Lead the Future of Veteran Pharmacy Care: Associate Service Chief Opportunity

Are you a seasoned pharmacist looking to transition from clinical practice into a high-impact leadership role? The Aleda E. Lutz Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan, is currently accepting applications for an Associate Service Chief, Pharmacy. This role is designed for leaders who are ready to balance clinical expertise with administrative stewardship, ensuring that our Veterans receive the gold standard of pharmaceutical care.

Job Responsibilities

The Associate Service Chief acts as a critical link in the pharmacy management chain. Key responsibilities include:

Leadership and Planning: Directing pharmacy programs across both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Operational Oversight: Managing personnel, resources, and pharmacy budgets effectively.
Compliance: Developing internal systems to ensure adherence to regulatory and accrediting standards.
Mentorship: Serving as a mentor to staff and coordinating educational training for pharmacy residents.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-14 position, candidates must meet the following baseline federal requirements:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizen.
Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted pharmacy license.
Education: A degree from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy.
Proficiency: Fluent in written and spoken English.
Compliance: Ability to pass a security background check and pre-employment physical.

Grade Comparison

Position Level	Responsibilities	Focus Area
Clinical Pharmacist	Patient care & clinical outcomes	Direct Patient Interaction
Associate Service Chief	Program management & budget	Administrative & Clinical Strategy
Chief of Pharmacy	Executive strategy & overall facility ops	Institutional Oversight

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $151,606 to $197,094 per year, commensurate with experience and grade level requirements.

Benefits

Generous paid time off.
Flexible scheduling opportunities.
Federal health benefits and retirement planning.
A supportive, mission-driven professional community.

Application Tips

Use the Template: The VA requires a specific clinical resume format. Use the document provided in the announcement to avoid being disqualified for formatting errors.
Be Detailed: Federal hiring managers cannot assume experience. Explicitly state how your previous roles align with the KSA requirements listed.
Verify Dates: Ensure all your documents are submitted by the July 13, 2026, deadline.

If you are ready to take your pharmacy career to the next level while serving our nation’s heroes, apply today. The Saginaw team is looking for a leader who values integrity and professional growth. Your journey toward a fulfilling federal career begins at the link provided below.

Why This Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief Job Matters

Advance your career in clinical leadership at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center, where your expertise directly transforms the lives of our nation's Veterans.

Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief Job Overview

The Aleda E. Lutz Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center is seeking a dedicated and experienced Pharmacist to serve as the Associate Service Chief. This leadership role is pivotal in orchestrating comprehensive pharmacy services, managing budgetary resources, and fostering a culture of excellence in clinical care. If you are a visionary pharmacist with a passion for administrative independence, team mentorship, and high-level clinical strategy, we invite you to help us honor those who have served.

Requirements for Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief

United States Citizenship
Full, current, and unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
Graduate of an ACPE-accredited College or School of Pharmacy with a BS or Pharm.D. degree
Proficiency in spoken and written English
Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Subject to background investigation and drug testing
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959

Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief

Completion of a PGY-1 Pharmacy Residency
2-3 years of proven management or supervisory experience
Demonstrated ability in leading complex clinical pharmacy programs
Strong skills in personnel management, budgetary control, and regulatory compliance

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Generous paid time off
✓Predictable and flexible scheduling
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Contribution to a mission-driven, rewarding work environment

💡 How to Apply Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Pharmacist, Associate Service Chief Job

Log in or create an account on USAJOBS
Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA
Prepare your full CV and supporting credentials including license and transcripts
Complete the online occupational questionnaire
Submit your application package before the closing date of July 13, 2026

💡 General Tips

Be specific and thorough when describing your experience in your resume.
Ensure you use the provided clinical resume template to avoid processing delays.
Double-check that all required documents, including SF-50s and licenses, are attached before submission.
Monitor your email for status updates following the close of the announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this Associate Service Chief role?

The incumbent assists the Chief of Pharmacy in planning, directing, and coordinating complex pharmacy operations, managing personnel, and ensuring high-quality clinical outcomes across the medical center.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Telework options are available, though this is not a virtual position and requires presence at the facility.

What if I have an existing pharmacy license in a U.S. territory?

Full, current, and unrestricted licenses from any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia are accepted.

Is relocation pay included?

No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.

Do I need a clinical residency?

A PGY-1 residency is a preferred qualification, though not strictly required if other equivalent clinical management experience is present.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working within the VA is more than just a job; it is a meaningful contribution to the lives of those who have sacrificed for our country. Our culture is defined by our I CARE values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.