Hire Pharmacy Assistants
Pharmacy assistants work under the supervision of a pharmacy manager or licensed pharmacist. Considered a more junior role in the pharmacy department, they handle the clerical tasks to help a pharmacy run smoothly.
Hiring a pharmacy assistant begins with defining the expectations and qualifications of the hiring company. Pharmacy assistants can work in stand-alone pharmacies or a hospital’s pharmacy department on a part-time or full-time basis. This is an entry-level role in a pharmacy that can offer learning opportunities for candidates.
Creating a job description that speaks to candidates is important to attract candidates to apply. Gone are the days when job descriptions were just long lists containing complex terms and industry-specific jargon that are difficult to understand. Hiring managers should draft job descriptions that are clear and easy to read. Details should be specific and written with the job seeker’s perspective in mind. What are the job hours? Will the hospital provide on-the-job training? Is there an opportunity for career advancement? It is helpful for hiring managers to answer these questions in the job description.
Once you are confident with the final job description, strategically posting the job announcement is next to online platforms, social media sites, industry-specific groups, and communities. If the job vacancy is in a hospital setting, post the job announcement on bulletin boards. Employees are usually eager to refer their friends, family members, and acquaintances.
Responsibilities of a Pharmacy Assistant
The primary responsibility of pharmacy assistants is to assist in the daily operations of a pharmacy. Their job includes clerical duties like answering phones and professionally providing customer service. Pharmacy assistants answer simple inquiries and direct all medicine-related questions, prescriptions, and health concerns to the licensed pharmacist.
Pharmacy assistants also process sales transactions, operate the cash register, and maintain an inventory of all medication and pharmaceutical supplies. If needed, they place orders for new medicines and supplies and take care of unpacking deliveries and restocking shelves for replenishment. Under the supervision of a pharmacist, pharmacy assistants assist in typing and printing prescription labels and updating patient files. Lastly, pharmacy assistants make sure that the work area is clean and organized.
Skills and Qualifications of a Pharmacy Assistant
A high school diploma or GED is required. Most pharmacies provide on-the-job-training when onboarding pharmacy assistants. Although previous work experience is typically required, it is up to the hiring company if they will accept candidates whose work experience is in other fields. The ideal candidate for a pharmacy assistant position is detail-oriented and organized with strong customer service skills. Candidates must be able to follow verbal and written instructions well and work well with a team. Lastly, as the job will entail some data entry duties, proficiency in MS Office applications is necessary.
Pharmacy assistants contribute to the smooth operation of a pharmacy. By taking on the clerical tasks, they allow more time for licensed pharmacists to attend to patients and educate them on their medications.
