Pharmacy Assistant

Halton Region is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value, welcome and respect the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals. We encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples (First Nation, Métis, Inuit), Black and racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Accommodations are available at any point upon request for candidates participating in the selection process.

Employees of Public Health are expected to provide high quality programs and services including but not limited to sexual health, harm reduction and immunization clinic services by demonstrating respectful, inclusive, non-judgmental values.

Posting ID: 4342
Department: Health
Division: Immunization Services
Pay Range: $63,651 - $79,564
Job Type: Permanent
Hours of Work: 35 hours per week
Work Location: Halton Regional Center, 1151 Bronte Road, Oakville
Employee Group: OCT
Posting Date: July 14, 2025
Application Deadline: July 20, 2025

Please be advised that the results of this competition may be used to fill subsequent vacancies of the same position within the next 18 months.

If you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with Halton Region but don’t meet every qualification listed, we still encourage you to apply! This position may be eligible for an underfill opportunity for candidates who do not meet every qualification. We’re always on the lookout for exceptional talent to join our team!

Job Summary

Reporting to the Public Health Pharmacist, the Pharmacy Assistant supports processes required for the safe and efficient distribution, transportation, storage and handling, and inventory management of publicly funded vaccines and medications within Halton Region.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Under the supervision of Pharmacists, the Pharmacy Assistant plays a key role in inventory management and supply processes for publicly funded vaccines and medications, in accordance with the Ministry of Health’s Vaccine Storage and Handling Protocol and other guidance documents. This includes receiving, storing, packing, distributing and processing returns.
• Ensures vaccines are properly stored and handled, and that cold chain is maintained throughout all stages of the distribution process to preserve vaccine integrity and efficacy.
• Conducts periodic cycle counts and participates in inventory planning meetings to ensure adequate stock levels to meet the needs of Halton’s population.
• Implements quality control measures to prevent distribution errors and wastage.
• Maintains cold chain monitoring and storage equipment, develops and maintains equipment rotation schedules and ensures routine maintenance of this equipment.
• Reviews temperature logs from physician practices, Long Term Care & Retirement Homes, pharmacies, etc. and identifies cold-chain issues.
• Creates/receives shipments, enters inventory management data, sorts and generates reports on various spreadsheets and database programs including Panorama and COVaxON.
• Responds to and liaises with both internal and external stakeholders, promptly managing inquiries and resolving concerns as appropriate.
• Participates in quality improvement projects and provides input into the development and revision of internal processes and procedures.
• Participates on work groups, task forces and special projects as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications

• Successful completion of a secondary school diploma or post-secondary degree, preferably in a science or medical related field.
• Demonstrated ability to enter and manipulate a large amount of data with superior accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Superior customer service and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to maintain positive, professional working relationships with team members and internal/external stakeholders.
• Excellent administrative, time management, organization/ planning and self-management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to learn a variety of software programs.
• Proficient in use of Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of Vaccine Storage and Handling Guidelines.
• Experience with Panorama and/or COVaxON.
• Knowledge of medical/pharmaceutical terminology.
• Pharmacy assistant education, training or experience is considered an asset.

Working/ Employment Conditions

Working Conditions:

• This position works fully in-office at the Halton Regional Centre located at 1151 Bronte Road, Oakville.

• Flexibility required for work schedule to accommodate shifts, including occasional weekend work to support program needs.

• Physical demands include being able to sit/stand for extended periods of time, bend, lift, push, pull and move heavy materials, equipment and boxes.

• Tolerate working within a vaccine fridge room with cooler ambient temperatures.

• Travel may be required; the incumbent must provide their own transportation.

Employment Conditions:

• The successful candidate(s) will be made an offer of employment on condition that the Regional Municipality of Halton receives a current (obtained within the past six (6) months), original and acceptable Criminal Record Check by the first day of employment.
• Able to provide a current complete record of immunization according to the Ontario provincial immunization schedule.
• Will provide a copy of a valid Ontario driver’s license by the first day of employment.

Important information about your application:

• In accordance with requirements in Ontario Regulation 191/11 – Integrated Accessibility Standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Halton Region will accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform the Talent Acquisition representative of the nature of the accommodation(s) you require.

• Please submit your application online. We will accommodate individual needs for applicants with disabilities and others who are not able to apply online. If you experience any issues with submitting your application, please contact HR Access at 905-825-6000 extension 7700.

• Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on the deadline date specified on the posting.

• We encourage applications from all qualified individuals; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

• Personal information collected through the job application process will only be used for the purpose of determining qualifications for employment.

• If selected for an interview, you will be contacted by email and/or phone. Please ensure the contact information provided on your resume is up to date and that you check your email and voicemail regularly.

Halton Region serves more than 650,000 residents throughout Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville. We are committed to delivering high quality programs and services that make Halton a great place to live and work. We engage great people who contribute to meaningful work that makes a positive difference in our community. At Halton, you are encouraged to grow and succeed in your career and are recognized for your accomplishments and contributions. As an employee, you will be part of a progressive, service focused and award winning employer with a diverse and inclusive work environment.