
Career Opportunity: Dispensary Support – Dis-Chem Pharmacies, Montana
Are you passionate about the healthcare industry and eager to take your first step into the world of pharmacy? Dis-Chem Pharmacies in Montana is offering an exciting opportunity for motivated individuals to join our team as Dispensary Support. This position is designed for learners who are ready to complete the Learner Basic Pharmacist Assistant Course and begin a rewarding journey in the pharmaceutical environment.
This role is not just a job it’s a career launchpad. You’ll receive both formal education and valuable hands-on experience in a busy retail pharmacy setting. Once you’ve completed the required course and registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC), you’ll be eligible for permanent employment as a Basic Pharmacist Assistant within our trusted pharmacy network.
What is the Purpose of the Role?
The goal of the Dispensary Support position is to provide a structured learning pathway for aspiring pharmacy professionals. During this period, you will gain knowledge of pharmaceutical regulations, ethical practices, and dispensing processes. This position is fixed-term and intended to support your development until you officially qualify.
The course you’ll undertake promotes on-the-job learning, combining classroom theory with real-world application. By the end of your training, you’ll be equipped to contribute meaningfully to a dispensary team, understand the principles of pharmaceutical care, and deliver excellent customer service in line with industry standards.
Key Responsibilities
As a Dispensary Support team member, your duties will be varied and educational. You’ll be exposed to several areas of pharmacy practice, all under the supervision of licensed professionals. Key responsibilities include:
Pharmaceutical Dispensing Support
- Assist with the sale of Schedule 1 medicines and scheduled substances in accordance with legal requirements.
- Help compound, prepare, or manipulate non-sterile medicines as guided by the responsible pharmacist and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Learn to interpret prescriptions accurately and responsibly.
Customer Interaction & Script Support
- Handle basic customer queries related to medications, repeat scripts, and refills.
- Support script tracking and follow-up to ensure customer satisfaction and timely medication access.
- Assist with call centre duties, including responding to medication-related queries and scheduling script pickups.
- Offer health-related information to help promote wellness and proper medication use.
Stock and Inventory Duties
- Assist in receiving, unpacking, and merchandising dispensary stock in line with internal SOPs.
- Help maintain cleanliness and organisation of shelves and storerooms, ensuring medication is stored appropriately.
- Monitor expiry dates and report low stock or discrepancies to the Dispensary Manager.
- Participate in stock control processes, including regular checks of Schedule 1 to Schedule 5 medications.
Administrative and Clinical Support
- Assist with labelling, picking, and packing medication.
- Understand common medication dosages and important drug interactions.
- Ensure all medications are checked and signed off by a registered pharmacist before being handed to customers.
- Help with scheme authorisations for chronic illness, HIV/AIDS, and oncology prescriptions.
Minimum Requirements
This opportunity is ideal for recent matriculants or individuals looking to build a long-term career in pharmacy. To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following educational requirements:
- Grade 12 / Senior Certificate with at least:
- 50% in Pure Mathematics
- 50% in Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences
- An overall average of at least 50%
This academic background will prepare you for the foundational knowledge covered in the Basic Pharmacist Assistant Course and help you succeed during the training period.
Skills and Competencies
Success in this role requires a balance of technical understanding and people skills. Candidates must demonstrate the following competencies:
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English and a second South African language (written and spoken).
- Time Management: Ability to meet deadlines and remain focused under pressure.
- Customer Service: A helpful attitude and ability to address client needs with professionalism.
- Attention to Detail: Accuracy in handling medications and interpreting prescriptions is crucial.
- Problem Solving: Ability to think clearly and resolve minor issues independently or with support.
- Teamwork: Work collaboratively with colleagues and management.
- Integrity: Maintain confidentiality, honesty, and professional conduct at all times.
- Tech Skills: Comfortable with computers, basic software, and numeric calculations.
Why Join Dis-Chem Pharmacies?
Dis-Chem is one of South Africa’s leading pharmacy chains, known for professional service, community support, and career development opportunities. By joining us as a Dispensary Support learner, you’re stepping into a company that values growth, learning, and healthcare excellence. You will:
- Be trained by skilled pharmacists
- Learn in a supportive, real-world setting
- Gain valuable retail and clinical experience
- Lay the foundation for a career in pharmacy or healthcare
Final Thoughts
This is your chance to start a meaningful career in healthcare as a Dispensary Support Learner. If you’re hardworking, eager to learn, and ready to help people live healthier lives, we want to hear from you. After successful completion of your training and registration with SAPC, you will be eligible to transition into a permanent position as a Basic Pharmacist Assistant—with even more opportunities to grow.
Apply today and begin your journey with Dis-Chem Pharmacies—where every step brings you closer to a rewarding future in pharmacy.
Leave a Reply