Feeling unsure about your pharmacy career path?
If you’re a qualified pharmacist or locum considering your next move, understanding the types of Pharmacists and their respective roles can make your journey a lot clearer.
With so many directions your pharmacy career can take, it’s essential to know your options, especially if flexibility and variety are priorities for you.
In this guide, LocumCo explains the many types of Pharmacists and their career opportunities, tailored to locum Pharmacists ready to explore what’s next.
Why It’s Important to Understand the Types of Pharmacists
Knowing the different types of Pharmacists helps you align your skills and interests with the right career track. As a locum, having clarity about your options can lead to more rewarding shifts, better pay, and broader experience across various pharmacy settings.
Let’s explore what roles exist and what each involves.
Community Pharmacist
Community Pharmacists work directly with the public in retail pharmacies. They’re responsible for dispensing prescriptions, advising on over-the-counter medications, and providing essential health advice.
This role is a common starting point and offers plenty of locum opportunities in both metropolitan and regional areas.
Hospital Pharmacist
Hospital Pharmacists operate within medical facilities, managing complex medication therapies. They collaborate with healthcare teams, monitor treatments, and ensure patient safety.
Locums in this space must be quick to adapt and comfortable working in fast-paced clinical environments.
Clinical Pharmacist
A clinical pharmacist focuses on direct patient care, often reviewing medication effectiveness and collaborating on treatment plans. This role is increasingly in demand for its strong impact on health outcomes.
You may find locum opportunities here in larger practices or specialised centres.
Industrial Pharmacist
Industrial Pharmacists work behind the scenes in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality assurance, and product development. Though less common for locums, this role suits those interested in science and innovation.
Consultant Pharmacist
These Pharmacists typically work with aged care facilities or in-home care services, conducting medication reviews and advising on best practices. It’s ideal for locums who enjoy variety and independence.
Regulatory Pharmacist
This role involves ensuring pharmaceutical compliance with safety standards and government regulations. While full-time positions are more common, contract-based roles may be available for experienced locums.
Oncology Pharmacist
Oncology Pharmacists specialise in cancer treatment, managing chemotherapy drugs and supporting patient care. It’s a high-demand field requiring advanced training and is accessible to experienced locums.
Geriatric Pharmacist
These Pharmacists focus on medication safety and management for elderly patients. Locums in this role often work in residential aged care facilities or in-home support programs.
Pediatric Pharmacist
Pediatric Pharmacists tailor medications for children, taking into account different dosages and sensitivities. Locums may find opportunities in paediatric hospitals or specialist practices.
Infectious Disease Pharmacist
Working closely with infection control teams, these Pharmacists manage medications for infectious diseases. They often play a key role in hospitals and health outbreaks.
Ambulatory Care Pharmacist
These professionals support patients with chronic conditions in outpatient settings. It’s a growing area, perfect for locums who enjoy ongoing patient interaction and chronic disease management.
Locum Pharmacist
A Locum Pharmacist fills short-term roles across various settings, offering unmatched flexibility and exposure to different work environments. This is where LocumCo shines. We help connect you with ideal locum placements that fit your lifestyle and career goals.
Locum work can include all the types listed above, giving you a chance to explore multiple pathways without long-term commitments.
Key Skills to Stand Out as a Locum Pharmacist
To stand out as a locum pharmacist, you need strong communication, adaptability, teamwork, and a sharp focus on patient care.
- Communication: You’ll often work with new teams and must clearly convey important details.
- Flexibility: Every shift may come with different systems, team structures, and expectations.
- Problem-Solving: You need to think on your feet and adjust quickly to different pharmacy environments.
- Team Player Attitude: Being respectful and collaborative builds trust quickly on each shift.
What Qualifications Are Needed?
You must be a registered pharmacist with a valid practising certificate, which means you have current AHPRA registration. Additionally, you’ll need:
- An ABN (for independent contractor roles)
- Updated CV reflecting relevant experience
- Current professional indemnity insurance
- Confirmation that you’ve notified your indemnity provider of your intention to work as a locum
How to Find Locum Work
Looking for your next role?
- Step 1: Contact LocumCo with your availability.
- Step 2: We’ll call or email you with opportunities.
- Step 3: We send you the details, and once approved, you’re ready to start.
LocumCo doesn’t rely on job ads, our clients send us shifts, and we match you with the best fit, often within the hour.
Managing Notifications and Staying Alert for Shifts
Use the LocumCo mobile app to receive alerts about new shifts. Keep your communication lines open, but manage notifications so they don’t overwhelm you.
Turn off non-essential alerts so you stay ready and responsive.
Final Thoughts from LocumCo on Pharmacy Careers
Understanding the types of Pharmacists can help you explore fulfilling opportunities across different pharmacy environments. Whether you’re new to locum work or looking to diversify your experience, there’s a path that matches your interests and lifestyle.
At LocumCo, we’re proud to help Pharmacists navigate these opportunities with ease. With over 38 years of experience and more than 31000 jobs filled, we know how to connect you to roles that matter.
Call us on 1800 357 001 to learn more about roles in your service area. Employers can register here to list shifts and connect with experienced locums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all types of Pharmacists require AHPRA registration?
Yes, you must be registered with AHPRA to practise in any pharmacy setting.
Can I locum across multiple pharmacy types?
Absolutely. That’s one of the biggest perks, locums can explore various roles without being tied to one setting.
Are some types of Pharmacists in higher demand than others?
Yes. Community, hospital, and aged care roles often have more locum demand, but specialist areas are growing too.
Do I need extra training for certain pharmacy roles?
Some roles, like oncology or paediatrics, may require additional qualifications or experience.
Is there support for new locums?
Yes. LocumCo provides guidance, app notifications, and ongoing support to help you succeed from day one.
Share