PHARMACIST

This vacancy is for a Pharmacist based at Embekweni District Hospital, offering an opportunity to work within the public health sector in a hospital pharmacy environment. The role is graded under the Occupational Specific Dispensation, with appointment possible at Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 depending on the candidate’s experience. The position requires a professional who can deliver a comprehensive, high-quality pharmaceutical service in line with relevant legislation, policies, and standard operating procedures. The pharmacist will be expected to support the hospital’s clinical teams, ensure the safe and effective use of medicines, and contribute to the overall management of the pharmacy unit.

To be considered, applicants must have a Matric certificate and an appropriate Bachelor of Pharmacy degree that allows registration with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) as a Pharmacist. Current registration with the SAPC for the 2026/2027 period is essential. The required experience varies by grade: Grade 1 is open to South African qualified employees with no post-registration experience, while foreign qualified employees need one year of relevant experience after registration with a recognised foreign Health Professional Council. Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years of experience after registration with the SAPC, and Grade 3 requires at least thirteen years. In addition to formal qualifications, candidates must possess knowledge of health and safety policies, the Patient Rights Charter, Batho-Pele principles, and infection control policies. Strong problem-solving, interpersonal, communication, planning, and computer literacy skills are also required.

The main duties of the post are broad and include rendering a professional pharmaceutical service through support, assistance, and the execution of duties in accordance with applicable rules. The pharmacist will manage pharmaceutical addendums, ensure the availability of medicine stock through sound drug supply management and stock control principles, and maintain accurate statistics and reports. Dispensing medication to patients and clinics is a core responsibility, as is the management and control of medicine stock, including issuing scheduled medication, calculating stock levels, controlling expired medication, and maintaining drug registers for scheduled substances and donations. The role also involves reducing risk in the pharmacy by compiling risk assessments and action plans, and ensuring adherence to good pharmacy practice rules and regulations. Training and supervision of pharmacy assistants, interns, and other support personnel form an important part of the job.

Candidates should be aware of several special conditions attached to the post. Successful appointees will be required to enter into an employment contract and a performance agreement within three months of appointment, and to undergo a security clearance. All shortlisted candidates will be expected to complete two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and one integrity assessment. The selection process includes personnel suitability checks covering criminal records, financial standing, qualifications, citizenship, references, and employment verification. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate, and dual citizens or non-South African citizens may need to provide additional documentation if shortlisted. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a pharmacist seeking to make a meaningful contribution to public healthcare at a district hospital.