Pediatric Pharmacist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the healthcare sector, the role of pediatric pharmacists has become increasingly crucial.

As medical advancements continue to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can manage, optimize, and ensure the safety of pediatric pharmaceutical care grows stronger.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a pediatric pharmacist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of pediatric pharmacy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable pediatric pharmacist job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive into it.

Pediatric Pharmacist Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Pharmacists specialize in the safe and effective use of medications in children.

They apply their extensive knowledge of medications and therapies to advise healthcare providers and caregivers on the best medication choices for pediatric patients.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Review and interpret physician orders to ensure appropriate medication is dispensed
• Provide medication therapy management and patient counseling
• Work with healthcare providers to develop medication plans that are suitable for children’s specific needs
• Monitor and report drug effects and adverse reactions in pediatric patients
• Participate in patient rounds with other healthcare professionals to recommend appropriate medication therapy
• Assist in the procurement, inventory management, and safe storage of pediatric medications
• Educate patients, parents, and caregivers about medication use, side effects, and interactions
• Keep up to date with the latest pediatric medication guidelines and clinical studies
• Ensure compliance with pharmacy regulations and pediatric-specific legal guidelines

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Pediatric Pharmacist to join our healthcare team.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing medication therapy for pediatric patients, providing accurate drug information, and ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.

Our ideal candidate is exceptionally detail-oriented and able to manage complex medication regimens.

Familiarity with pediatric-specific medication therapy, drug interactions, and side effects is crucial for this position.

 

Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate physicians’ orders for medication therapy for appropriateness and accuracy
• Prepare and dispense medications as prescribed by physicians
• Monitor patients’ drug therapies, advise interventions, and inform physicians of potential adverse reactions
• Provide drug information and education to parents, patients, and healthcare professionals
• Work closely with other healthcare providers to formulate individualized medication treatment plans
• Adhere to all relevant pharmaceutical and healthcare regulations
• Participate in pediatric patient care rounds and provide medication management expertise
• Provide immunizations and conduct wellness and disease prevention programs

 

Qualifications

• Doctor of Pharmacy degree (Pharm.D.) from an accredited institution
• Valid pharmacist license in the state of practice
• Completion of a Pediatric Pharmacy Residency Program is a plus
• Proficient knowledge of pediatric pharmacotherapy
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical software and the ability to learn new systems
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Pharmacist
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare facility. Some weekend and holiday shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pharmacy Director or Pharmacy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $104,000 minimum to $146,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pediatric Pharmacist Do?

Pediatric Pharmacists are highly specialized healthcare professionals who work primarily with infants, children, and adolescents.

Their main responsibility is to ensure the safe and effective use of medications for their young patients.

This involves providing medication therapy evaluations and recommendations to patients and health care providers, interpreting and evaluating physician orders to provide appropriate, individualized pharmacotherapy.

They also review prescribed drug regimens for contraindications, drug interactions, drug allergies, dosage, route, frequency, and therapeutic duplications.

A significant part of their work includes educating patients, families, and healthcare providers about medications, potential side effects, drug interactions, and the overall management of diseases and conditions.

Pediatric Pharmacists also participate in the development of drug protocols and clinical pathways, considering the unique needs and physiological responses of pediatric patients.

In a hospital setting, they may also be involved in direct patient care, rounding with doctors and other healthcare providers, and providing drug information to ensure optimal drug therapy outcomes.

All of their work is conducted with the ultimate goal of improving the health outcomes and quality of life for their pediatric patients.

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Qualifications and Skills

A Pediatric Pharmacist should have a mix of medical knowledge, attention to detail, and a patient demeanor, including:

• Strong understanding of pharmacological principles, drug interactions, and side effects specific to pediatric patients.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly explain complex medical information to patients, their families, and healthcare providers.
• Attention to detail and precision in preparing and dispensing prescribed medications and healthcare products.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations, such as explaining a medication’s side effects to a child or their parents.
• Interpersonal skills to establish a caring and trusting relationship with patients and their families.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, and ethical considerations related to pediatric pharmacy.
• Aptitude for problem-solving and decision-making, especially in critical situations where immediate action is required.
• Ability to work collaboratively with healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and other pharmacists.

