Pharmacist Assistant Grade 1 To 3 – Cape Town – Department Of Health

Pharmacist Assistant Grade 1 to 3 in the Department of Health, Cape Town, for a rewarding government job in South Africa

Published 16 October 2026
Closing Date Closed
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Health is seeking dedicated individuals for the role of Pharmacist Assistant Grade 1 to 3 (Post Basic) at the Cape Medical Depot. This position is pivotal in ensuring that pharmaceutical supplies are managed effectively, contributing to the health and well-being of the community. Located in Cape Town, this role allows you to engage directly with healthcare logistics, improving patient care through efficient medicine distribution and inventory management.

As a Pharmacist Assistant, you will be on the front lines of public service, helping to facilitate the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. Your contributions will not only support healthcare professionals but also enhance the overall health services provided to the community. This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives while working within a structured and supportive environment.

About the Department

The Department of Health is committed to providing accessible and quality healthcare services to all South Africans. Its mission encompasses promoting health, preventing illness, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources. Working here means playing a crucial role in a system that prioritizes public health and community welfare, making every day an opportunity to contribute to a healthier nation.

What You’ll Do

  • Oversee helpdesk operations to ensure efficient service delivery.
  • Provide customer care and manage queries from suppliers and couriers.
  • Assist in inventory management and warehouse support tasks.
  • Conduct general administrative duties while ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
  • Support staff development initiatives within the department.

What You’ll Need

  • A Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification recognized by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
  • Current registration with the SAPC as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) or Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic – Warehousing).
  • Relevant experience:
  • Grade 1: No experience required post-registration.
  • Grade 2: Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Grade 3: Minimum of 13 years of relevant experience.
  • Willingness to work overtime when necessary.
  • Competence in handling pharmaceutical supplies, particularly in a warehouse setting.
  • Strong literacy, numeric, and computer skills, including MS Office applications.
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Physical ability to lift heavy objects and operate machinery like stackers and pallet jacks.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

Requirements

Minimum educational qualification: As required by the training facility and the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) plus Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification that allows registration with SAPC as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) Warehousing.

Registration with a professional council: Current registration with the SAPC as a Pharmacist Assistant Post Basic or Pharmacist Assistant Post Basic (Warehousing).

Experience: Grade 1: None after registration with the SAPC as Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic).

Grade 2: A minimum of 5 years appropriate experience as Pharmacist Assistant after registration as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) with the SAPC.

Grade 3: A minimum of 13 years appropriate experience as Pharmacist Assistant after registration as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post-Basic) with the SAPC.

Inherent requirements of the job: Willingness to work overtime when required.

Competencies (knowledge/skills): Knowledge and/or experience in handling pharmaceutical supplies particularly in a warehouse environment, including Cold Chain Practices.

Knowledge of Drug Supply Management 282 Principles.

Good knowledge of wholesale warehouse practices and procedures.

Good literacy and numeric skills.

The ability to work in a warehouse type situation and have the physical dexterity.

Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams).

Ability to lift heavy objects and operate heavy machinery- stackers, pallet jacks, Hyster.

Good interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to work independently as well as in a team.

Ability to comply with applicable legislation.

Ability to work accurately under pressure and maintain a high work ethic.

Job Duties

Helpdesk oversight and management.

Customer Care, Supplier, Courier - Query Management.

Inventory Management and Warehouse Support.

General administration, Assistance, legal requirements, staff development.

Salary

Grade 1: R275 340 per annum Grade 2: R318 666 per annum Grade 3: R343 761 per annum

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re-advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Ms C Buthelezi Tel No: (021) 483-8804