Pharmacist (Clinical)
Job Description
Department of Health and Human Services
Indian Health Service
Western Region Human Resources, Portland Area Office (PAO), various service units under PAO
Summary
This position provides high-quality pharmacy services to patients and their families as an integral member of the Pharmacy Department, reporting directly to the Pharmacy Supervisor.
Applications are accepted year-round. Eligible candidates will be placed on a continuous register and referred for consideration as vacancies arise at various grade levels, locations, and appointment types.
Who May Apply
- The Public: Open to all U.S. Citizens, Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
- Native Americans: Preference is given by law to qualified Native American applicants, as defined in the Indian Health Manual Part 7, Chapter 3.
Major Duties
- Accurately interpret and dispense prescriptions, ensuring appropriate labeling and patient instructions.
- Provide patient-focused care for chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and hypertension.
- Advise patients and healthcare providers on medication therapy, interactions, side effects, dosage, and storage.
- Maintain comprehensive pharmacy records, including patient files, inventory, and controlled substance logs.
- Perform administrative and consultative duties to support and improve the pharmacy program.
Key Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Subject to a pre-employment medical exam and background investigation (including fingerprinting and possible credit check).
- Must register for Selective Service if male and born after 12/31/1959.
- Must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy (including measles, rubella, COVID-19, and seasonal flu) or submit an approved exemption.
- Must hold and maintain active pharmacy licensure; loss of licensure may lead to removal from federal service.
- Must pass E-Verify employment verification and set up direct deposit for pay.
Qualifications
Education:
A doctoral degree in Pharmacy (Pharm.D. or Ph.D.) accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) or recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Licensure:
Must be licensed to practice pharmacy in a U.S. state, territory, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
Experience:
Must demonstrate professional pharmacy experience, including knowledge of medications’ clinical effects and safe handling. Experience may include:
- Dispensing medications and counseling patients.
- Evaluating medication use and outcomes.
- Performing administrative or advisory functions within a pharmacy program.
- Planning, monitoring, and evaluating medication regimens.
- Conducting research and maintaining compliance with all required medication records.
Grade Levels:
- GS-11: Completion of doctoral degree meets basic requirements.
- GS-12: Requires at least one year of professional pharmacy experience at the GS-11 level.
- Selective Factor (GS-12): Must have Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) certification, an equivalent accredited board certification, or have completed an ASHP or APHA residency.
Note: GS-11 pharmacists must obtain BPS certification within a specified time frame to progress to GS-12.
Additional Information
- Position may require distinguishing basic colors.
- Promotion potential up to GS-12; promotion is not guaranteed.
- Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available with a service agreement.
- Eligible for federal student loan repayment programs (IHS, NHSC, HRSA).
How to Apply
Apply online through USAJOBS. Be sure to:
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire: View Questionnaire
- Submit a complete application package, including your resume, transcripts, license, and any required preference forms (e.g., Indian Preference Form BIA-4432, Veterans’ documents).
- Applications will be retained for up to 8 months. After this time, you must reapply to remain eligible.