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Experience Requirements

Pediatric Pharmacists typically require a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree as the initial qualification.

This is usually followed by a residency or fellowship in pediatric pharmacy to gain specialized experience.

Those just entering the field may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles in a pharmacy or hospital setting.

These professionals can also gain practical experience by working in various roles such as a Pharmacy Technician, Pharmacy Intern, or Clinical Pharmacist.

Pharmacists with more than 3 years of experience in the field often develop their therapeutic knowledge and patient management skills in entry-level Pediatric Pharmacist roles.

They may also gain specific skills in managing pediatric medication therapy and interpreting pediatric pharmacotherapy literature.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have developed some leadership qualities and could be ready for a supervisory role in pediatric pharmacy practice.

They could have also gained expertise in designing, implementing, and monitoring a therapeutic drug plan that meets the unique physiological needs of children.

Some roles may also require the Pediatric Pharmacist to have a board certification from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties, which further attests to their knowledge and skills in the field.

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Education and Training Requirements

Pediatric Pharmacists must first earn a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program.

This typically requires at least two years of undergraduate study, followed by four academic years in a professional pharmacy program.

As part of their education, Pediatric Pharmacists are trained on various areas including pediatric pharmacotherapy, drug formulation and administration, and the therapeutic management of diseases and conditions common in children.

After obtaining a Pharm.D. degree, Pediatric Pharmacists must become licensed to practice.

This usually involves passing two examinations – the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE).

Furthermore, Pediatric Pharmacists may choose to complete a postgraduate residency program that focuses on pediatric pharmacotherapy.

This typically involves a one to two year commitment and provides hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced pediatric pharmacists.

Additionally, to further specialize in their field, Pediatric Pharmacists can obtain a Pediatric Pharmacy Certification from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties.

This certification not only indicates the pharmacist’s advanced knowledge and experience in pediatric pharmacy but also their commitment to the health of children.

Continuing education is important for Pediatric Pharmacists to stay current with the latest developments in pediatric medications and treatments.

This can be accomplished through seminars, workshops, or additional coursework.

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Pharmacist earns an average salary of $120,000 (USD) per year.

This amount can vary significantly based on factors such as location, years of experience, the complexity of the position, and the organization for which they work.

 

Pediatric Pharmacist Job Description FAQs

What is the difference between a Pediatric Pharmacist and a General Pharmacist?

Pediatric Pharmacists specialize in providing pharmaceutical care to children and adolescents, from newborns to 18 years old.

They are knowledgeable about how drugs affect children differently than adults due to their varying metabolism rates and growth stages.

General Pharmacists, on the other hand, cater to the general population without specific age specialization.

 

What skills does a Pediatric Pharmacist need?

Pediatric Pharmacists should have strong communication skills to converse effectively with both healthcare professionals and children.

They should have excellent attention to detail to ensure accurate dosages.

They also need to be empathetic and patient when dealing with children and their parents.

Sound knowledge of pediatric-specific medication and their effects is crucial in this role.

 

Do Pediatric Pharmacists need a degree?

Yes, Pediatric Pharmacists need to complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, which typically takes four years after undergraduate studies.

They must also pass two state licensing exams.

Additional training, such as a residency in pediatrics, is highly desirable for this specialization.

 

What should you look for in a Pediatric Pharmacist’s resume?

Firstly, ensure they have a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a valid state license to practice pharmacy.

Look for experience in a pediatric setting, such as a children’s hospital or a pediatric department in a general hospital.

Additional qualifications, like a board certification in pediatric pharmacy, can be advantageous.

 

What qualities make a good Pediatric Pharmacist?

A good Pediatric Pharmacist is patient and has a genuine interest in children’s health.

They should be comfortable dealing with children of all ages and have the ability to explain complex medical information in a way that both children and their parents can understand.

They also need to be meticulous in their work to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medication therapy for each child.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly means to be a pediatric pharmacist.

But guess what?

It’s not just about dispensing medication.

It’s about nurturing the health of the future generation, one prescription at a time.

With our ideal pediatric pharmacist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on a new journey.

But why limit yourself?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting targeted listings or perfecting your resume to the highest degree.

Remember:

Every prescription is a part of a child’s health journey.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

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