Pharmacist Salary Montreal play an essential role in Canada’s healthcare system, ensuring the safe and effective use of medications for a diverse population. As a metropolitan hub with world-renowned hospitals, universities, and research institutions, Montreal presents numerous opportunities for pharmacy professionals. Whether you’re a recent graduate, an internationally trained pharmacist, or someone considering relocating to this vibrant city, understanding the salary landscape is crucial to making informed career decisions.
In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of Pharmacist Salary Montreal, from average earnings and factors influencing pay to job prospects, benefits, and the future outlook of the profession in Quebec.
Key Takeaways
- Average Pharmacist Salary Montreal ranges between CAD $90,000 and $115,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and setting.
- Community pharmacists tend to earn less than those in hospital or clinical settings due to differences in responsibilities and work environments.
- Bilingualism (French and English) is often a requirement and can influence job eligibility and salary potential.
- Unionized positions may offer more predictable wage scales and better benefits, especially in public healthcare institutions.
- Specialized roles such as clinical pharmacists, pharmacologists, or research pharmacists can earn higher salaries and enjoy greater job security.
Understanding the Average Pharmacist Salary Montreal
Pharmacist Salary Montreal is between CAD $43 to $55 per hour, which translates to an annual income between $90,000 and $115,000 based on a full-time workweek. However, several factors contribute to where a pharmacist lands within that range.
Salary by Experience
- Entry-Level (0–2 years): CAD $80,000 – $90,000
- Mid-Level (3–5 years): CAD $90,000 – $105,000
- Experienced (6–10 years): CAD $105,000 – $115,000
- Senior-Level (10+ years): Up to CAD $125,000+
These figures may vary slightly depending on the type of pharmacy (retail vs. hospital), location within Montreal, and employer.
Top 12 Pharmacist Jobs and Pharmacist Salary Montreal quick overview and apply now
| S.No. | Job Title | Brief Description | Apply Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Retail Pharmacist – Jean Coutu | Dispense prescription medications, counsel patients on usage and side effects, and manage inventory. | Apply Now |
| 2 | Hospital Pharmacist – Montreal General Hospital | Work with doctors and nurses to ensure proper medication for inpatients and maintain accurate records. | Apply Now |
| 3 | Clinical Pharmacist – McGill University Health Centre | Provide clinical support, evaluate therapy plans, and monitor drug effectiveness for complex conditions. | Apply Now |
| 4 | Pharmacy Manager – Pharmaprix (Shoppers Drug Mart) | Oversee daily pharmacy operations, lead staff, and ensure compliance with health regulations. | Apply Now |
| 5 | Long-Term Care Pharmacist – Medisystem Pharmacy | Deliver pharmacy services for senior care facilities, including medication reviews and consultations. | Apply Now |
| 6 | Compounding Pharmacist – CAPS Pharmacy | Specialize in creating custom medication formulations based on patient-specific prescriptions. | Apply Now |
| 7 | Industrial Pharmacist – Pfizer Canada | Develop and test pharmaceutical products, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. | Apply Now |
| 8 | Research Pharmacist – Montreal Neurological Institute | Conduct research in pharmacology, clinical trials, and drug development projects. | Apply Now |
| 9 | Oncology Pharmacist – Jewish General Hospital | Provide specialized medication therapy for cancer patients and collaborate with oncology teams. | Apply Now |
| 10 | Informatics Pharmacist – Montreal Children’s Hospital | Support electronic prescribing systems and ensure safe use of clinical software. | Apply Now |
| 11 | Pharmacovigilance Specialist – Novartis Canada | Monitor and evaluate adverse drug reactions and ensure compliance with drug safety regulations. | Apply Now |
| 12 | Academic Pharmacist – Université de Montréal | Teach pharmacy students, develop curriculum, and engage in pharmaceutical research. | Apply Now |
Factors Influencing Pharmacist Salaries in Montreal
Pharmacist Salary Montreal aren’t uniform. They depend on a combination of personal qualifications, job location, sector, and more.
1. Type of Employer
Pharmacists employed by hospitals or government institutions usually enjoy more stable wages and robust benefits compared to those working in chain drugstores or independent pharmacies.
- Hospital Pharmacists: CAD $95,000 – $120,000
- Retail Pharmacists: CAD $85,000 – $105,000
- Clinical Pharmacists: CAD $100,000 – $125,000
- Research/Industry Pharmacists: CAD $110,000+
2. Certification and Education
A bachelor’s degree in pharmacy is the minimum requirement, but a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or additional certifications like Board Certification in Pharmacotherapy (BCPS) can significantly improve your earning potential.
