Are you a pharmacy graduate looking to gain practical experience in a professional retail pharmacy environment? Dis-Chem Pharmacies is offering an exciting Pharmacist Internship opportunity at its Haasendal store in Cape Town. This programme is designed to equip aspiring pharmacists with hands-on training while ensuring they meet the South African Pharmacy Council’s requirements for professional development.
About the Internship
The purpose of this internship is to expose learners to the principles and practices of the pharmaceutical environment while promoting lifelong learning and high-quality patient care. Interns will be directly supervised by registered pharmacists as they learn to meet patients’ medicine-related needs and provide excellent customer service.
This is more than an internship – it is a stepping stone to building a meaningful career in pharmacy.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Essential
- Matric / Grade 12.
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm – 4-year qualification).
- Computer literacy (MS Office).
Advantageous
- Holiday work experience during degree studies.
- Familiarity with Unisolve and E-Scripting.
Key Functions and Duties
As a Pharmacist Intern, you will gain exposure to a wide range of pharmacy-related responsibilities, including:
- Assisting with the sale of Schedule 1 and 2 medicines under direct supervision.
- Supporting the compounding, manipulation, preparation, or manufacturing of sterile and non-sterile medicines.
- Handling re-packaging, stock distribution, and control of Schedule 1 to 6 substances.
- Reading, preparing, and processing prescriptions under pharmacist guidance.
- Ensuring accurate dispensing, labelling, and patient counselling.
- Advising customers on correct medicine use and providing health promotion information.
- Capturing script details and maintaining accurate patient records.
- Following up on prescriptions, medical aid claims, and authorisations for chronic or specialised medication.
- Maintaining customer profiles, handling stock reports, and supporting stock control activities.
- Adhering to Dis-Chem’s policies, procedures, and Health & Safety standards.
Competencies Required
To succeed in this internship, you will need the following:
Essential Skills
- Proficiency in English and a second language (read, write, and speak).
- Solid understanding of BPharm curriculum knowledge.
- Strong communication and listening skills.
- Excellent customer service orientation.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
- Good numerical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Teamwork, honesty, and professionalism.
Advantageous Skills
- Knowledge of retail/FMCG operations.
- Familiarity with drug and family planning or complementary medicines.
- Ability to speak a third language.
Conditions of Employment
- Willingness to work retail hours, including weekends.
- Ability to work in a controlled environment (limited space, risk stock, health and safety).
- Physically fit to stand for long periods.
- Valid driver’s licence and own reliable transport.
- Registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (or valid work permit).
- Clear credit and criminal record.
Salary and Benefits
Dis-Chem offers a competitive package that includes:
- Market-related salary.
- Monthly and annual performance bonuses.
- Medical aid.
- Provident fund.
- Staff account benefits.
Employment Equity Commitment
Dis-Chem Pharmacies is an equal opportunity employer. The company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Transformation Strategy will guide the recruitment process. Applications from People with Disabilities are actively encouraged.
Application Process
To apply, prepare your updated CV, proof of qualifications, and supporting documents. Submit your application via the official Dis-Chem Pharmacies careers portal.
Apply Online Pharmacist Internship Opportunity at Dis-Chem 2025-2026
⚠️ Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear back within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Conclusion
The Dis-Chem Pharmacist Internship in Cape Town offers an outstanding platform for pharmacy graduates to gain the supervised experience they need while delivering quality patient care. If you are passionate about healthcare, committed to accuracy, and eager to grow in the pharmaceutical industry, this opportunity is your gateway to a rewarding career.