How much does a pharmacist earn?

Relaying on the doctor's side, the pharmacist guarantees the distribution of medicines and associated treatments, in compliance with legislation and good practice. As we saw in our pharmacist mé tier fact sheet, the pharmacist usually works in a pharmacy (or dispensary), but may also work in laboratories or even hospitals. As part of this role, the pharmacist manages stocks, assists patients with their care, takes part in screening and vaccination campaigns, and manages other aspects of the facility's operations.

Factors influencing rémunération in pharmacy

Here is a non-exhaustive list of criteria for determining the pharmacist's rémunération: 

• L’expérience : pharmacists at the beginning of their careers generally have lower salaries, but these will increase steadily as they earn more money;as they gain experience and move up the organization's hierarchy, from assistant pharmacist to managing pharmacist, for example.
• The location : when setting up, the pharmacist will have to take into account certain criteria that will influence his income. These include the standard of living of local residents, the location of the pharmacy, and the population density that will drive the flow.
• The types of practice : as we saw earlier, pharmacists can practice under very different conditions. For example, a pharmacist working in a private clinic will earn more than a pharmacist employed in a traditional dispensary.

Pharmacist salary grid in 2023

Often (if not always), the pharmacist's salaryis set according to the associate sector's salary grid. The latter ensures that professionals receive salary increases based on seniority, as well as providing guidance when applying for a pharmacist job offer. On average, pharmacists are ranked between coefficients 500 and 600 in the following table: 

Avancées et réforms salariales récentes

The latest SMIC revaluation in January 2024 has had an impact on the pharmaceutical sector. Although pharmacists' salaries are generally above the minimum income, it has led to an increase in salaries in certain structures, particularly for assistants and technicians.

In addition, certain regulatory changes have also had an impact on salaries in this speciality. New laws aimed at improving working conditions and enhancing recognition of specialized skills have led to adjustments in regulations. The aim of these rules is to attract more professionals to the sector and ensure better distribution of pharmacists across the country.

In the same vein, check out our pharmacist salary sheet!

Improve your salary as a pharmacist

Throughout his career, a pharmacist will have multiple levers at his disposal to improve his salary, such as:

• Training : additional certifications in oncology, geriatrics or pharmacotherapeutics can increase their value on the job market and enable them to negotiate higher salaries.
• La mutation : by changing employer and moving to a region under pressure, the pharmacist is likely to obtain better incomes. 
• Salary negotiation : in addition to the basic salary, it is possible to negotiate benefits such as bonuses, additional paid leave, employer-paid training or flexible working hours. Good preparation, an overall understanding of the market and of their personal value can help pharmacists secure better working conditions.
• Entrepreneurship :becoming the owner or co-owner of a pharmacy can be lucrative, even if it involves risks and requires an initial investment.

In conclusion, pharmacist salaries depend on multiple factors such as experience, training or location. By investing in ongoing training and adopting effective negotiation strategies, these professionals are likely to improve their salary prospects and working conditions.

Did you like this article and want to learn more about this trade? Find out more in our pharmacist fact sheet!