Job prospects Community Pharmacist in the Saint John–St. Stephen Region

Over the past few years (2021-2023), there was a labour shortage for Pharmacists in the Saint John–St. Stephen Region. There were more job openings than workers available to fill them in this occupation.

Source Labour Market Information | Recent Trends Methodology

The employment outlook will be good for Pharmacists (NOC 31120) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2024-2026 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
• A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

• As the population continues to age, the growing need for prescription drugs and health services will support the demand for this occupation. An increase in the number of pharmacies at retail chains, combined with added services to improve access to care, may add to employment opportunities.
• Furthermore, resource pressures across the health delivery network have resulted in an expanded role for pharmacists in service delivery, enabling them to provide a broader range of services. Pharmacists may prescribe medicines; give COVID, flu shots, and other vaccines; assess, treat and prescribe for certain minor ailments and review medications and provide health checks. On the other hand, with the advent of the regulated Pharmacy Technician, it is possible that some employers may choose to reduce pharmacist hours in favor of the latter, as these professionals are less costly to employ.
• Shift work in this field is common. More opportunities will be available to those who speak French, as there are more vacancies in the province's francophone communities. As part of their annual licensing requirements, pharmacists must take a certain amount of continuing education in order keep up to date on industry and product information.
• In order to work in New Brunswick, a pharmacist must register with the New Brunswick College of Pharmacists. Candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

Here are some key facts about Pharmacists in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

• Approximately 220 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
• Pharmacists mainly work in the following sectors:
  • Retail Trade (NAICS 44-45): 77%
  • Hospitals (NAICS 622): 23%

Source Labour Market Information | Prospects Methodology