Advance Your Career: Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (Hematology/Oncology) at the VA

Are you a dedicated pharmacist looking to pivot your career toward a specialized, high-impact clinical role? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in East Orange, New Jersey, is currently seeking a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (CPS) to lead medication management initiatives within their Hematology/Oncology department. This is a unique opportunity to practice at the pinnacle of your profession while serving those who have bravely served our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, you will act as a consultant and independent practitioner. Your daily impact will include:

Therapeutic Management: Designing, implementing, and monitoring therapeutic dosing regimens for hematology and oncology patients.
Chemotherapy Monitoring: Overseeing clinical pharmacy chemotherapy programs, including lab order entry and dose titration.
Patient Assessments: Evaluating patients on parenteral and enteral nutrition and providing evidence-based recommendations.
Expert Consultation: Serving as the primary pharmacy expert for the Hematology/Oncology team.
Documentation: Maintaining precise records in the electronic medical record system to ensure safety and continuity of care.

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Education: A baccalaureate degree or Pharm.D. from an ACPE-accredited school.
Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license to practice pharmacy.
Experience: One year of professional experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
Compliance: Ability to pass a background check, physical examination, and drug screening.

Qualifications Comparison Table

Feature	Requirement	Preferred
Education	Pharm.D. / BS Pharmacy	Pharm.D.
Residency	Not strictly mandatory	PGY2 Hematology/Oncology
Certification	State License	BCOP Certification
Experience	Equivalent to GS-12	Extensive Clinical Oncology Background

Salary Overview

The position offers a highly competitive salary range of $138,579 to $180,155 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

VA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package:

Health & Life Insurance: Robust coverage options for you and your family.
Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid leave, including federal holidays.
Clinical Support: Access to ongoing training and a collaborative, multidisciplinary medical team.

Application Tips

Use the Template: Use the standard VA Clinical Resume document to ensure your application passes the initial screening filters.
Highlight Experience: Clearly document your involvement in oncology/hematology clinical settings.
Be Thorough: Provide all required supporting documentation (licenses, transcripts, etc.) at the initial submission to avoid delays.

This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide specialized pharmaceutical care in an environment that prioritizes excellence and service. If you are an experienced pharmacist ready to transition into a specialized clinical role, apply today and join our mission at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Why This Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology) Job Matters

Transform lives in Oncology: Join the VA as a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist and deliver life-changing care to our nation's heroes in East Orange.

Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology) Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (Hematology/Oncology) to join our esteemed team in East Orange, New Jersey. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served, working within a large, collaborative tertiary care medical center. You will function as an expert practitioner, directly influencing patient outcomes through clinical consultation, research, and specialized medication management in the Oncology and Hematology setting.

Requirements for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology)

U.S. Citizenship
Graduate of an ACPE-accredited School of Pharmacy (BS or Pharm.D.)
Full, current, and unrestricted pharmacist license in any U.S. State or Territory
English language proficiency (written and spoken)
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and security investigation
Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or approved exemption
Must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period

Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology)

Completion of a PGY2 Hematology/Oncology Residency
Significant Hematology/Oncology experience (if no residency completed)
BCOP certification
Demonstrated ability to function independently in a multidisciplinary clinical team
Experience as a PGY2 Hematology/Oncology preceptor

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance plans
✓Comprehensive life insurance options
✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
✓Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
✓Professional development and clinical growth opportunities
✓Participation in innovative research and teaching programs

💡 How to Apply Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist Hematology/Oncology) Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Download and prepare the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers portal.
Gather your transcript, proof of licensure, and any relevant veteran preference documentation (e.g., DD-214).
Complete the required online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is tailored to reflect your Hematology/Oncology clinical expertise specifically.
Be detailed; the review board cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid formatting issues.
Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Verify that your license is currently valid and unencumbered before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position open to the public?

Yes, this announcement is open to both internal agency employees and the general public.

What is the primary work location for this role?

The position is based in East Orange, New Jersey, though pharmacists may occasionally be required to support other pharmacy locations in the state, such as Lyons or the Toms River Outpatient Clinic.

Are there residency requirements for this specialty?

While PGY2 residency is preferred, candidates with extensive experience in Hematology/Oncology without formal residency training may be considered.

Is this a remote role?

*A: No, this position is onsite at the East Orange, NJ, facility.*

Can I apply without a PGY2 residency?

*A: Yes, if you possess significant clinical experience in Hematology/Oncology, you are still eligible for consideration.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care for millions of Veterans, the VHA is committed to a "whole health" approach. By joining the East Orange facility, you become part of a network that values clinical research, education, and patient-centered care. The site is affiliated with major academic institutions, including Rutgers College of Pharmacy, offering a stimulating environment for professional growth and interdisciplinary collaboration.