Islay Pharmacy

Join Our Team

 

Careers at Islay Pharmacy

At Islay Pharmacy, we’re proud to be a family-owned and run community pharmacy at the heart of Bowmore. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent healthcare and friendly service to both locals and visitors.

We believe in supporting our staff to grow and develop their careers, offering full training, nationally recognised qualifications, and the chance to make a real difference in our island community.

Below you’ll find our current opportunities to join the team.


Job Opportunity: Trainee Pharmacy Assistant

Employer: Islay Pharmacy, Bowmore
Contract: Full-time, permanent (following successful 3-month probation).
Hours: 36 paid hours per week:

  • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 9:00am – 6:00pm (1 hour unpaid lunch).

  • Tuesday: 9:00am – 1:00pm.

About Us

Islay Pharmacy is a family-owned and run community pharmacy serving the people of Islay. We are fast-growing, community-focused, and committed to providing high-quality healthcare to our local community and visitors.

About the Role

  • Full-time position (36 paid hours per week).

  • Initial 3-month probationary period.

  • No previous pharmacy experience required — full training will be provided.

  • Previous customer-facing experience would be desirable.

  • Training towards: Medicines Counter Assistant Course and Level 2 Dispensing Course.

Pay & Progression

  • Starting rate: £12.21 per hour.

  • After Counter Assistant Course: £12.50 per hour.

  • Further increases after Level 2 Dispensing qualification.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Serve patients and the public with excellent customer care.

  • OTC sales of medicines and healthcare products.

  • Support preparation, labelling and dispensing (under supervision).

  • Keep accurate records; follow legal/ethical standards.

  • Give medicines advice once trained.

  • Support Pharmacy First Scotland and other NHS services.

  • Receive deliveries, manage stock rotation and merchandising.

  • Maintain a clean, organised pharmacy environment.

  • Work collaboratively to keep the pharmacy running smoothly

What We’re Looking For

  • Friendly, approachable and professional manner.

  • Good communication skills.

  • Strong IT and computer literacy.

  • Ability to multi-task and prioritise.

  • Good memory and attention to detail.

  • Strong organisational skills and willingness to learn.

  • Team player.

  • Minimum National 5 passes in English and Maths C or above (or equivalent) required.

What We Offer

  • Full-time, permanent role on successful completion of the probationary period.

  • 36 paid hours with structured working pattern.

  • 28 days paid holiday (including statutory Bank Holidays).

  • Company pension scheme.

  • Staff discount on pharmacy and retail products.

  • Clear training and development pathway.

  • Supportive, welcoming family-run team environment.

  • Real progression routes and long-term job security.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a close-knit island community, make a real difference every day, and build a rewarding career in a trusted healthcare setting.

Equal Opportunities

We are an equal opportunities employer. All applicants are considered on their merits, skills and qualifications, without discrimination on the basis of age, gender, disability, race, religion or any other protected characteristic.

Next Steps

  • Applications close: Wednesday 17th September 2025.

  • Interviews held: Week commencing 22nd September 2025

  • Expected start date: As soon as possible.


📧 How to Apply


Send your CV and a short covering letter to:

Simon Simpson
Islay Pharmacy
42 Main Street
Bowmore
Isle of Islay
PA43 7JJ

✉️ islaypharmacy@hotmail.co.uk

📞 01496 301591
🌐 www.islaypharmacy.co.uk