Working as a Pharmacist
Industry Overview
There is a shortage of pharmacists in British Columbia and a significant number of job openings are expected in response to new job creation and the need to replace retiring workers. Rural and smaller communities, in particular, are short of both community and hospital pharmacists.
Over the last decade years, Canada's aging population has led to a rapidly increasing number of prescriptions being filled by pharmacists. The largest increase in pharmacy activity has taken place in community pharmacies that are located in food and general merchandise stores. Many jobs will be created in retail pharmacies as more supermarkets and general merchandisers open pharmacies in their stores.
Job Outlook in BC
Pharmacists
Chart from: Work BC
WorkBC provides job openings in BC regions from 2021-2031:
| Region | Employment in 2021 |
Average Annual Employment Growth 2021-2031 |
Expected Number of Job Openings 2021-2031 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Island | 690 | 1.1% | 210 |
| Lower Mainland/Southwest | 2930 | 1.4% | 960 |
| Thompson-Okanagan | 440 | 1.7% | 180 |
| Kootenay | 70 | 1.6% | 30 |
| Cariboo | 220 | 0.3% | 10 |
| North Coast & Nechako | 70 | 2.7% | 20 |
| Northeast | 50 | 2.3% | 10 |
You can learn more about working in BC from the following sources:
Types of Employers
- Hospitals
- Universities
- Government
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Retail pharmacies, which include privately-owned and operated pharmacies, national chains, and pharmacies located in super markets and big box stores
Salary & Working Hours
In BC, the median annual salary for pharmacists is $98,725. Pharmacists who work full-time usually receive benefits such as dental coverage, paid sick leave and vacation time. Some pharmacists can also earn bonuses or participate in profit-sharing programs.
Depending on the work place, you may belong to a union. This means wages and benefits are negotiated by union representatives on your behalf.
Sources: WorkBC & Career Cruising
In BC regions you can expect to make:
Source: Job Bank Wage Report
Working Hours
Most pharmacists work approximately 40 to 50 hours per week. Working in community pharmacies may require evening and weekend work. Pharmacists working in hospitals may work rotating shifts.