Pharmacist Assistant Opportunity at Dis-Chem Pharmacies

Dis-Chem Pharmacies, a premier retail pharmacy group in South Africa, invites applications for a Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant (Fixed Term) based at their Thatchfield dispensary. Operating within a high-volume community pharmacy, this position provides vital dispensary support under the direct supervision of registered pharmacists. The role focuses on delivering exceptional patient care, promoting healthcare education, and upholding professional dispensing practices.

This fixed-term engagement is structured to foster continuous learning and adherence to good pharmacy practice standards. The appointed candidate will contribute to dispensary workflow efficiency, accurate dispensing of prescription medication, and comprehensive front-shop self-medication consultation. It represents an outstanding opportunity for an accredited Basic Pharmacist Assistant to refine their professional craft within a reputable healthcare corporate.

Key Responsibilities & Core Duties

• Assist in the dispensing, compounding, and preparation of non-sterile medicines according to approved standard operating procedures and pharmacist oversight.
• Accurately pick, pack, label, and cross-check scheduled pharmaceutical products against valid medical prescriptions.
• Capture patient information, verify biographic details, and maintain clean medication records on the computerized pharmacy system.
• Advise patients on the safe usage, dosage instructions, and storage conditions of dispensed medicines and over-the-counter products.
• Assist with the controlled stock management, receiving, and storage of Schedule 1 through Schedule 5 medications.
• Communicate with medical aid schemes to resolve claims queries, authorize prescriptions, and explain pricing or co-payments to patients.
• Execute professional product repackaging and maintain dispensary cleanliness, sterilization standards, and stock rotation practices.
• Conduct follow-up consultations with patients regarding script tracking and scheduled repeat medication collections.

Ideal Candidate Profile & Core Attributes

Candidates must demonstrate uncompromising precision, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep dedication to patient confidentiality. The dispensary setting demands someone capable of working composedly under sustained pressure while meeting tight dispensing deadlines. Excellent bilingual communication, active listening skills, and a strong sense of professional accountability in accordance with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) code of conduct are essential.

Learning, Mentorship & Career Progression

Working alongside experienced supervising pharmacists and retail managers, assistants gain extensive clinical knowledge, insight into pharmaceutical stock dynamics, and exposure to advanced dispensing management software. This supportive environment provides the practical clinical hours and mentorship necessary for qualifying basic assistants to advance toward Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant certification and elevated responsibilities within retail healthcare.

Estimated Salary Range (Market Benchmark)

The hiring employer has not officially specified a salary for this position. Based on South African market data and industry benchmarks for an entry-level basic qualified pharmacist assistant role, the estimated remuneration is approximately R9,000 – R14,000 per month, depending on benefits. Please note that this is an industry estimate and actual remuneration will be determined by the employer based on qualifications, experience, and internal pay structures.

How to Apply & Submission Guidelines

Qualified candidates meeting all regulatory requirements are invited to submit their electronic application through the Dis-Chem recruitment system. Please ensure your submission includes an updated CV, certified copies of your Matric certificate, Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification, and proof of current registration with the SAPC.

• Grade 12 / Matric with a minimum of 50% in Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences.
• Accredited Basic Pharmacist Assistant Qualification.
• Active registration as a Pharmacist Assistant (Basic) with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills in English and a second official language.
• Clear criminal record and verified credit clearance (MIE compliant).
• Valid driver's license and/or reliable transport.
• South African citizenship.