Pharmacy Associate

Sf Spca; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401k with match

Student debt relief

Job summary

San Francisco SPCA is seeking a Pharmacy Associate to join our veterinary hospital team. This on-site role supports medication dispensing, client communication, and comprehensive pharmacy operations within a nonprofit medical setting.

The position emphasizes accuracy, compassionate service, and adherence to safety and regulatory requirements, with a 4/10 schedule and Mon-Sat hours. Prior veterinary experience is preferred but training is provided for animal medications.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Proficiency in English (written and verbal).
• Strong math skills and ability to perform dosage calculations.
• Experience in customer service.
• Familiarity with human medications; training provided for animal meds.
• Veterinary experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare prescriptions accurately and record details in medical records.
• Process prescription refills via phone, text, fax, online, or in person.
• Communicate with clients via phone, text, email, and online platforms.
• Dispense medications and educate on usage and administration.
• Maintain pharmacy inventory and minimize waste; ensure proper labeling and dispensing.
• Handle payments and process transactions.
• Track controlled substances in compliance with laws.
• Support Lean improvements and workflow efficiency.

Skills

Customer service

Pharmacy terminology

English proficiency

Medical record keeping

Computer skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Pharmacy software

Job description

Description

Join a team at the intersection of exceptional veterinary care and social change.

At the San Francisco SPCA, we believe every pet deserves compassionate, high-quality veterinary care—no matter their guardian’s financial situation. As a nonprofit, we break down barriers to care by offering financial assistance and individualized medical support to thousands of animals each year. Our work doesn’t serve shareholders—it serves pets, people, and the community.

We are looking for a customer service-oriented Pharmacy Associate to join our team! Our pharmacy is located within our full-service Veterinary Hospital. While you will be working in a veterinary hospital environment, you will not be expected to work hands-on with animals. This role reports to the Manager of Clinical Operations and works a 4/10 schedule. The pharmacy hours are currently Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, subject to change based on operational needs.

Core Responsibilities:

• Prepare prescriptions accurately and record prescription details in medical records
• Record prescription refill requests made via:
  • Phone, Text, Fax
  • Online Pharmacy
  • In Person
• Communicate with clients via:
  • Phone
  • Text
  • Email
  • Online Pharmacy platform
• Dispense medications to clients, educate on usage and administration of medications
• Dispense and distribute medications and provide drug information to the hospital staff
• Follow the requirements for labeling and dispensing medications
• Maintain pharmacy inventory and supplies
• Minimize waste and maximize cost saving when possible
• Complete payment transactions in person
• Contact manufacturers for technical support for doctors
• Complete Adverse Reaction Reports
• Track controlled drugs in compliance with state and federal laws
• Ensure a continuous workflow
• Participate in efforts to streamline workflows and implement Lean improvement processes

Requirements

• High School Diploma, High School Proficiency Diploma or General Education Diploma
• Proficiency in the English language (written and oral)
• Good math skills, including dosage calculations (willing to train compounding calculations.)
• Previous experience with excellent customer service
• Solid knowledge of basic human drugs (brand names and generic names) we will train you on animal specific medications
• Previous veterinary experience as a Veterinary Assistant, Veterinary Technician, or Veterinary Pharmacy Technician preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Commitment to the mission, values, goals, and success of the San Francisco SPCA
• Comfort around animals, clients, and medical procedures (while delivering medications you may see medical procedures taking place)
• Self-motivated, eager and confident in ability to learn, practice and master new skills
• Ability to follow a variety of protocols including safety, disease prevention, and pharmacy procedures
• Solid interpersonal communication skills
• Sound judgement and common sense
• Experience and comfort with computer operations and software programs
• This is a fast-paced position where multitasking and attention to detail is critical
• Ability to professionally handle cash & credit card transactions
• Ability to work 1 weekend day per week, either Saturday or Sunday
• Affection for animals, concern for their welfare and a willingness to accommodate animals in the work place

Physical Requirements:

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

• Work is performed in a veterinary hospital setting
• Ability to tolerate walking and standing for sustained and prolonged periods of time
• Frequent bending, reaching, kneeling, twisting, and sufficient grip strength while working with supplies
• Possess eyesight capable of viewing small images
• Capable of lifting from floor to waist level up to 30 pounds unassisted, and up to 50 or more pounds with assistance
• Regular sitting at a computer station and operation of electronic equipment
• Consistent exposure to animals and animal allergens under conditions with limited alternatives available
• Hours and shifts will include one weekend day and evenings - 4/10 shift type

Salary and Benefits:

The starting salary for this position depends on the depth and breadth of experience. The expected range is $27 - $30 per hour.

Regular, full-time positions are eligible for a benefits package including:

• Paid Time Off and Holiday pay
• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-term Disability Insurance
• 401k Retirement Plan and contribution matching
• Student debt relief program
• Pre-tax Commuter Benefits
• Discounts on retail and pet supplies
• Discounts on veterinary care at our SF SPCA Veterinary Hospital and Clinic

The SF SPCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This job description reflects the assignment of essential functions and does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The San Francisco SPCA is an at-will employer and may conduct pre-employment background checks and drug screening depending on the role.