As a newly registered pharmacist finishing your intern year in 2025, stepping into the job market may feel overwhelming. 

With increasing competition and evolving industry demands, it’s crucial to understand how to stand out and land your first pharmacy role. Whether you’re aiming for a community pharmacy position, hospital role, or locum work, strategic planning is key to success.

In this article, we’ll highlight proven strategies that can help you navigate the pharmacy job market and get the career you’ve been training for.

The Current Pharmacy Job Market: What You Need to Know

As a pharmacy graduate, understanding the job market is crucial. Competition is growing as more graduates enter the workforce, and many employers prefer to hire locums instead of offering permanent roles. 

Some sectors, like hospital pharmacy or clinical research, may require additional qualifications or experience. However, these challenges also present exciting opportunities, especially in the locum space, where you can gain varied experiences and flexibility.

Why Locum Work is a Smart Move for Graduates

Embracing locum work is one of the smartest strategies for pharmacy graduates in 2025. Here’s why:

• Flexibility: Locum roles allow you to choose when and where to work, perfect for exploring different pharmacy settings and maintaining work-life balance. 
• Diverse Experience: Locum work helps you gain experience in various environments, from community pharmacies to hospitals, which can increase your future job prospects. 
• Networking: Locum positions are an excellent way to expand your professional network, potentially opening doors to permanent roles. 

With the LocumCo+™ app, you can easily find locum pharmacy opportunities that match your preferences and gain valuable experience across multiple settings.

How LocumCo+™ App Can Jumpstart Your Career

The LocumCo+™ app streamlines the process of finding locum work, making it easier than ever to access job opportunities. With 3500 users and a chatbot called Scout, LocumCo+ ™ has helped many fresh graduates to explore job opportunities.

Here’s how it can benefit you:

• Real-time job listings to browse locum roles as soon as they’re posted. 
• Customised job alerts to receive notifications tailored to your preferences. 
• Streamlined applications that let you apply for roles quickly and efficiently. 
• Wide range of roles from community to hospital pharmacy settings, giving you the flexibility to explore different opportunities. 

With LocumCo+™, you can take control of your career and secure locum positions that fit your schedule.

Key Skills and Qualifications for 2025 Graduates

To make yourself a more attractive candidate in the competitive 2025 job market, focus on developing these key skills:

• AHPRA registration: Ensure you have a valid practising certificate. 
• Clinical skills: Your ability to provide exceptional patient care will be highly valued by employers. 
• Adaptability: Be ready to learn and grow as the pharmacy industry evolves. 
• Technological proficiency: Familiarity with digital tools and apps like LocumCo+™ will set you apart from other candidates.

Networking and Mentorship: The Key to Career Growth

Networking is essential in the pharmacy job market. Connecting with industry professionals can lead to job opportunities, valuable mentorship, and career guidance. Consider:

• Joining professional associations like the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA). 
• Engaging in online communities and LinkedIn groups to connect with fellow pharmacists. 
• Seeking mentorship from experienced pharmacists to learn from their insights.

Exploring Different Pharmacy Sectors

To enhance your career, explore diverse pharmacy sectors:

• Community Pharmacy: Provide healthcare services to the public in retail pharmacies. 
• Hospital Pharmacy: Work in a dynamic setting, collaborating with healthcare teams to manage patient medications. 
• Corporate Pharmacy: Pursue management roles in large pharmacy chains. 
• Clinical Research: For those interested in research, explore clinical trials and drug development.

LocumCo offers locum roles across these sectors, allowing you to explore and find the best fit for your skills and interests.

The Value of Continuing Education and Professional Development

To stay competitive, pursue ongoing professional development through industry conferences, further education, or certifications. This commitment to learning is highly valued by employers and can open new career pathways. 

LocumCo provides opportunities to gain diverse experience, helping you build your expertise in different areas of pharmacy practice.

How to Find Your First Job as a Graduate

Landing your first pharmacy job can be challenging, but with the right tools and approach, you can set yourself up for success. Here’s how:

• Use job platforms like the LocumCo+ ™  app to find locum roles that match your career goals. 
• Tailor your resume for each application, highlighting your qualifications and experience. 
• Prepare for interviews by researching employers and practicing common questions. 

LocumCo connects new graduates with employers seeking fresh talent, supporting you throughout the process.

Conclusion: LocumCo Can Help You Navigate Your Pharmacy Career

The pharmacy job market for graduates in 2025 presents challenges but also abundant opportunities. 

By using tools like the LocumCo+™ app, networking with industry professionals, and gaining experience across various pharmacy settings, you can take control of your career path. Whether you’re seeking locum or permanent roles, LocumCo is here to help you every step of the way.

Ready to take control of your pharmacy career? Call 1800 357 001 to explore exciting locum opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I use the LocumCo+ ™ app to find locum pharmacy jobs?

Simply download the app, create a profile, and start browsing available roles. Set customised alerts for relevant opportunities.

What types of pharmacy sectors can I work in through locum roles?

Locum roles are available across community pharmacies, hospital settings, corporate pharmacies, and clinical research positions.

How do I get started with locum work through LocumCo?

Visit the LocumCo website or download our app to create a profile, upload a CV, and start applying for locum positions.

What are the benefits of locum pharmacy work?

Locum work offers flexibility, diverse experiences, competitive pay, and the opportunity to build a strong professional network.