3. Location Within Montreal
Pharmacist wages can vary depending on the borough:
- Downtown / Ville-Marie: Higher demand, higher cost of living, slightly elevated wages
- Laval / West Island: Competitive wages with a balance between urban and suburban life
- South Shore / Longueuil: More suburban with moderately lower salaries
4. Language Proficiency
Pharmacist Salary Montreal and Montreal is officially French speaking. Pharmacists must typically be fluently bilingual, and those who speak both French and English often have access to a wider range of roles and better salaries.
Typical Work Settings for Pharmacists in Montreal
Pharmacists work in various settings across the city, each offering distinct advantages and salary ranges.
1. Community Pharmacies
These include large chains like Jean Coutu, Pharmaprix (Shoppers Drug Mart), Uniprix, and Brunet, as well as smaller independent pharmacies.
- Average salary: CAD $85,000 – $105,000
- Workload: High volume of patients, long hours, often evening and weekend shifts
2. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
Institutions like Montreal General Hospital, Jewish General Hospital, and CHUM offer structured environments and steady hours.
- Average salary: CAD $100,000 – $120,000
- Perks: Strong union support, excellent health benefits, continuing education opportunities
3. Research and Academia
Pharmacists working with universities like McGill or Université de Montréal may engage in teaching or pharmaceutical research.
- Average salary: CAD $95,000 – $125,000
- Requirements: Advanced degrees, research background, publications
4. Pharmaceutical Companies
Roles in regulatory affairs, drug development, or medical science liaison work are available through companies like Pfizer, Sandoz, and AbbVie.
- Average salary: CAD $110,000 – $130,000
- Perks: Higher salaries, performance bonuses, remote work flexibility
Benefits and Compensation Beyond Salary
In Montreal, many pharmacists enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. This often includes:
- Health and dental insurance
- Pension plans (especially in public sector jobs)
- Paid vacation (3–5 weeks depending on seniority)
- Paid sick leave
- Continuing education reimbursement
- Maternity/paternity leave
For unionized roles, benefits are clearly outlined in collective agreements and typically offer greater security than private-sector jobs.
Job Outlook for Pharmacists in Montreal
According to data from Emploi Québec and Job Bank Canada, the pharmacist profession is projected to remain stable and in demand over the next 5–10 years in Montreal.
- Retirement of baby boomers is opening up positions.
- Population aging increases the demand for prescription medications and healthcare services.
- Technological innovations such as AI and automation may change the role of pharmacists, but not eliminate it.
Though pharmacy schools in Quebec are producing a steady flow of graduates, the licensing process and internship requirements ensure quality control and maintain a balanced supply of professionals.
Licensing and Registration Requirements
To work as a pharmacist in Montreal, you must:
- Graduate from a recognized pharmacy program (e.g., Université de Montréal or Université Laval).
- Complete the internship supervised by Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec (OPQ).
- Pass the provincial licensing exam.
- Maintain good standing through continuing education and professional development.
International graduates must undergo a bridging program and evaluation by the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC).
Challenges Faced by Pharmacists in Montreal
Despite good salaries and job security, the profession is not without its challenges.
- Burnout and long hours, particularly in retail settings
- Workload intensification due to the growing number of prescriptions
- Pressure from corporate employers to meet sales targets
- Navigating bilingual communication with patients
- Keeping up with continuous professional development
However, many pharmacists manage these challenges through union support, career advancement, and improved work-life balance in hospital or government positions.
Tips to Maximize Earnings as a Pharmacist in Montreal
- Pursue additional certifications (e.g., pharmacogenomics, diabetes management)
- Move into specialized or clinical roles
- Explore opportunities in pharma or biotech industries
- Apply for unionized hospital roles
- Leverage bilingual skills in job applications
Conclusion
Montreal offers a rich landscape for pharmacists, both financially and professionally. While salaries are competitive with other Canadian cities, the true value comes from a combination of compensation, work-life balance, and long-term job security. Whether you’re drawn to research, retail, hospital work, or something in between, there’s a pathway to success in this dynamic city.
If you’re bilingual, well-qualified, and passionate about healthcare, Montreal is an excellent place to build or expand your pharmacy career.
FAQs
What is the average salary of a pharmacist in Montreal?
The average annual salary for a pharmacist in Montreal ranges between CAD $90,000 and $115,000, depending on experience and work setting.
Do pharmacists in Montreal need to speak French?
Yes, fluency in French is generally required. Bilingual proficiency in French and English significantly improves job prospects and salary.
Which type of pharmacist earns the highest salary in Montreal?
Pharmacists working in clinical, research, or pharmaceutical industry roles tend to earn higher salaries, often exceeding CAD $120,000.
Is pharmacy a good career in Montreal?
Yes. With steady demand, strong union support, and good benefits, pharmacy remains a respected and financially rewarding profession in the city.
How do I become a licensed pharmacist in Montreal?
You must graduate from an accredited pharmacy school, complete an internship, and pass the licensing exams through the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec (OPQ).