role includes coordinating patient admissions and discharges, maintaining animal housing and isolation facilities, and supporting hospital operations through best-practice hygiene, waste disposal, biosecurity, and safety procedures relevant to large animal handling environments.Working collaboratively with veterinarians, students, client relations, and administrative teams, you will also contribute to clinical teaching and student learning by providing practical supervision, mentoring, and support during procedures, patient care activities, and clinical placements, while consistently applying Adelaide University health, safety, and wellbeing procedures within a dynamic clinical environment.
In addition to the base salary and superannuation, this role offers the opportunity to earn substantial additional income through applicable shift penalties, weekend rates, and after-hours loadings associated with the roster. For nurses who actively participate across the rotating roster, these additional payments can provide a meaningful uplift to total remuneration.
Curious to learn more? Explore the full role description below to discover more about this opportunity.
The team
This role sits within the Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital team in the College of Science and reports to the Equine Practice Manager. The team works collaboratively to deliver high-quality veterinary services to clients and referring veterinarians while supporting clinical teaching and learning outcomes across the University community.
Visit the AU website to learn more about the Roseworthy Veterinary Hospital.
Our people
Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and hands-on clinical environment. You will work closely with veterinarians, students, clients, and support staff across a variety of emergency and critical care cases, making every day engaging and rewarding.
Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU.
Experience
To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience
ExperienceCertificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, a Bachelor of Veterinary Technology, or currently working towards a relevant qualification with significant relevant experienceExtensive Equine or Large animal experience in veterinary nursing with sound technical skills in areas such as surgery, emergency, internal medicine or general practiceExperience working in a clinical setting maintaining best practicesExperience with practice management softwareExperience providing supervision and/or training to studentsExperience applying Occupational Health and Safety and biosecurity protocolsExperience working independently and as part of a team in a dynamic hospital environmentAbility to participate in a 24/7 rotational roster
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity
We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Launch your future with Adelaide University now
Simply click on the Apply Now and upload:
• your current CV• a cover letter
The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address.Submit your application by 11:30pm Thursday 24 September 2026
For further information about this opportunity, please contact (quoting reference number 493153):
Simone PattersonTalent Acquisition Adviser+61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au
Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.
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