Lead Pharmacy Excellence: Compounded Sterile Preparation Program Manager
Are you a clinical pharmacy expert looking to make a significant impact on Veteran healthcare? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently searching for a high-performing Pharmacist to serve as the Compounded Sterile Preparation (CSP) and Medication Safety Program Manager. This is a premier opportunity to work within one of the nation's most complex and respected healthcare systems.
Job Responsibilities
The Program Manager serves as the primary subject matter expert regarding sterile preparation and hazardous drug management. Key duties include:
- Compliance Leadership: Ensuring absolute adherence to USP 795, USP 797, and USP 800 standards.
- Operational Oversight: Managing the daily activities of professional and technical pharmacy staff within the CSP arena.
- Quality Management: Developing quality assurance plans, monitoring medication errors, and performing surveillance through systems like the VA ADERS program.
- Safety Advocacy: Participating as a lead representative on the patient safety committee to conduct root cause analyses and process improvements.
Comparison of Pharmacist Roles
| Feature | Clinical Staff Pharmacist | Pharmacy Program Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Direct Patient Care | Program Oversight & Safety |
| Regulatory Scope | Daily dispensing/verification | USP 795, 797, 800 compliance |
| Leadership | Team member | Lead/Supervisor |
| Quality Focus | Individual patient outcomes | System-wide performance improvements |
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must possess a degree from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy and hold a full, current, and unrestricted license. You must demonstrate advanced knowledge of professional pharmacy practice and the ability to interpret diagnostic laboratory parameters. As this is a Federal appointment, you must also be a U.S. Citizen and meet all security and pre-employment physical requirements.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,662 to $186,762 per year, commensurate with qualifications. In addition to a generous salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including retirement programs, premium health insurance, and paid time off.
Application Tips
- Use the provided Clinical Resume template—it is non-negotiable.
- Be explicit about your experience with USP standards in your narrative sections.
- Clearly articulate your experience leading teams.
If you have the clinical expertise and a passion for patient safety, this role offers the perfect platform to influence pharmacy practice at the highest level. Apply today to serve our Veterans in Seattle.
Why This Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager Job Matters
Join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System as a Pharmacy Program Manager and lead critical medication safety initiatives for those who served our nation.
Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Compounded Sterile Preparation (CSP) and Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager to join our Seattle division. In this vital leadership role, you will oversee sterile compounding compliance, manage hazardous medication programs, and drive quality improvement across one of the most complex healthcare environments in the country. This is a unique opportunity to shape patient safety protocols and lead interdisciplinary teams in a prestigious academic and research-oriented setting.
Requirements for Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- Graduate of an ACPE-accredited School of Pharmacy (BS or Pharm.D.)
- Full, current, and unrestricted pharmacist license in a U.S. State or Territory
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager
- Extensive experience managing CSP and hazardous medication safety in a large, complex healthcare setting (Level 1a facility preferred)
- Demonstrated expertise in USP 795, 797, and 800 standards
- Proven experience leading interdisciplinary teams and implementing quality assurance initiatives
- Background in pharmacy operations and subject matter expertise in academic or VA healthcare environments
- Experience in contributing to patient safety research or clinical projects
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Generous leave policies (annual and sick leave accrual)
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts
💡 How to Apply Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Compounded Sterile Preparation And Medication Safety Pharmacy Program Manager Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJobs.gov
- Prepare your license, resume, and relevant transcripts
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers portal
- Complete the occupational questionnaire linked in the announcement
- Upload all required supporting documents, including SF-50s or DD-214 if applicable
- Submit your final application package before the deadline
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided, as it is a required document
- Clearly document your experience with USP standards to highlight your expertise
- Double-check that all supporting documents are readable and uploaded to the correct sections
- Submit well before the closing date to avoid technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the Seattle division of the VA Puget Sound Health Care System.
What is the primary focus of this role?
The primary focus is managing compounded sterile preparation compliance (USP 795, 797, 800), medication safety surveillance, and leading quality improvement initiatives.
Are relocation incentives available?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System (VAPSHCS) is a Level 1a academic teaching facility serving a vast population of Veterans. As part of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the organization is committed to the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working here means joining a collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to providing holistic care for those who have served our nation.