Dispensary Support Opportunity at Dis Chem Pharmacies Palm Court

A Dispensary Support position is available at Dis Chem Pharmacies Limited in the Palm Court store, Roodepoort, Gauteng. This is a contract role within the pharmacy and dispensary sector designed for entry level candidates who want to build a career in pharmaceutical services. The position supports the training of learners who aim to qualify as basic pharmacist assistants. It combines practical workplace learning with formal pharmaceutical education under supervision.

Job Purpose And Role Overview

The purpose of this role is to provide support within the dispensary while training towards registration as a learner basic pharmacist assistant with the South African Pharmacy Council. You will assist pharmacists with daily dispensing operations while learning pharmaceutical procedures and standards. The role focuses on quality on the job training, accuracy, and compliance with pharmacy regulations. You will work under direct supervision while developing essential skills in medicine handling and patient service. Success depends on attention to detail, discipline, and willingness to learn.

Training And Learning Programme Structure

This is a structured learning position that leads to professional registration. You will remain in a fixed term role until you qualify and register with the SAPC as a learner basic pharmacist assistant. Once qualified, candidates may be considered for permanent employment. The programme focuses on developing understanding of pharmaceutical principles, dispensing procedures, and legal requirements. Training is conducted in a real pharmacy environment under supervision.

Key Responsibilities

This role involves assisting with dispensary operations, stock control, and patient service support.

Core responsibilities include:

• Assisting with sale of Schedule 1 medicines under pharmacist supervision
• Supporting compounding and preparation of non sterile medicines
• Following approved standard operating procedures for dispensing tasks
• Assisting with unpacking and merchandising of pharmacy stock
• Cleaning dispensary and over the counter shelves
• Learning to interpret prescriptions accurately and professionally
• Ensuring medication is correctly picked, packed, labelled, and checked
• Supporting pharmacists in verifying medication accuracy
• Managing stock control including expiry date monitoring
• Assisting with patient follow ups and script tracking
• Supporting call centre and patient service calls
• Providing basic health information to customers
• Assisting with chronic, HIV, AIDS, and oncology medication authorisation
• Reporting stock shortages and errors to the dispensary manager
• Receiving and organising dispensary stock according to procedures

Pharmaceutical Learning And Compliance

You will be trained to follow strict pharmaceutical regulations set by the South African Pharmacy Council. This includes understanding prescription handling, medication safety, and legal dispensing practices. All medication must be checked by a registered pharmacist before being issued. You will also learn about drug interactions, dosages, and proper handling of scheduled medicines. Compliance with safety and quality standards is a key part of daily work.

Skills And Competencies Required

This role requires strong focus, discipline, and willingness to learn.

Essential skills include:

• Ability to read, write, and speak English and a second language
• Strong time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Attention to detail in all tasks
• Good communication and listening skills
• Strong customer service focus
• Problem solving ability
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Professional conduct and accountability
• Trustworthiness and honesty
• Basic computer and numerical skills

Advantageous skills include:

• Retail or FMCG experience
• Knowledge of pharmacy products and services
• Familiarity with Unisolv, SAP, or E scripting systems
• Experience in front shop or retail pharmacy environment

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Grade 12 or Senior Certificate
• Minimum 50 percent in Pure Mathematics
• Minimum 50 percent in Life Sciences or Physical Sciences
• Must pass a proficiency test for SAPC learner registration
• Must be a South African citizen
• Must pass credit and criminal background checks

Work Environment

You will work in a busy pharmacy environment at Dis Chem Palm Court in Roodepoort. The role requires accuracy, focus, and strict adherence to procedures. You will interact with pharmacists, pharmacy staff, and customers daily. The environment is regulated and requires compliance with health and safety standards. You must be comfortable working under pressure while handling sensitive pharmaceutical tasks.

Career Growth Opportunity

This position is a structured pathway into the pharmaceutical industry. It prepares you for registration as a basic pharmacist assistant. Once qualified, you may progress into permanent pharmacy roles within Dis Chem or other healthcare environments. It builds strong foundations in medicine dispensing, patient care, and pharmacy operations. It is an important entry point for long term careers in healthcare.

How To Apply

Interested candidates can apply here: Dispensary Support Opportunity