The University of Pretoria (UP) has recently announced a vacancy for the position of a Veterinary Nurse Intern at the renowned Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (OVAH). This internship offers aspiring veterinary nurses an excellent opportunity to develop their skills in a dynamic and high-performance environment. The position is aimed at individuals who are passionate about animal care and committed to learning in a clinical setting that combines teaching, research, and veterinary practice.
Job Overview
The role of the Veterinary Nurse Intern at OVAH involves a range of responsibilities designed to provide comprehensive clinical and practical training to the intern. It offers hands-on experience in patient care, clinic management, biosecurity, and safety measures, as well as a chance to assist in training veterinary students.
The internship will require the candidate to undertake shift duties and contribute to the delivery of continuous service in the hospital, ensuring that animal care and veterinary services are always available, even outside of regular working hours. This position is ideal for a committed and professional individual eager to advance their expertise in a specialized and challenging field.
Key Responsibilities
The Veterinary Nurse Intern will be responsible for various critical tasks, ensuring the smooth operation of the clinic and the optimal care of the animals. Some of the main duties include:
- Patient Care: Monitoring and assisting with procedures, feeding, and handling animals, ensuring their comfort and well-being at all times.
- Clinic Management: Overseeing the hygiene of the clinic, managing stock control, placing pharmacy orders, and ensuring equipment is properly maintained.
- Student Assistance: Working closely with veterinary students, offering support during their practical training, and helping with demonstrations and specific procedures such as preparing drips.
- Client and Communication Interaction: Assisting with communication between clients, sales representatives, private practitioners, and visiting students, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
- Safety and Biosecurity: Enforcing hospital biosecurity standards and ensuring safety protocols are followed to protect both animals and staff.
- Flexibility and Teamwork: The intern will be expected to work in different sections of the OVAH and collaborate effectively with the team to provide the best care to patients.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the Veterinary Nurse Internship, applicants must meet specific qualifications and competencies:
- BVetNurse Qualification: Candidates must hold a BVetNurse qualification.
- SAVC Registration: The successful applicant must be registered as a Veterinary Nurse with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC).
- Core Competencies:
- Knowledge of small and large animal nursing procedures, ICU, and theatre equipment.
- Understanding of biosecurity measures and diagnostic imaging equipment.
- Ability to handle various animal species and maintain a high standard of patient care.
- Excellent organizational skills and a professional demeanor.
- Physical mobility and the ability to work under pressure.
- Computer literacy and communication skills.
- Flexibility to work weekends and outside normal hours as required for hospital operations.
Desired Skills and Preferences
While not essential, candidates who are registered with the Veterinary Nursing Association of South Africa (VNASA) will have a distinct advantage. Additionally, those with prior experience in a veterinary clinical setting may also stand out as strong candidates for this role.
Internship Details
This temporary, full-time internship offers an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience in a highly esteemed academic veterinary hospital. The annual remuneration package will be aligned with the applicant’s qualifications and level of experience as per UP’s policy guidelines.
Application Process:
Interested applicants are invited to apply online via the University of Pretoria’s Careers@UP portal. Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:
- A comprehensive CV.
- Certified copies of qualifications and SAVC registration.
- Contact details of three professional referees.
The application deadline for this position is 15 June 2025. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo relevant skills assessments. If you do not hear from the University of Pretoria by 15 August 2025, you may consider your application unsuccessful.
Commitment to Diversity and Equality
The University of Pretoria is committed to creating an inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of South Africa. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented groups in accordance with the University’s Employment Equity Plan. However, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
Check also: PSG Graduate Programme (2026)
The Veterinary Nurse Internship at Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital is a prestigious opportunity for those seeking to further their career in veterinary nursing. With a focus on hands-on experience, practical training, and exposure to a world-class veterinary setting, this internship offers a solid foundation for those who aspire to work with animals and contribute to veterinary science.
Applicants who meet the requirements and are passionate about animal care are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date of 15 June 2025.