Elevate Your Career: Become a Clinical Pharmacist with the VA
Are you looking to bridge the gap between advanced pharmaceutical science and direct patient care? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Clinical Pharmacist to join the Pharmacy Service in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. This is a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working in an environment that values innovation, clinical rigor, and professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Pharmacist, your work is the backbone of medication safety and therapeutic efficacy for our Veterans. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Clinical Monitoring: Evaluating medication regimens for appropriateness, potential drug-drug interactions, and therapeutic efficacy.
- Patient Advocacy: Providing clear education to Veterans regarding their medications to ensure adherence and optimal outcomes.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Communicating with healthcare providers to adjust drug therapy based on clinical laboratory data and physical assessments.
- Dispensing and Management: Overseeing the safe dispensing of medications, managing controlled substances, and utilizing modern pharmacy automation (e.g., Omnicell).
- Education and Training: Mentoring pharmacy students, interns, and residents to foster the next generation of pharmacy talent.
Requirements
To be considered for this vital position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Must hold a degree from an ACPE-accredited College or School of Pharmacy (BS or Pharm.D.).
- Licensure: Must possess a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia.
- Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory.
- Health Requirements: Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary range. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect:
| Position Level | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Clinical Pharmacist (GS-12) | $115,077 - $149,603 |
Benefits
The VA provides an industry-leading benefits package. Highlights include:
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): You may be eligible for up to $200,000 in student loan repayment.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Excellent federal health insurance, life insurance, and retirement plans.
- Leave Policies: Robust annual and sick leave accrual based on your service years.
Application Tips
The federal application process can be rigorous. To increase your chances:
- Tailor Your Resume: Use your resume to describe your pharmacy experience in detail. Include the number of hours worked per week for each position.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your transcript shows the conferral date and keep a copy of your license accessible.
- Use the Questionnaire: Answer every question in the online assessment honestly and accurately; it is a primary tool for initial screening.
Serving as a Clinical Pharmacist with the VA in Wilkes-Barre is more than just a job; it is a chance to apply your expertise where it matters most. With excellent benefits, EDRP incentives, and a noble mission, this role offers a fulfilling career path. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal and take the first step toward joining our elite clinical team.
Why This Clinical Pharmacist Job Matters
Transform lives by ensuring optimal medication therapy for those who served our nation. Join the VA’s elite clinical team in Wilkes-Barre.
Clinical Pharmacist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Clinical Pharmacist to join our Pharmacy Service in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. This role is pivotal in providing high-quality, comprehensive pharmaceutical care to Veterans. You will work within an integrated healthcare environment, ensuring safety, efficacy, and clinical excellence in drug therapy management. This position offers the rare opportunity to combine advanced clinical practice with a mission-driven career that honors the sacrifice of our military heroes.
Requirements for Clinical Pharmacist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Full, current, and unrestricted pharmacist license in a U.S. State, Territory, or 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
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Must be able to maintain required vaccinations, including seasonal influenza
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Pharmacist
- Completion of an ASHP-accredited pharmacy residency program
- Documented specialized experience in clinical pharmaceutical practice
- Proficiency in clinical pharmacy automation systems such as Omnicell or carousel technology
- Strong communication skills for patient education and interdisciplinary healthcare coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000)
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- âś“Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- âś“Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system
- âś“Access to state-of-the-art clinical pharmacy facilities and technology
đź’ˇ How to Apply Clinical Pharmacist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Pharmacist Job
- Create or log in to your account at the USAJOBS portal
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume or CV
- Gather necessary documentation, including professional licenses and academic transcripts
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required supporting documents before the closing date
- Submit your application and monitor your email for status notifications
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific and thorough in your resume; do not assume the recruiter knows your day-to-day duties
- Ensure your transcript clearly shows the date your degree was conferred
- Quantify your experience—include the number of hours worked per week for all positions
- If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 and any relevant SF-15 documentation
- Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) available for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for the EDRP, which may provide student loan reimbursement up to $200,000 for qualifying candidates.
Are there remote or telework options?
No, this is an on-site clinical position. Daily interaction with patients and clinical staff in a hospital/clinic setting is required.
What kind of experience is required for the GS-12 level?
You need an ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. degree OR at least one year of specialized experience comparable to the next lower grade level.
Can I apply if my degree is from a foreign country?
Yes, provided you have Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Commission (FPGEC) certification and meet the English proficiency standards.
Is there a trial period?
Yes, new hires are required to complete a one- or two-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the nation. Our mission is clear: to fulfill the promise made by President Lincoln—to care for those who have borne the battle. At the VA, we live by our "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining our team means joining a culture that prioritizes patient-centered care and provides unmatched opportunities for clinical advancement.