Key Insights
Pharmacists are a dynamic career within the sector, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for professionals seeking meaningful work.
The median annual salary for this occupation is $137,480, which is above the typical salary for this field. Over the next decade, employment is projected to grow by 5.0%, following overall growth trends and steady opportunities . The automation risk for this occupation is 8.0%. This suggests a high degree of job security, as automation is less likely to impact this role in the near future. Work-life balance is rated as 5.8, which can be an important factor for job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Individuals with Social, Investigative, or Conventional personality traits tend to thrive in this career. Key skills for success include Analytical skills, Communication skills, Compassion, Detail oriented, Interpersonal skills, Managerial skills. Developing and refining these abilities can set you apart from other candidates and help you excel in your role. Notable strengths for this occupation are High Demand, Flexible Work, Continuous Learning. Leveraging these strengths can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Some common challenges professionals may encounter include Burnout Risk, Rapid Technological Change. Being aware of these potential obstacles can help you prepare and develop strategies to overcome them.
The highest employment levels for this occupation are found in California, offering strong job prospects in that region. The leading industry for this role is Ambulatory healthcare services, which may provide additional opportunities for specialization and growth.
Whether you are just starting your career journey or looking to make a change, Pharmacists offers a compelling mix of salary potential, job outlook, and personal fit. By understanding the key factors that influence success in this field, you can make informed decisions and position yourself for long-term achievement.
What They Do
Pharmacists dispense medications, provide health advice, and ensure the safe and effective use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. They counsel patients, monitor treatment plans, and collaborate with healthcare providers. Their work is critical in healthcare, patient safety, and medication management.
This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy healthcare, science, and helping patients maintain or improve their health.
What Do Pharmacists Do?
These professionals review prescriptions, counsel patients, and manage medication therapy.
Common responsibilities include:
- Filling and dispensing prescriptions accurately
- Reviewing patient medication histories for interactions and contraindications
- Counseling patients on proper use, side effects, and storage of medications
- Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers
- Monitoring patient treatment and adjusting therapy in consultation with healthcare teams
- Managing pharmacy inventory, records, and compliance with regulations
- Staying updated on new medications, treatments, and healthcare guidelines
Key Areas of Pharmacy Practice
Pharmacists may specialize in different practice areas:
- Community Pharmacy: Dispensing medications and counseling patients in retail settings
- Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy: Managing medication therapy for hospitalized patients
- Specialty Pharmacy: Providing drugs for chronic, complex, or rare conditions
- Consultant and Long-Term Care Pharmacy: Advising healthcare facilities on medication management
- Pharmaceutical Research and Education: Contributing to drug development and training healthcare professionals
Skills and Abilities Needed
Pharmacists combine scientific knowledge with communication, attention to detail, and clinical skills.
Core Professional Skills
- Knowledge of pharmacology and therapeutics - Prescription review and medication dispensing - Patient counseling and education - Drug interaction and safety assessment - Pharmacy management and regulatory compliance - Collaboration with healthcare teamsPersonal Qualities That Matter
- Attention to detail and accuracy - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Communication and interpersonal skills - Ethical judgment and integrity - Patience and empathy - Ability to work independently and in teamsEducation and Career Pathway
This role requires formal education and licensure:
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) Degree: Required for professional practice
- Internship or Residency: Practical clinical experience under supervision
- Licensure: Passing national and state examinations to practice legally
- Continuing Education: Maintaining knowledge of new medications, treatments, and regulations
Where Do Pharmacists Work?
They are employed in various healthcare and pharmaceutical settings:
- Retail and Community Pharmacies
- Hospitals and Clinics
- Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities
- Pharmaceutical Companies and Research Laboratories
- Consulting and Educational Institutions
Work environments include pharmacies, hospital wards, labs, and office settings.
Is This Career Difficult?
This career requires strong attention to detail, scientific knowledge, and the ability to handle responsibility for patient health and safety. Pharmacists must accurately dispense medications and provide guidance on complex treatments.
Who Should Consider This Career?
This career may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy science, medicine, and patient care
- Have strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Can communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams
- Are detail-oriented and ethical
- Want a career ensuring safe and effective medication use
How to Prepare Early
- Take courses in biology, chemistry, and health sciences
- Gain experience through internships or volunteer work in healthcare settings
- Develop strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills
- Research pharmacy schools and professional pathways
- Stay informed on advances in medications, treatments, and healthcare regulations
Pharmacists safeguard patient health by managing medications, counseling patients, and ensuring safe and effective therapeutic outcomes.
Career Video
Key facts
Top Skills
StartRight Career Intelligence Metrics
Job Growth Outlook
+5.0%Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
5.8/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 34,490
- Texas 22,720
- New York 21,330
- Florida 20,270
- Pennsylvania 15,120
- Ohio 13,700
- Illinois 12,450
- Georgia 11,480
- North Carolina 11,440
- New Jersey 10,930
Regional Wage Variations
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California +20%$165,150
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Texas 0%$136,950
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New York -1%$136,350
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Florida -1%$135,460
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Pennsylvania -1%$135,830
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Ohio -2%$134,440
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Illinois -1%$135,880
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Georgia -4%$132,400
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North Carolina -1%$136,000
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New Jersey -4%$132,510