Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Pharmacist is a healthcare professional responsible for dispensing medications prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners. They also provide expertise about the safe use of medications, including consultations on dosages, potential side effects, and interactions.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 2.6% (average)
Annual job openings: 14 200
Direct AI exposure: 29% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 51% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Pharmacists. According to the wage tables, average income is $115K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $83K per year | $104K per year | $115K per year | $128K per year | $139K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $50K above the national average. | ||||
Pharmacists typically work in pharmacies, which can be located in drugstores, grocery stores, hospitals, and healthcare facilities. They often work in clean, well-organized environments but may spend a lot of time standing. Work schedules can include nights, weekends, and holidays, particularly in facilities that are open 24/7.
Pharmacists play a critical role in healthcare by ensuring safe and effective medication use. Their knowledge of pharmaceuticals is vital for advising patients and healthcare providers. They must stay up-to-date with new drugs and treatments, as well as with laws and regulations regarding drug dispensation.
In their daily practice, pharmacists review prescriptions to assure accuracy, determine medications' potential interactions, and counsel patients on how to take medicines safely and effectively. They must also manage pharmacy operations, including supervising staff, handling inventory, and maintaining patient records.
The profession requires strong analytical skills to understand and interpret medical data and excellent communication skills for interacting with patients and healthcare providers. Pharmacists need to be detail-oriented, as accuracy is crucial in dispensing medications and advising patients.
Becoming a pharmacist usually requires a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, which typically takes four years to complete post-bachelor's degree. Admission to a Pharm.D. program requires at least two years of specific undergraduate coursework. Pharmacists also need to be licensed, which involves passing two exams.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
