Pharmacy Buyer

Weiss Memorial Hospital has been a trusted provider of healthcare in Chicago for over 60 years, offering a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of the community. We are looking for an experienced Pharmacy Buyer to join our team and support the efficient and cost-effective management of pharmaceuticals.

Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the Pharmacy Director, Manager, and/or Pharmacist, the Pharmacy Buyer will handle a variety of purchasing and inventory control responsibilities. This includes monitoring and documenting the usage of high-cost medications, tracking and managing supply inventories, processing returns, and maintaining financial and clinical data tracking.

Key Responsibilities:

• Purchasing & Requisitions: Order pharmaceuticals and solutions by preparing and submitting requisitions. Use electronic systems or telephone to contact requesting departments for details.
• Inventory Management: Ensure par level inventory quantities are maintained. Coordinate with other pharmacies for lending and borrowing of critical pharmaceuticals.
• Data Maintenance & Reporting: Maintain purchasing records for financial tracking and assist with monthly summary and analysis of medication purchases by therapeutic category.
• Vendor Communication: Contact vendors for delivery dates and relevant data. Suggest cost-effective shipment methods and alternatives considering price and delivery requirements.
• Returns & Recalls: Inspect inventory for expired or recalled medications and process returns for credit. Handle inquiries related to receiving and accounts payable.
• Documentation & Clerical Support: Organize purchasing files, maintain contract files, and prepare reports and correspondence. Assist with departmental requisition systems.
• Drug Distribution Support: Participate in the distribution process by receiving, unpacking, checking, and storing shipments of pharmaceuticals. Notify appropriate personnel of price changes, back-orders, or other issues.
• Problem-Solving: Address inventory supply issues and identify alternative suppliers.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Previous experience as a pharmacy technician, especially with knowledge of brand and generic drug names.
• Licensure: Current Illinois Pharmacy Technician License required.

Key Skills & Abilities:

• Strong Organizational Skills: Ability to maintain detailed records, track inventory, and ensure accuracy in purchasing data.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise with vendors and department heads.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve inventory and supply issues effectively.
• Attention to Detail: Thorough attention to detail in handling pharmaceuticals, documentation, and vendor data.

Working Environment:

• Typical office environment with minimal exposure to dust or extreme temperatures.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Weiss Memorial Hospital provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type.