You only need to have Grade 12 to enter into a Basic Pharmacist Assistant training programme. Dis-chem has opportunities now to start working with them as Dispensary Support and study towards the qualification.
Dis-chem employs over 18 500 full-time and part-time employees. Now, they are looking for candidates to join their company in a Dispensary Support role.
Are you passionate about healthcare and looking to start a career in the pharmaceutical industry? Dis-Chem Pharmacies is offering a valuable opportunity for learners to join their company as Dispensary Support Training Programme and also study towards the qualification as a Basic Pharmacist Assistant.
This learnership is ideal for young South Africans who meet the academic requirements and are eager to gain practical experience in a professional pharmacy environment.
About the Dispensary Support and Basic Pharmacist Assistant Programme
The purpose of this programme is to equip learners with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work in a dispensary. Learners will be enrolled in the Basic Pharmacist Assistant Course, which is accredited by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
Successful applicants will be placed in fixed-term positions as Dispensary Support staff while completing the training. Once they pass the course and register with the SAPC, they will become eligible for permanent employment within Dis-Chem.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this opportunity, candidates must have:
Grade 12 / Matric with:
- At least 50% in Pure Mathematics
- At least 50% in Life Sciences and/or Physical Science
- A minimum average of 50% overall
Must pass a proficiency test that allows registration with SAPC
Must be a South African citizen
Must clear MIE background checks, including criminal and credit screening
What You’ll Learn and Do
As a Dispensary Support Learner, your duties will include:
- Selling Schedule 1 medicines under pharmacist supervision
- Assisting in compounding and preparing non-sterile medicines
- Unpacking, labelling, and merchandising pharmaceutical stock
- Learning to interpret prescriptions accurately
- Supporting patients with medication queries and script follow-ups
- Monitoring stock levels and expiry dates for Schedule 1–5 medicines
- Receiving dispensary stock in line with company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Assisting with call centre scripts and customer service tasks
- Supporting medical scheme authorizations for chronic and specialised medication
- Promoting health and wellness through patient engagement
Skills and Competencies Required
Essential:
- Fluency in English and a second South African language (spoken, read, and written)
- Strong time management, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Basic numerical and computer literacy
- Professionalism, trustworthiness, and ability to work in a team
Advantageous:
- Previous experience in retail FMCG or Dis-Chem’s front shop
- Knowledge of Unisolv, SAP, or e-Scripting systems
- Familiarity with family planning or complementary medicine is a plus
Remuneration and Benefits
- Market-related salary
- On-the-job learning with support from qualified pharmacists
- A structured pathway to becoming a registered Basic Pharmacist Assistant