How to Secure a Pharmacist Job in Canada as a Newcomer - LegitBio
Advertisement

People who want to work in the healthcare industry frequently pursue a pharmacist job in Canada. Some of its attractive features are the competitive pay and high demand in this area, which is both steady and expanding.

Due to the high demand for pharmacists in Canada, they assume new responsibilities as the country’s population ages and healthcare needs change.

Advertisement

A pharmacy degree from a university and a period of supervised practical training are requirements to obtain a pharmacist job in Canada. You will also require a license from the province or territory where you intend to live because community and hospital pharmacists are regulated professions.

Only if you hold a license and are a full member of one of the provincial or territorial bodies may you practice pharmacy or call yourself a pharmacist. The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) represents these organizations.

If you intend to pursue a career in pharmacy, it’s a good idea to learn more about the field before relocating to Canada as a guarantee that you fulfill the standards of the position. This article will outline the necessary information and steps to get a pharmacy job in Canada as a newcomer.

What to Expect When Pursuing a Pharmacist Job in Canada

In Canada, becoming a pharmacist can lead to various employment opportunities. There are many specializations, and many pharmacists are employed in the healthcare and retail industries.

Their primary employers are pharmacies, whether national, regional, or local businesses. Approximately 70% of licensed pharmacists fall into this category.

In addition, you can work with government organizations, pharmaceutical companies, assisted living facilities, long-term care facilities, clinics, hospitals, and educational institutions. You might also look into becoming a drugstore owner.

Start Your Research with the NOC Code for Pharmacist Jobs in Canada

It’s important to research how pharmacy is practiced in Canada and to become familiar with provincial laws and legislation where you’ll settle. Understanding the broader requirements of job market trends specific to the pharmacy profession will also place you in a solid position to achieve your career goals. 

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is an excellent place to start. Using the 5-digit pharmacist NOC code 31120, you can understand the primary duties, such as job titles and employment requirements.

Knowing the name of your job in Canada will help you when you begin your job search. Combined with using the NOC 31120, you can do further research to gather information about working as a pharmacist in Canada.

Furthermore, the Government of Canada’s Job Bank outlines factors such as pharmacist wages, job prospects, and requirements. Since job prospects can vary across Canada, you need to identify where the prospects are good and use the information to inform you of essential settlement decisions.

How to Secure a Pharmacist Job in Canada as a Newcomer

Finding Your First Pharmacist Job in Canada

Searching for a pharmacist job in Canada differs from your home country. The Canadian job market is competitive, and employers may have other job application requirements. Use these tips to help you with your job search:

Job Search Techniques for Pharmacists in Canada

You must register to practice pharmacy in the province or territory where you plan to settle. Searching for work in the area where you registered would also be beneficial.

As a result, take your time to learn about the job needs in that area and create a plan for employment. There are numerous methods for looking for work in the pharmacy industry, such as:

  • Broaden your search and include alternative careers.
  • Seek a pharmacy sector mentor who could share their insights and introduce you to their professional network.
  • Join pharmacy or healthcare job-finding or networking clubs through immigrant-serving agencies.
  • Attend pharmacy or healthcare job fairs and regularly check online job boards.
  • Some pharmacy colleges or associations may maintain a job bank or suggest a commercial site. Also, hospitals and other health institutions post vacancies on their websites.

Requirements for Becoming a Pharmacist in Canada

Internally trained pharmacists must meet the licensing requirements in Canada to practice. However, foreign-trained pharmacists must enroll in Canadian pharmacist programs. Below, we explain the steps you will need to take to work as a pharmacist in Canada:

Credential Recognition

Before arriving in Canada for a pharmacist job, contact the regulatory body for pharmacists in the province or territory where you intend to settle.

They will advise you about the process, the required documents, and the assessment fees. Alternatively, contact the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA). NAPRA serves as the national voice for the province and territory regulatory bodies.

