✅ Attention Job Seekers: Be sure to read through the entire post for important details! You'll find the application link or email provided at the end of the post.
Dis‑Chem Pharmacies Invites qualified candidates to apply for the Post‑Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant vacancy. The closing date for applications is 7 September 2026.
Dis‑Chem’s Optenhorst store in Paarl, Western Cape is looking for a dedicated pharmacy assistant who loves helping people with their medication needs. This is a permanent role in a busy retail pharmacy that offers steady hours, a competitive salary and a chance to grow inside a leading South African pharmacy chain. If you are registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) and want to take the next step in your pharmacy career, read on.
What You’ll Do Every Day
You will work side‑by‑side with pharmacists and the dispensary team. Your main focus is to make sure customers leave with the right medicines and clear instructions. Typical tasks include:
- Sell medicines that are allowed for assistants (Schedule 1 & 2).
- Help prepare non‑sterile meds by following approved formulas and standard operating procedures.
- Re‑package medicines when required.
- Read and label prescriptions after the pharmacist has checked them.
- Enter patient details accurately into the computer system.
- Pick, pack and label medication so it is ready for the customer.
- Explain dosage and possible drug interactions in language patients can understand.
- Answer questions about medical aid claims, costs and paperwork.
- Support health‑promotion activities by giving simple advice on over‑the‑counter products.
- Keep the stock shelves tidy, report low levels, and help with regular stock checks.
- Follow safety rules, handle cash and store assets responsibly.
All of these duties are performed while keeping a close eye on accuracy, professionalism and SAPC regulations.
What You Need to Succeed
Must‑Have Qualifications
- Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
- Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification.
- Current registration with the South African Pharmacy Council.
- Good command of English and at least one other South African language (reading, writing and speaking).
Core Skills
- Strong customer service attitude – you enjoy helping people.
- Excellent listening and communication skills.
- Very high attention to detail – one mistake can affect a patient’s health.
- Good maths ability for counting tablets and handling cash.
- Ability to solve everyday problems quickly.
- Team player – you work well with pharmacists, technicians and other assistants.
- Honest, trustworthy and reliable.
- Able to manage time and stay calm under pressure.
- Basic computer skills, especially Microsoft Office and pharmacy software.
Nice‑to‑Have Extras
- Experience in retail or fast‑moving consumer goods (FMCG).
- Familiarity with the Unisolv stock system.
- Background in oncology or chronic disease medication handling.
- A third language (e.g., Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu).
- Knowledge of SAP or e‑scripting platforms.
- Understanding of family‑planning and complementary medicine products.
Work Environment
The role is based in a retail pharmacy, so you will work normal store hours, including evenings and weekends when needed. The job requires you to stand for long periods and move around a tightly packed dispensary. You must be comfortable with:
- Controlled temperatures in the medication storage area.
- Security procedures for high‑value medicines.
- Limited space and strict health‑safety rules.
All staff must hold a clean criminal record, a valid driver’s licence and be South African citizens.
Salary and Benefits
Dis‑Chem offers a market‑related salary that reflects your experience and qualifications. Additional benefits include:
- Medical aid cover.
- Provident fund contribution.
- Access to a staff discount account (subject to company terms).
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and are ready to join a dynamic pharmacy team, click the link below to submit your application. Remember, the deadline is 7 September 2026. Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted. If you do not hear back within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Apply here: https://dischem.simplify.hr/vacancy/baety8
Why This Job Is a Great Step Forward
Working at Dis‑Chem’s Optenhorst store gives you real‑world experience in a fast‑paced pharmacy setting. You’ll develop skills in prescription handling, customer counseling, stock management and health‑care compliance. The position is ideal for anyone who wants to solidify their pharmacy knowledge, interact with a diverse community and build a career with a trusted South African brand.
Take the next step in your pharmacy journey—apply today!