In part 4 of our series we look at locum vet rates and how to set yours. Whether you’re considering locuming for the flexibility, variety, or as a chance to explore different practices, this series will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what is involved. From getting started as a locum, to the unique benefits and challenges along the way, each post will offer valuable insight and tips to help you navigate and thrive as a locum. Stay tuned as we explore every aspect of locum veterinary work and provide you with the tools to make the most of your locum career.

Deciding How Much to Charge…

As a locum vet, setting your rates is one of the most critical aspects of your career. Whether you’re just starting in locum work or have years of experience, determining your hourly or daily rate requires careful consideration. Your rates should reflect your qualifications, expertise, and the current market conditions, while ensuring you’re fairly compensated for your work. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to determine your rates, understand market conditions, and manage negotiations with agencies and practices to secure the pay you deserve.

1. How to Set Your Hourly or Daily Rate

The first step in determining your locum vet rates is to consider how much you want—or need—to earn. It’s essential to take into account both competitive market rates and your own financial goals.

A. Research the Market

Start by researching the going rates for locum vets in your region. Speak with other locum vets in online forums or social media groups dedicated to veterinary professionals, to exchange insights with your peers about their rates.

Recruitment websites and job boards featuring locum roles can often provide a benchmark for what practices are offering in your area.

B. Consider Your Experience

Your level of experience is a crucial factor in determining your rate. More experienced locums can typically command higher rates, especially if they have additional qualifications or specialisations.

Vets with only a couple of years experience may need to start at the lower end of the rate spectrum. However, in high demand areas, rates for less experienced locums can still be competitive.

If you have several years of experience and/or specialise in a particular area, you can charge higher rates based on your expertise.

Certificate holders or those who have undertaken advanced training can command even higher rates.

C. Hourly vs. Daily Rates

Decide whether to set an hourly or daily rate. Many locum vets prefer daily rates as they simplify billing and offer more predictable earnings. However, hourly rates may be more appropriate for certain roles or shifts. Here’s what to consider:

Hourly Rates are ideal for practices requiring flexible shifts, evening work, or on-call availability. They are also common for shorter shifts or emergency work.

A daily rate is often easier to manage, particularly for longer shifts or full-day coverage. It also ensures predictable earnings regardless of the hours worked.

2. Understanding Market Rates for Locum Vets

Locum vet rates can vary depending on location and your area of specialisation.

A. Regional Differences

Urban areas and cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester often have higher locum rates due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for veterinary services. These locations typically have more veterinary clinics and hospitals in need of locum staff.

In rural areas rates may be lower but can include additional perks such as free accommodation.

Areas with difficulty filling locum roles due to staff shortages often result in higher demand and better pay for locums willing to work in those regions.

B. Specialisation

Certain specialisations allow you to charge higher rates due to the niche demand for these services. Specialised areas that may offer higher pay include:

Emergency and Critical Care roles often require irregular hours, night shifts, and handling high-pressure situations, justifying higher rates.

Practices requiring locums with advanced surgical skills, particularly in specialist or referral centres, often offer premium pay.

If you have expertise in caring for exotic animals you can often command higher rates due to the specialist knowledge required.

“Working with Vet Jobs Agency when I first started locuming was a no-brainer! They handled all the negotiations for me, and made sure I got a fair rate that I was happy with.”

— Dr. Sarah S, Locum Vet

3. Key Considerations When Setting Rates

Determining the right rate involves more than just market research—it also requires taking several personal and professional factors into account:

A. Experience Level

Your experience is directly linked to your rate:

2-3 yrs graduated: Start at lower rates but can gradually increase their earnings as they gain experience.

Mid-Career Vets: You’ll likely be able to charge a mid-range rate based on your skills and experience.

Highly Experienced Vets: Those with significant experience and proven expertise should be able to charge higher rates.

B. Location

In addition to regional demand, consider your proximity to the practice. Locum rates may be higher for roles that require significant travel or relocation. If your role involves travel, make sure your rate reflects these additional costs, including:

Travel Expenses: Ensure your rate compensates you for travel or that the clinic reimburses you for travel expenses, including transport or flight costs.

Accommodation: If the role requires overnight stays, ensure that the practice covers accommodation or includes it in your rate if you are responsible for booking and paying for it.

C. Type of Practice and Services Offered

Different types of practices have different financial capabilities, which can influence locum pay:

First Opinion Small Animal Clinics: These clinics may offer consistent locum roles, but rates can vary based on size and location.

Referral Centres: Practices dealing with complex or specialist cases are more likely to offer higher pay to attract locum vets with advanced skills.

Corporate Practices: Larger corporate practices now offer capped rates regardless of experience, and may also have stricter terms when it comes to contracts and payment.

“Using an agency to negotiate my rates has been incredibly helpful. They know the market, understand my experience, and ensure I get the fairest rate possible. They’ve helped me secure great locum positions, better pay, all without the stress of negotiation!”

— Dr. Hannah E, Locum Vet

4. Negotiating Your Rates with Practices

Once you’ve set your rates, it’s time to negotiate with practices. Here’s how to handle negotiations professionally:

A. Be Transparent

Clearly communicate your rate expectations from the outset. Be open to negotiation, but know your worth based on your skills, experience, and market conditions. If you’re working with an agency, ensure that you clarify your expectations regarding pay, over time, travel, and any other conditions so that they are able to negotiate effectively on your behalf.

B. Know Your Worth

Understand the value you bring to the practice. If you have specialised skills or are filling an urgent need, you may have more leverage to negotiate a higher rate. Practices may be willing to pay more for your expertise, especially for urgent or challenging roles.

C. Stay Professional.

Negotiations can be uncomfortable, but it’s important to remain professional. Listen to the needs of the practice, but also advocate for fair compensation based on your time and expertise.

D. Consider the Whole Package

Some practices may offer additional perks such as:

  • Travel reimbursements
  • Accommodation or an allowance
  • Use of a practice vehicle
  • Access to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities
  • Long-term or regular locum work

These extras can add significant value, even if the pay rate itself is lower than expected.