Experienced Official Veterinarian (OV) – Food Safety & Animal Welfare
- stuartgough
- Feb 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 10
About the Role
We are seeking Experienced Official Veterinarians (OVs) to oversee and enforce food safety, animal welfare, and public health standards within slaughterhouses and meat processing plants. This role involves ensuring compliance with UK and international regulations, supporting inspection teams, and maintaining the highest welfare and hygiene standards.
As an OV, you will play a crucial role in public health protection, food quality assurance, and regulatory compliance, working closely with Meat Hygiene Inspectors (MHIs), plant operators, and government bodies.
Key Responsibilities
Lead ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections to ensure meat is safe for human consumption.
Monitor animal welfare compliance, ensuring humane handling and slaughter practices.
Conduct hygiene and traceability checks to verify food business operators (FBOs) meet legal requirements.
Assess food chain information and ensure accurate record-keeping.
Work closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and other regulatory bodies.
Provide technical guidance to plant inspection teams, including Meat Hygiene Inspectors (MHIs) and Meat Technicians (MTs).
Take enforcement action where necessary, ensuring proportionate and risk-based responses.
Investigate and document incidents, accidents, and non-compliance issues.
Deliver training and mentoring to inspection teams and junior veterinarians.
Ensure adherence to health and safety protocols within plants.
What We’re Looking For
RCVS-accredited veterinary degree (or equivalent).
RCVS registration or eligibility to obtain it.
Strong knowledge of food safety legislation, animal welfare regulations, and meat hygiene standards.
Experience in slaughterhouse or meat inspection work is desirable, but full training is provided.
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Strong leadership and communication abilities.
Category B driving licence with at least one year of driving experience.
What We Offer
Competitive salary
Company car or car allowance
Mobile phone and laptop
Permanent and flexible contracts available
20 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing to 25 days
Company pension scheme
Ongoing training and career development
Personal accident insurance
Visa sponsorship available (if required)
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a vital sector, ensuring the highest standards of food safety and animal welfare in the UK. If you're a dedicated veterinarian looking for a leadership role, we’d love to hear from you.
📩 Email your CV to stuart.gough@accuri-bs.com.