Pharmacy Assistant / Dispenser

Vets for Pets; Basildon; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Vets for Pets Basildon is seeking a Pharmacy Assistant / Dispenser for our busy 24-hour veterinary hospital. The role supports the Pharmacy Manager and clinical team in safe preparation, dispensing, and supply of medicines, while advising clients and maintaining records.

The ideal candidate will be methodical, detail-focused, and able to work in a fast-paced environment, with a commitment to patient safety, teamwork, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Must be methodical, accurate and highly organised.
• High concentration and attention to detail are essential.
• Confidentiality and professionalism are required in a clinical setting.

Responsibilities

• Accurately select, label and dispense medications to ensure safe supply.
• Dispense controlled drugs in line with governance requirements.
• Handover dispensed medicines to clients safely and correctly at point of supply.

Skills

Methodical

Accurate

Organised

Attention to detail

Communication

Teamwork

IT skills

Dispensing systems

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services

Tools

Dispensing software

Job description

Pharmacy Assistant / Dispenser

24-Hour Veterinary Hospital | Basildon

Hours: 30 hours per week
Working pattern: 4 Days a week 11am-6pm + 1 in 4 full weekends
Salary: £12.30-£12.71 per hour
Contract: Permanent

About the Role

We are looking for a dedicated and detail-focused Pharmacy Assistant / Dispenser to join our growing team at our busy 24-hour veterinary hospital.

Working under supervision of the Pharmacy Manager and clinical team, you will play a vital role in the safe preparation, dispensing, and supply of medicines for our patients. You will be a key part of our multidisciplinary hospital team, supporting clinicians, advising clients, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the highest standards of medicines management and compliance.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a pharmacy background who is passionate about accuracy, patient safety, and teamwork, and who thrives in a fast-paced clinical environment.

Main Responsibilities

• Accurately select, label, and dispense medications in line with Standard Operating Procedures to ensure safe supply
• Dispense controlled drugs in accordance with legal and hospital governance requirements
• Ensure safe and correct handover of dispensed medicines to clients at point of supply
• Identify and elevate potential issues such as drug interactions, administration challenges, or compliance concerns
• Create, maintain, and update patient medication records, ensuring confidentiality and GDPR compliance
• Support stock control and inventory management, helping to maximise availability and minimise waste
• Ensure the safe, secure, and appropriate storage of medicines at all times
• Assist with preparation of monitored dosage systems for patients on complex or long-term medication regimes
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of pharmacy and medicines management, actively engaging in CPD
• Support and mentor colleagues through training and development activities
• Work collaboratively within the hospital team, contributing to overall clinical and business objectives
• Undertake additional duties as required to support the smooth running of the hospital pharmacy service

Person Specification

Essential

• Methodical, accurate, and highly organised approach to work
• High level of concentration and attention to detail
• Trustworthy, professional, and fully aware of confidentiality requirements
• Strong communication skills with a friendly, client-focused approach
• Ability to work effectively to deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent team-working skills with a positive, supportive attitude
• Confident IT skills and ability to use clinical and dispensing systems

Desirable

• NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services (or equivalent)
• Previous experience in a pharmacy, healthcare, or clinical dispensing environment
• Commitment to ongoing training and professional development

Why Join Us?

• Work within a modern, well-equipped 24-hour hospital environment
• Be part of a supportive, multidisciplinary team with a strong learning culture
• Opportunities for training, development, and progression
• A role where accuracy, professionalism, and patient care truly matter

We take our inspiration from pets in embracing people from all walks of life, and we value, respect and celebrate difference. We encourage our people to be their best selves so that we can create a better world for Pets, our Planet, and People. Our ambition is to reflect the diversity of the communities we operate in, and we are intentional in addressing and removing barriers to create opportunities for the exceptional talent and potential in our communities. Even if your skills and experience don’t perfectly align, if you think you can make a unique contribution through your values and behaviours, we want to hear from you!