Northwest Health System Springdale

Job Summary

The Pharmacy Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement of pharmaceuticals and related supplies to ensure the availability of essential medications while maintaining cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance. This role supports pharmacy operations through efficient purchasing, inventory management, vendor coordination, and collaboration with internal stakeholders to meet patient care needs.

Essential Functions

• Coordinates the procurement of medications, medical supplies, and pharmacy-related equipment in alignment with hospital policies, inventory targets, and regulatory standards.
• Maintains relationships with vendors and negotiates pricing, contract terms, and delivery schedules to ensure consistent product availability, quality, and cost efficiency.
• Monitors medication inventory levels, usage trends, and reorder points to minimize waste, prevent stockouts, and ensure appropriate inventory turnover.
• Conducts regular inventory audits and assists with physical inventory counts to ensure inventory accuracy and compliance with internal controls.
• Assists in the development and monitoring of the pharmacy purchasing budget by analyzing purchasing trends, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and managing expenditures.
• Generates and maintains reports related to purchasing activities, inventory status, and financial performance for management review.
• Collaborates with pharmacy leadership, clinical teams, and supply chain staff to anticipate needs, address shortages, and ensure timely access to critical medications and supplies.
• Identifies and implements process improvements to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of purchasing and inventory management functions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in pharmacy operations, purchasing, or inventory management required
• 2-4 years of healthcare or hospital pharmacy experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of pharmaceutical products, inventory systems, and procurement processes.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and pharmacy management or inventory systems.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively across departments.
• Understanding of hospital regulatory requirements and compliance standards related to pharmacy procurement.

Licenses and Certifications

• LPT - Licensed Pharmacy Tech required
• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) preferred
• BCLS - Basic Life Support preferred