Comprehending the licensing process and the expectations of the regulatory authority is also crucial. For instance, to work as a pharmacist in Canada, you must hold a license, regardless of your training or experience.

In addition, the PEPC evaluation test and a two-part qualifying exam must be finished. PEBC provides information on the qualifying and assessing exams.

You must acquire real-world experience working in a Canadian pharmacy to obtain your pharmacist license. The length of time you need to complete organized, practical training under the guidance of a licensed pharmacist will be decided by the provincial or territorial regulatory body.

Lastly, the Ordre des pharmaciens du Quebec standards must be adhered to if you come to Quebec.

Upgrading Your Skills

Upgrading your abilities is another step in becoming a pharmacist in Canada, in addition to certification. You can improve your abilities through other courses or bridge programs.

Pharmacists must be up to date on the latest pharmaceutical procedures and practices. Through continuing education classes and seminars, you can gain from continuous learning and professional development.

Although you may possess strong technical skills, obtaining or keeping a job frequently requires more. It is expected of a pharmacist to have a passion for helping people.

Strong communication and critical thinking abilities are also essential, and you must comprehend:

  • Biochemical mechanisms of action of drugs
  • Drug uses and therapeutic roles
  • Side effects and potential interactions

What is the Job Outlook for Pharmacist Jobs in Canada?

Knowing the job outlook and market trends can help you set reasonable goals for your job hunt. Approximately 45,000 pharmacists work nationwide. According to the government of Canada, pharmacists are in high demand, with opportunities available in every province.

Over 13,000 job opportunities will be created between 2019 and 2028. The market has increased because of the move to 24-hour retail services and pharmacists’ newly added responsibilities in providing health consultations and immunizations.

What is the Average Salary of Pharmacists in Canada?

According to Indeed Canada, the average base income for pharmacists in Canada is $146,567 annually, though pay may differ by province. In the United States of America (USA), Canada’s primary competitor in the international immigration market, the average base salary is 174,839 Canadian dollars.

The lack of preferred work advantages (including subsidized housing), longer work hours, and harsher working conditions in the US compensate for the more excellent wage offer, even though the average base salary is higher than Canada’s.

This is to keep Canada a desirable place for pharmacists to immigrate. Additionally, several factors affect pay, including location, practice setting, and degree of experience.

What are the Best Provinces in Canada to Get a Pharmacist Job?

It’s vital to gather as much information as possible about job prospects, especially since labor market conditions for 2019-2028 reveal that pharmacists are expected to face labor surplus conditions.

However, you will discover provinces and regions with good demand for pharmacists, such as Calgary and Edmonton in Alberta and Hamilton, Ottawa, and Windsor in Ontario.

Benefits of Immigrating to Canada as a Pharmacist

  • A high-end salary package: The pay for Pharmacists in Canada is among the best in the world for their profession. Pharmacists in Canada make an average base pay of $146,567 per year. However, their earnings can range from $143,848 – $160,324 based on their experience and the province they move to.
  • Outstanding Health Benefits: Pharmacists can access Canada’s subsidized healthcare coverage as citizens and permanent residents. Free MRI scans, physical exams, and other medical checks are included.
  • High Quality of Life: According to the United Nations (UN) Human Development Report, it was among the top 15 nations with the highest standard of living, with an HDI of 0.936. This grade is predicated on the nation’s exceptional track record of offering affordable housing, high-quality healthcare, and a low unemployment rate. As a pharmacist in Canada, you will be eligible for these benefits and the associated standard of living.

Conclusion

Securing a pharmacist job in Canada as a newcomer is a problematic but attainable objective. Your ambition can come true if you comprehend the prerequisites, follow the required procedures, and get licensed.

Advertisement

In addition, through perseverance, hard effort, and dedication, you can finish the process and start a fulfilling career in pharmacy. All the best in your journey to becoming a certified pharmacist in Canada!

Check this out :  Best-Paying Jobs For 2024