Are you feeling unsure which direction your pharmacy career should take?
With so many Pharmacy career options available today, choosing your path can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re just finishing your internship, ready for a new challenge, or curious about flexible working, knowing your options is the first step.
At LocumCo, we’ve been helping Pharmacists, students, and pharmacy support staff navigate their career journeys for over 39 years. From city-based hospitals to remote community pharmacies and everything in between, we’ve seen what works, and we’re here to help you find your fit.
Pharmacy Career Options: What Are They?
Pharmacists in Australia generally choose between three main career paths:
- Hospital Pharmacy
- Community Pharmacy
- Locum Pharmacy
Each has its own rhythm, challenges, and rewards. Let’s break them down.
Hospital Pharmacy: Structure, Specialisation and Teamwork
Hospital Pharmacists are integral to patient care in clinical settings.
You’ll work in multidisciplinary teams alongside doctors and nurses, often in high-pressure environments like emergency departments, cancer wards, or aged care facilities.
Pros:
- Clinical exposure and access to specialist medicines
- Opportunities for career progression and postgraduate study
- Collaboration with wider healthcare teams
Considerations:
- Usually full-time with fixed rosters
- Limited flexibility for location or hours
- May require postgraduate qualifications or experience
Best for: Pharmacists who enjoy structure, research, and a clinical team environment.
Community Pharmacy: People-Focused and Local Impact
Community Pharmacy is where many begin their journey, and for good reason. It’s the face of Pharmacy for most Australians. You’ll build relationships with regular customers, offer advice, manage scripts, and deliver health services.
Pros:
- Strong connection with patients
- Opportunities to manage or own a pharmacy
- Greater involvement in public health initiatives
Considerations:
- Fast-paced and sometimes physically demanding
- Evening or weekend shifts are common
- Can feel repetitive if not diversified with services
Best for: Pharmacists who love patient interaction and want to build a local presence.
Locum Pharmacy: Flexibility, Variety and Adventure
Locum Pharmacy lets you step into temporary roles on your terms. Whether you want to travel, experience different pharmacy environments, or simply take control of your schedule, locuming offers unmatched freedom.
Pros:
- Choose when and where you work
- Experience different pharmacy settings and systems
- Attractive pay rates and travel opportunities
Considerations:
- Requires adaptability to new teams and procedures
- No fixed routine or guaranteed hours
- Need to manage your own ABN and tax affairs
Best for: Pharmacists craving variety, flexibility, and work-life balance.
What About Early-Career Pharmacists?
If you’re a student or intern wondering how to get started, you’re in luck. LocumCo supports intern Pharmacists, pharmacy students, and early-career professionals with:
- Intern placement assistance with top-rated pharmacies
- Part-time roles to gain experience before graduation
- Locum Assistant opportunities for those eager to explore the industry early
Whether you’re in third year or post-registration, the right early steps matter, and we’ll help you make them.
How LocumCo Supports Every Pharmacy Career Path
We don’t just list jobs, we guide you through every step.
- Over 39 years of experience in pharmacy recruitment
- A network of over 21,000 Pharmacists and thousands of roles
- No fees for candidates, ever
- Full support for contract negotiation and placement compliance
- Reverse Job Board to let employers find you
- Support for Pharmacy Assistants, Dispensary Technicians, and Interns
- Assistance in building an ABN, keeping your AHPRA registration current, and navigating the job landscape
Whether you’re interested in a hospital role, a locum adventure, or building a career in community Pharmacy, LocumCo is here for it all.
We also provide shifts for training cover, conferences, and gap placements, we move fast, sometimes placing a Pharmacist within one hour.
And with our LocumCo+ Mobile App, it’s easier than ever to stay alert, manage your schedule, and communicate with us quickly.
Where Do You See Yourself?
Pharmacy is a profession with room to grow, pivot, and explore. One path isn’t better than another, it’s about what works for you now, and where you want to go next.
You can even mix and match: many Pharmacists start in community roles, locum to gain experience, then move into hospital settings or ownership.
Ready to Find the Right Pharmacy Job?
Whether you’re an experienced Pharmacist or starting out, LocumCo makes finding your ideal role easier, faster, and more professional.
Join our Reverse Job Board to get discovered by employers, or browse current vacancies. Still figuring it out?
Contact us directly, and we’ll help you map a career plan that suits your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to work as a Locum Pharmacist?
To work as a locum, you must be a registered Pharmacist with an active AHPRA registration, a valid ABN, and professional indemnity insurance. An up-to-date CV also helps you stand out.
How does LocumCo help me find Pharmacy jobs?
LocumCo offers personalised recruitment, access to exclusive roles, and tools like our Reverse Job Board. You’ll receive full support from job search through to placement, at no cost to you.
Can I work both community and hospital roles?
Yes, many Pharmacists work across both sectors during their career. LocumCo can help you explore both pathways based on your experience and interests.
Do I need to update my AHPRA details to register with LocumCo?
No, we don’t require updated AHPRA details for our service. However, having your registration active and compliant is essential before starting work.