Feeling unsure about where to start your pharmacy career?
Jumping into the pharmacy industry can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. If you’re a qualified Pharmacist or considering locum work, there are specific things to know before working in a pharmacy that can shape your success and satisfaction.
In this guide, LocumCo breaks down the seven most important things to know before working in a pharmacy, helping you make informed decisions before saying yes to your next Pharmacist role.
1. Know the Different Work Settings
Understanding where you want to work is one of the first things to know before working in a pharmacy. There are multiple settings available to Pharmacists, and each one suits different preferences and personalities.
You can choose from:
- Community pharmacy: Ideal if you enjoy daily interaction with customers.
- Hospital pharmacy: Best for those who want to work alongside medical teams.
- Consultant or aged care settings: Suits those who enjoy independent, flexible work.
- Mail-order or home-care services: Offers low-pressure environments with minimal patient interaction.
As a locum, you’ll have the opportunity to try different environments before settling into one you love.
2. Understand the Basic Requirements
Before diving in, make sure you meet the criteria to work legally and confidently. These essentials are among the top things to know before working in a pharmacy:
- A valid AHPRA registration
- A clear criminal history check
- A recognised pharmacy degree
- Professional indemnity insurance
- An ABN if you’re planning to work as a contractor
- An updated CV that reflects your experience and soft skills
Meeting these standards ensures you’re eligible for both full-time and locum positions.
3. Master Communication Skills
Whether you’re dealing with customers or collaborating with health professionals, communication is key. It’s one of the most underrated things to know before working in a pharmacy, but it can make or break your workday.
You should be able to:
- Clearly explain medication directions
- Build trust with customers quickly
- Respond calmly in high-pressure situations
- Communicate effectively with doctors and care teams
Solid communication doesn’t just make you more employable. It protects patient safety.
4. Accuracy is Non-Negotiable
Attention to detail ranks high among the things to know before working in a pharmacy. A small mistake in dosage or dispensing could result in serious consequences.
Pharmacists are expected to:
- Double-check prescriptions and instructions
- Maintain detailed records
- Ensure drug interactions are flagged and managed
- Work quickly without compromising precision
In fast-paced locum environments, your accuracy and confidence will set you apart.
5. Be Prepared for Irregular Hours
The pharmacy world doesn’t always run 9 to 5. One of the real things to know before working in a pharmacy is that some jobs involve late nights, weekends, or split shifts, especially in community and hospital settings.
As a locum, you may need to cover:
- Holiday and sick leave shifts
- Emergency or last-minute vacancies
- Weekend hours in rural or remote locations
While the schedule might be unpredictable at times, the variety keeps the job dynamic and rewarding.
6. Prioritise Your Comfort and Stamina
Pharmacist roles are more physically demanding than most people expect. One of the practical things to know before working in a pharmacy is how much standing and moving you’ll do.
Make sure you:
- Invest in comfortable, supportive shoes
- Take care of your posture during long shifts
- Stay hydrated and eat well to keep your energy up
You might not realise how much this matters until you spend eight hours on your feet!
7. The Industry Is Growing, Stay Informed
One of the most optimistic things to know before working in a pharmacy is that the industry is expanding. The rise in demand for healthcare services, especially post-pandemic, has boosted the need for qualified Pharmacists across the country.
With emerging roles in:
- Industry Pharmacist jobs
- Pharmacist jobs in the pharmaceutical industry
- Specialised clinics and aged care
It’s essential to stay current with certifications and remain open to opportunities that push you forward.
Career Tips for Locum Pharmacists
Locum Pharmacists’ work offers unmatched flexibility and variety. But it’s important to stay prepared between placements.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Always keep your professional documentation up-to-date
- Maintain open availability during peak demand periods
- Use the LocumCo mobile app to stay informed about new shifts
- Notify your indemnity provider of your locum intentions
- Manage your schedule to avoid burnout and ensure availability
Locum Job Process: How It Works at LocumCo
Step 1: Contact LocumCo with your shift preferences or availability.
Step 2: We’ll reach out via phone or email with suitable job matches.
Step 3: You receive role details and resumes for approval, no interviews needed.
It’s that simple. We help you get placed quickly, often within hours.
How to Stay Alert for Locum Shifts
We want our Pharmacists to stay ready to take on opportunities.
Consider these tips:
- Adjust mobile settings to allow LocumCo notifications only
- Close non-essential apps and emails during shifts
- Keep your phone nearby, but set boundaries to focus while working
Being alert and responsive can be the difference between landing a job and missing it.
Final Thoughts from LocumCo: Build Your Career With Confidence
There are plenty of things to know before working in a pharmacy, especially as a locum.
From job settings and qualifications to comfort and career growth, understanding these factors will help you make informed and confident decisions.
At LocumCo, we take pride in guiding Pharmacists towards the right roles and career moves. With over 38 years of experience and more than 31000 jobs filled, we’re your trusted pharmacy recruitment partner.
Call us on 1800 357 001 to explore locum job opportunities tailored to your lifestyle and goals. Visit our job portal or register as an employer to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need AHPRA registration before applying for pharmacy jobs?
Yes, AHPRA registration is required before practising as a Pharmacist in any capacity, including locum roles.
How does locum work differ from permanent pharmacy positions?
Locum work involves flexible, short-term contracts, while permanent roles are ongoing. Locums work across different pharmacies, often with varying hours.
Can I work as a locum in rural locations?
Absolutely. Rural locum placements are in demand and can provide great pay and unique experiences.
What’s the biggest advantage of being a locum Pharmacist?
Flexibility. You can choose when and where you work, gaining exposure to different work environments.
Do I need to update my AHPRA profile for each locum job?
No, you don’t need to update your AHPRA details with each shift as long as your core information remains accurate and up to date.
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