Part of the pharmacist's job is to know all about the medications they dole out, as they will be advising people on how much and when to take certain medications, what, if any side effects a drug has as well as how multiple medications may interact with another. If you are interested in a pharmaceutical job, read on to find out how you can get into this exciting career.
Education
Like doctors and nurses, pharmaceutical jobs require a certain amount of schooling. A Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy is the minimum level of education most pharmaceutical job opportunities will accept, with many preferring an advanced degree such as a Doctor of Pharmacy. Make sure to attend a reputable, accredited school to put yourself in the best position to get a great pharmaceutical job.
Completing an internship is one of the most important steps you can take in your search for a pharmaceutical job. Interning allows you to see the day to day workings of a pharmacy and is the first step in gaining both actual job experience as a pharmacist and making contacts that will help you find a great pharmaceutical job later.
Every state also requires anyone looking for a pharmaceutical job to pass a standardized test in order to be licenses. Without that state license, most pharmaceutical jobs are off limits. Keep in mind that continuing education will also be required throughout your pharmaceutical career. New drugs come out all the time and laws about medications can change frequently. As a pharmacist, you will need to keep up with all the latest developments in order to keep your patients well and healthy.
Finding a Job
If you are just about to finish your schooling and set out to look for your first pharmaceutical job opportunity, make sure to visit your school's career office. Career guidance counselors are likely to have lots of information about current pharmaceutical job openings in your area.
Take a look at all the pharmacies in the area you want to work and send them your resume. Be sure that your resume is free of any grammar, punctuation or spelling errors before you start sending it out as these errors make you look unqualified. When sending out your resume, you should include a cover letter introducing yourself and highlighting your qualifications or achievements that make you suitable for a pharmaceutical job. Including copies of your pharmacy school transcripts is also a good idea.
Search job websites online for pharmaceutical job openings. Websites such as HealthcareRecruitment.com frequently have listings of pharmaceutical jobs in your area and throughout the country.
