Advance Your Pharmacy Career at the Tampa VA Healthcare System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to the men and women who have defended our nation. We are currently seeking an experienced and motivated Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (CPS) to join our dynamic team in Tampa, Florida. This role is designed for pharmacists who are ready to step beyond traditional dispensing duties and take on a high-level, clinical provider role.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, you will work at the top of your license. Your primary duties will include:
- Clinical Management: Designing, implementing, and monitoring therapeutic drug plans.
- Provider Functions: Ordering and interpreting laboratory tests, performing physical assessments, and modifying medication therapy.
- Collaboration: Working closely with specialty clinics like Cardiology, Neurology, and Gastroenterology.
- Program Leadership: Developing clinical pharmacy protocols and quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Valid, unrestricted pharmacist license.
- A degree from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy.
- U.S. citizenship.
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to pass a mandatory background investigation and drug test.
Comparison Table: Career Growth Expectations
| Feature | Clinical Pharmacist | Clinical Pharmacy Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Practice Scope | Standard | Advanced/Independent |
| Patient Interaction | Indirect/Direct | Highly Direct/Provider |
| Clinical Focus | General | Specialized (e.g., Cardiology) |
| Autonomy | Supervision-based | Independent |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive salary range of $134,196 to $174,457 per year. In addition to standard Federal benefits, we offer the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which can provide up to $200,000 in student loan reimbursement for eligible candidates.
Application Tips
- Use the provided VA resume template to ensure your documentation aligns with federal standards.
- Be specific about your clinical hours and duties in your resume.
- Complete the questionnaire in full before the August 31, 2026 deadline.
If you are a pharmacist dedicated to excellence and patient advocacy, the Tampa VA is the place for you. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our interdisciplinary team.
Why This Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist) Job Matters
Elevate your clinical pharmacy career and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Tampa VA Healthcare System as a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist.
Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (CPS) to join the Tampa VA Healthcare System. In this high-level role, you will operate independently within an advanced scope of practice, providing expert medication therapy management for Veterans across various specialty clinics. This position offers a unique opportunity to work as a mid-level provider, influencing patient outcomes through evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Requirements for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Graduate of an ACPE-accredited School of Pharmacy with a BS or Pharm.D.
- Full, current, and unrestricted pharmacist license in a U.S. state, territory, or DC
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Must be able to fulfill seasonal influenza vaccination requirements
Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist)
- Completion of a PGY-2 residency in a specialty area
- Completion of a PGY-1 residency with a strong emphasis on specialty clinical pharmacy
- Documented experience in specialty care program management
- Demonstrated ability to function independently in clinical environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on total service years
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and research
- ✓Supportive interdisciplinary team environment
💡 How to Apply Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pharmacist (Clinical Specialist) Job
- Log in or create a profile on the official federal hiring portal.
- Review the specific Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, pharmacy license, and any supporting credentials (e.g., transcripts, DD214).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience; avoid leaving room for assumptions.
- Use the specific VA-provided resume template for your primary document to ensure compliance.
- Check your application status regularly via your applicant dashboard.
- Ensure your professional licenses are up to date and verifiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for EDRP student loan reimbursement up to $200,000, subject to VHA policy and application approval.
What is the primary scope of this role?
As a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, you will act as a mid-level provider, independently managing drug therapy, performing physical assessments, and collaborating with specialists in areas like cardiology, neurology, and gastroenterology.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Tampa Healthcare System serves as a cornerstone of the Sunshine Health Care Network. With over 20 locations, including the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, we provide comprehensive, whole-health care. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that prioritizes patient-centered outcomes, medical research, and training the next generation of healthcare professionals.