Pharmacy Retail Assistant

As a Pharmacy Retail Assistant you work on the shop floor of a community pharmacy, helping customers select over-the-counter medicines, health supplements, skincare products and medical supplies. You advise customers on the appropriate use of non-prescription medications, refer more complex queries to the supervising pharmacist, and ensure that shelves are well-stocked and products are within their expiry dates. Day-to-day tasks include operating the till, processing payments, organising storage areas and maintaining a clean, orderly retail environment. You work closely with registered pharmacists and dispenary technicians, and you may also provide basic dispensary support such as labelling or preparing orders under supervision.

Entry to this role typically requires a Leaving Certificate or equivalent, though no specific subjects are strictly required; Biology, Chemistry and Home Economics can be useful background for understanding medicines and health products. Many employers value a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Retail Practice, Pharmacy Sales or Healthcare Support, available through PLC courses at Colleges of Further Education. The Irish Institute of Pharmacy (IIOP) recognises short continuing professional development courses in areas such as medicines counter assistance, which are increasingly expected by community pharmacy employers. No statutory registration with a regulator such as CORU is required for this role, though working under the supervision of a registered pharmacist is mandatory by law for any dispensary-related duties. Previous retail or customer service experience is a practical advantage when applying for these positions.