Job Summary :The Pharmacy Buyer is responsible for the procurement, inventory control, and cost management of pharmaceuticals and related supplies for the hospital pharmacy. This position ensures the availability of safe, effective, and cost-efficient medications in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and regulatory requirements. The Pharmacy Buyer collaborates with pharmacists, technicians, nursing, and finance departments to maintain optimal inventory levels and support patient care across the hospital.
- Required Qualifications :
Education :
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Associate's degree or coursework in business, supply chain, or pharmacy technology preferred.
- Experience :
- Minimum of 2 years of hospital pharmacy experience required.
- Prior experience as a pharmacy buyer or inventory specialist in an acute care setting strongly preferred.
- Experience with pharmacy information systems (e.g., Pyxis, Omnicell, EPIC, and Meditech) and purchasing software (e.g., Cardinal, McKesson, and Cencora) preferred.
- Licensure / Certification :
- Florida Pharmacy Technician Licensure required based on hospital policy.
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) preferred.
- Essential Job Functions :
Purchase pharmaceuticals, biologicals, and supplies from approved vendors in accordance with hospital purchasing policies and group purchasing organization (GPO) contracts.
- Maintain appropriate stock levels to meet patient care needs while minimizing waste and expiration.
- Monitor inventory levels and perform routine cycle counts and reconciliations.
- Ensure timely receipt, verification, and storage of all medications according to manufacturer and regulatory standards.
- Process returns, recalls, and credits in collaboration with vendors and wholesalers.
- Evaluate purchasing trends to identify cost-saving opportunities and formulary standardization.
- Track and report on purchasing budgets, cost variances, and savings initiatives.
- Ensure compliance with all DEA, FDA, Board of Pharmacy, and Joint Commission standards related to medication purchasing and storage.
- Maintain appropriate documentation for controlled substances ordering and receipt.
- Serve as the primary contact for wholesalers, manufacturers, and distributors.
- Resolve issues related to backorders, shortages, and product substitutions.
- Work with pharmacy leadership to optimize vendor contracts and purchasing programs.
- Assist with implementation of new drug products and discontinuations in collaboration with the Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) Committee.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and process improvement initiatives.
- Train and assist pharmacy staff in inventory procedures and purchasing system use.
- Knowledge / Skills / Abilities :
Strong understanding of drug purchasing, inventory management, and GPO processes.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and inventory management systems.
- Demonstrated commitment to accuracy, compliance, and cost-effective operations.
- Working Conditions / Schedule :
- Typical hospital environment with exposure to medications and supplies.
- May require occasional lifting (up to 30 lbs.) and standing for extended periods.
- Monday-Friday schedule; occasional weekends or holidays as departmental needs require.