Ever considered diving into the freelance world of veterinary nursing? Or perhaps you’ve heard the term “locum” tossed around in professional circles and wondered what it meant? Well, you’re in the right place. Here we are looking at the world of locum vet nursing.
Understanding the World of Locum Work
The word “locum” might sound exotic, but it’s a staple in the medical field. How does it play into veterinary nursing, and what does it mean for professionals like you?
What is a Locum?
“Locum” originates from the Latin phrase “locum tenens”, meaning “place holding.” In the professional world, it refers to someone who temporarily fulfils the duties of another.
The Role of a Locum Vet Nurse
As a locum vet nurse (or locum RVN), you’d be stepping in to cover for regular staff during their absence. This could be due to vacations, sick days, maternity leave, or other reasons. Your role might vary from place to place, but the core duties remain similar.
The Availability of Locum Vet Nurse Work
There’s a growing demand for locum vet nurses. Why? Veterinary clinics and hospitals see the flexibility in hiring professionals who can fill in gaps without long-term commitments.
Like other medical fields, those in the veterinary profession work long hours and staffing levels can be an issue, which makes the flexibility of locum workers an invaluable addition to the industry.
Hiring a locum means that clinics and hospitals can maintain their service quality without overloading existing staff.
Unpacking the Pay: How Much Do Locum Vet Nurses Earn?
Generally, locum vet nurses earn more on an hourly or daily basis than their permanent counterparts. This is due to the temporary nature and often last-minute requirements of their roles. However, while the pay might be slightly higher, locum work does lack the stability and guaranteed steady income of a vet nurse who holds a permanent employment position.
Factors Influencing Pay
Experience, location, and the specific needs of the hiring clinic all play a role in determining the pay. If you are negotiating your rate with an employer, remember these factors!
Accommodation Allowance
Locums jobs can sometimes offer accommodation (usually free of charge or small fees), or an accommodation allowance which allows Locum nurses the opportunity to travel around the UK and explore different regions.
Seeking Opportunities: Finding Locum Vet Nurse Work
As a locum, you will be responsible for finding your own work, but there are a number of channels that can assist you in this:
Job Portals and Websites
There are numerous job boards dedicated to veterinary positions. Here at Synergy Vets, we specialise in finding work for those in the veterinary profession, including those seeking locum work. You can browse our job listings for locum vet nurse work here.
Networking: Your Strongest Ally
Talk to colleagues, attend veterinary conferences, and engage in online communities. Personal connections can sometimes lead to the best opportunities. Remember, you can always network while also having a veterinary recruitment agency working to find you positions at the same time.
Choosing How to Get Paid
Types of Payment Methods
Whether it’s through an agency, direct bank transfers, or other means, there are several ways locums get paid. Explore your options and see what aligns with your preferences.
What’s Best for Your Situation?
Some locums prefer the security of payment through agencies, while others opt for the autonomy of direct dealings. Evaluate the pros and cons based on your preference and needs.
Is Locum Work Right for You?
While the flexibility and higher pay can be enticing, locum work also comes with uncertainties, like inconsistent work schedules. However, the work is incredibly rewarding and offers flexibility and travel opportunities that you wouldn’t get with a permanent position. You will also be making a huge difference to the veterinary industry as a whole – locum workers keep everything moving!
Only you can decide if the locum route aligns with your career aspirations and lifestyle. Reflect, research, and reach out to experienced locums for insights.
Embarking on a journey as a locum vet nurse can be both exciting and daunting. It offers a unique blend of flexibility, higher earning potential, and varied experiences. But like all things, it’s not for everyone. Assess your personal and professional goals, and see if the locum life fits your vision.
To learn more about how we can help you find the perfect locum vet nurse position, please get in touch.