Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) Grade 1 to 3 (9 posts) (Permanent position)

This permanent position offers nine posts for a Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) at Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3, based within various institutions in the Khayelitsha and Eastern sub-structure of the Western Cape. The role forms part of the broader public health pharmacy service and is linked to the Ecosystem Service platform, meaning that appointed incumbents should be prepared to render clinical services across different institutions within the ecosystem as needed to sustain health service delivery. This is a structured, graded post with salary and service benefits attached, including a 13th cheque, pension fund contributions, housing and medical aid allowances, with the specific grade determined by the candidate's years of appropriate experience.

To be considered, candidates must hold the educational qualification required by the training facility and the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC), plus a Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification that permits registration with the SAPC as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) (Institutional). Registration with the SAPC in this category is essential. However, a special concession applies: candidates who do not yet possess the stipulated registration may still apply, provided they submit proof of application for registration with the relevant council and proof of payment of the prescribed registration fees on or before the day of the interview. This concession is limited to health professionals applying for the first time for registration in a specific category, including those who must apply for a change in registration status.

Experience requirements vary by grade. Grade 1 requires no experience after registration with the SAPC as a Pharmacist's Assistant (Post-Basic). Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years' appropriate experience in this role after registration, while Grade 3 requires a minimum of thirteen years' appropriate experience. Candidates should also demonstrate good computer literacy, the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and the capacity to perform under pressure. Fluency in JAC, Medsas and RMD systems is required, as is familiarity with the CDU system.

The core duties are performed under the direct personal supervision of a pharmacist. The incumbent will assist with reading and preparing prescriptions, selecting, manipulating or compounding medicines, and labelling and supplying medicines in appropriate containers, following the pharmacist's interpretation and evaluation of the prescription. They will also assist in providing instructions on the correct use of supplied medicines and offer health-promoting information to individuals. Further responsibilities include assisting with the distribution, control and ordering of medicines and scheduled substances, as well as compounding or manufacturing non-sterile or sterile medicines or scheduled substances according to approved formulas and standard operating procedures. General housekeeping and administrative tasks also form part of the role, ensuring the pharmacy operates efficiently and safely. This is an opportunity for qualified pharmacy assistants to contribute to essential medicine supply and patient care within a dynamic public health environment.