Lead Pharmacy Operations for Veterans: Join the VA Today
Are you a visionary pharmacy leader looking to transition into high-level federal administration? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center is currently seeking a highly motivated Licensed Pharmacist (Associate Service Chief) - Operations. This is a prestigious leadership position that requires a balance of operational excellence, strategic oversight, and a deep commitment to serving our nation's veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As the Associate Chief of Pharmacy, you will co-manage the daily operations of the department. Your primary scope includes:
- Administrative Oversight: Coordinating pharmacy programs and representing the department on various national and VISN-level committees.
- Personnel Management: Directly supervising Inpatient and Outpatient Pharmacy Supervisors, procurement managers, and informatics staff.
- Budgeting & Resources: Managing pharmacy budget activities and ensuring the effective utilization of resources.
- Program Development: Implementing internal reviews to maintain compliance with federal, VA, and regulatory standards.
Requirements
To be eligible for this GS-14 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Education: Must hold a degree from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy.
- Licensure: A current, unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in a U.S. state or territory is mandatory.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level demonstrating leadership, program management, and staff supervision.
Comparison of Potential Candidates
| Feature | Candidate A | Candidate B |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy Degree | Required | Required |
| Management Exp. | 5+ Years | 1 Year |
| PGY-2 Residency | Completed | Not Required |
| Ideal Fit | High | Medium |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package aligned with federal pay scales. The salary range is $169,217 to $219,988 per year, reflecting the seniority and level of responsibility required for this role.
Benefits of Federal Employment
Beyond the salary, the VA offers an extensive benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security, including:
- Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Ongoing professional training and certification support.
This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to lead a department that directly impacts the health and wellness of our veterans. If you possess the leadership skills and the pharmacy background to excel in this environment, we encourage you to apply by October 21, 2026.
Note: All applicants are subject to pre-employment screenings, including physicals and background investigations.
Why This Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations Job Matters
Take your pharmacy leadership career to the next level by serving our nation's heroes as the Associate Service Chief at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center.
Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Licensed Pharmacist to join our leadership team in North Chicago. In this pivotal Associate Service Chief role, you will help oversee pharmacy operations, manage diverse pharmacy programs, and ensure the delivery of high-quality pharmaceutical care to those who have served. This is an exceptional opportunity for a pharmacy professional with strong administrative and supervisory expertise to make a lasting impact within the VA Great Lakes Health Care System.
Requirements for Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, full, and unrestricted pharmacy license in a U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Degree from an ACPE-accredited Pharmacy school (BS or Pharm.D.) or FPGEC certification for foreign graduates
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Minimum 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
- Completion of a 1-2 year trial period
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable)
Preferred Qualifications for Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations
- Completion of a PGY-2 Health Systems Pharmacy Administration and Leadership Residency
- Extensive prior management experience in a hospital or clinical setting
- Proven track record of managing multi-disciplinary teams and pharmacy budgets
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and annual raises
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Generous paid leave (annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- ✓Federal retirement savings (TSP) with agency matching
- ✓Flexible career advancement opportunities within the VA system
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous training
💡 How to Apply Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Licensed Pharmacist(Associate Service Chief) - Operations Job
- Create or update your account on USAJOBS.gov.
- Prepare your resume, pharmacy license, and academic transcripts.
- Complete the online job questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all required documentation, including proof of licensure and education.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 21, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the 'Full Length Resume' field to upload your detailed CV.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your leadership experience, such as supervising staff and managing budgets.
- Do not group your professional experiences; list each position individually with specific accomplishments.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents (transcripts, licenses) are legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located in North Chicago, Illinois. It is not a virtual or remote role.
What is the primary role of the Associate Service Chief?
You will serve as a co-manager of the Pharmacy Department, focusing on operational administration, personnel supervision, and resource management, excluding direct clinical pharmacy service roles.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Great Lakes Health Care System is one of the nation's most comprehensive integrated health systems. We are dedicated to providing excellence in health care, value, and service to those who have served. By joining our team, you become part of a mission-driven organization that values innovation, accountability, and the continuous improvement of the patient care experience.