How to find a pharmacist graduate intern position

[baronzb]

I'm studying for the NAPLEX after a hiatus from graduating in May. Can I start applying to jobs now (and what kinds) or do I need to get a state license first? I don't know what state I will practice in (job permitting). If I'm not licensed in that state, can I apply to that job? Thanks for all the help.

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[mustang sally]

You can apply for jobs without a license; however, some places may not hire you because you don't have one.
The hospital that I work at has hired several new grads prior to licensure, so it does happen.

Don't take this the wrong way, but I probably wouldn't hire someone who graduated in May and still isn't licensed at this point in time. I know it could have been due to circumstances beyond your control, but it isn't a risk I would take.

 

[BidingMyTime]

This seems to be a common theme, I've run into several new pharmacists who wait months before they take the NAPLEX. I really don't get it, if I were graduating, I would sign up to take the NAPLEX at the first available date. Sooner you are licensed, sooner you can start a real pharmacist job.

 

[baronzb]

You can apply for jobs without a license; however, some places may not hire you because you don't have one.
The hospital that I work at has hired several new grads prior to licensure, so it does happen.

Don't take this the wrong way, but I probably wouldn't hire someone who graduated in May and still isn't licensed at this point in time. I know it could have been due to circumstances beyond your control, but it isn't a risk I would take.

I was finishing a masters. Anyway, what concerns should I address when trying to find an intern job at this point? I was going to use it build a resume as I'm studying for the NAPLEX, get licensed, and work in another state.

 

[VP_Pharm2004]

You have to be licensed in that state as a intern at least. No one will hire you in another state without any licenses since you cannot work in that state AT ALL.

Honestly, you don't have a chance of landing a job in another state unless they're desperate and can wait until you get licensed in that state as a pharmacist. Most job posting will clearly ask: Are you licensed in this state as a pharmacist or pharmacy intern? If no, HR will throw your application in the trash.

 

[SpartanLaser]

I could use some graduate interns in my store 🙂

 

[baronzb]

You have to be licensed in that state as a intern at least. No one will hire you in another state without any licenses since you cannot work in that state AT ALL.

Honestly, you don't have a chance of landing a job in another state unless they're desperate and can wait until you get licensed in that state as a pharmacist. Most job posting will clearly ask: Are you licensed in this state as a pharmacist or pharmacy intern? If no, HR will throw your application in the trash.

What about large national companies, such as CVS, Omnicare? They have specific geographical positions, but it doesn't take too long to get a license once the Naplex is out of the way.

 

[Sine Cura]

Sometimes it takes forever for even an intern license to clear depending on the state (California and even Arizona now with the new fingerprinting requirements).