VA Pharmacist Jobs Ottumwa IA-Kirksville MO: Your Complete Guide to VA Pharmacy Careers
VA pharmacist positions serving the Ottumwa, IA, and Kirksville, MO, area are primarily available through the Iowa City VA Health Care System, which manages community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) and telehealth services across the region. The VA employs approximately 7,300 pharmacists nationwide and offers robust training programs, competitive federal benefits, and the unique advantage of practicing in any VA facility across all 50 states with a single state license . For veterans seeking pharmacist roles in this region, the Iowa City VA Medical Center serves as the hub, with opportunities at outpatient clinics and through the VA Pharmacy Residency Program .
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Employer | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VHA) |
| Key Facility | Iowa City VA Health Care System (601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA 52246) |
| Salary Range (Iowa) | Clinical Pharmacist: ~$175,895/year; Pharmacist: ~$143,434/year |
| Application Platform | USAJOBS.gov |
| Licensing Requirement | Full, current, unrestricted license in any U.S. state, territory, or DC |
| Education | ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. or B.S. Pharmacy |
| Residency | 1 in 8 clinically trained pharmacists trained at VA; 230+ residency programs nationwide |
What Is a VA Pharmacist Career?
A VA pharmacist is a licensed healthcare professional who provides comprehensive medication management and pharmacy services to America’s veterans. VA pharmacists are recognized as Veterans Health Administration (VHA) healthcare providers and operate with a high degree of autonomy across inpatient acute care and outpatient clinic settings .
What It Is
The VA pharmacy profession involves promoting wellness, preventing and managing diseases, and ensuring patient safety through medication expertise. VA pharmacists collaborate with physicians and other providers to optimize drug therapy and improve patient outcomes .
Who Qualifies
To qualify for VA pharmacist positions, you must meet these basic requirements :
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education: Graduate of an ACPE-accredited College or School of Pharmacy (Pharm.D. or B.S. Pharmacy)
Licensure: Full, current, unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
English Proficiency: Proficient in spoken and written English
Foreign Graduates: Must provide proof of achieving Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Commission (FPGEC) Certification, including passing the FPGEE and TOEFL iBT .
Graduate Pharmacist Exception: Non-licensed pharmacists who otherwise meet eligibility may receive a temporary appointment for up to 2 years under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist .
Why It Matters
VA pharmacy careers offer:
Flexibility: Practice in any VA location nationwide with a single state license
Impact: Serve those who served our country
Professional Growth: Largest pharmacy residency training program in the country
Job Security: Federal employment with comprehensive benefits
What Veterans Should Do Next
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityIf you are a veteran pharmacist or transitioning service member with pharmacy credentials:
Create a USAJOBS account and upload your resume
Search for “Pharmacist” and “Veterans Affairs” positions
Claim veteran preference by submitting your DD-214
Apply early—federal positions can take 1-3 months to process
Current VA Pharmacist Opportunities
Iowa City VA Health Care System (Hub for Ottumwa and Kirksville Region)
The Iowa City VA Medical Center, located at 601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA 52246, is the primary VA facility serving the Ottumwa and Kirksville areas . The facility’s pharmacy provides both inpatient and outpatient services, including a Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) .
Pharmacist (Clinical Pharmacy Specialist) – Ambulatory Care
This position is based at the Iowa City VAMC and serves primary care and specialty medicine clinics .
Key Details:
Grade Level: GS-12
Salary: ~$127,000/year
Location: Iowa City, IA (on-site)
Responsibilities Include:
Comprehensive medication management for complex chronic disease patients
Anticoagulation management
Formulary management
Weight loss therapy
Documenting recommendations and interventions
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (Primary Care) – West Plains, MO
This position serves the West Plains CBOC, which may be relevant to veterans living in the Kirksville, MO, area .
Key Details:
Salary Range: $136,478 – $177,424/year
Location: West Plains, MO (on-site)
Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) assignment
Telework: Ad-hoc
Responsibilities Include :
Chronic disease state management
Medication therapy management
Initiating, modifying, and monitoring pharmaceutical care plans
Ordering lab tests to monitor therapy
Direct patient care through face-to-face, telephone, and video visits
Iowa City VA Pharmacy Residency Programs
The Iowa City VAHCS offers PGY1 and PGY2 pharmacy residency programs. One in every eight clinically trained pharmacists in the U.S. is trained at a VA facility .
PGY1 Residency: Builds upon Pharm.D. education to develop pharmacist practitioners skilled in diverse patient care, practice management, leadership, and education .
Training Sites: Iowa City VA Medical Center, Iowa City VA Outpatient Clinics, and affiliated community-based outpatient clinics .
How to Apply for VA Pharmacist Jobs
Step 1: Create a USAJOBS Account
All federal VA positions are posted on USAJOBS.gov . Create a complete profile and upload your resume.
Step 2: Understand Veteran Preference
Eligible veterans should claim preference:
5-point preference (TP): Served during a war or campaign
10-point preference (CP/CPS/XP): Disabled veterans and certain other groups
Sole Survivor Preference (SSP): Parent or sibling died in service
Note: VA pharmacy positions are in the Excepted Service and do not confer competitive status, but veterans’ preference still applies .
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
For VA pharmacist applications, you will need :
Resume: Use the VA’s standard Clinical Resume Document (available on VA Careers website)
License: Proof of current, unrestricted pharmacy license
Transcripts: From ACPE-accredited pharmacy school
DD-214: For veteran preference
SF-15: For 10-point disabled veteran preference (if applicable)
Step 4: Apply Online
Submit your application through USAJOBS.gov. Ensure all documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Step 5: Complete Pre-Employment Requirements
VA pharmacist positions require :
Background/security investigation
Pre-employment physical examination
Urinalysis for illegal drug use (for testing-designated positions)
Seasonal influenza vaccination (for healthcare personnel)
Note: The VA prohibits requesting criminal history prior to making a tentative job offer under the Fair Chance to Compete Act .
Pharmacist Salary Information in Iowa
Based on reported salaries from current and past VA pharmacy positions in Iowa :
| Position | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Clinical Pharmacist | ~$175,895 |
| Director of Pharmacy | ~$169,533 |
| Pharmacist | ~$143,434 |
| Pharmacy Technician | ~$69,073 |
Note: Salary figures are approximations based on third-party submissions and may vary by location, experience, and grade level.
VA Pharmacy Services and Facilities
Iowa City VA Medical Center Pharmacy
The Iowa City VAMC pharmacy provides comprehensive services:
Outpatient Pharmacy
Location: Room 1W101, Iowa City campus
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT
Services: Prescription pickup, medication counseling
Prescription Refills
Online: VA Prescription Refill and Tracking tool
Phone: 319-338-0581, ext. 635107; toll-free 855-560-1720
Mail: Return refill request form with your prescription order
Order refills at least 10 days before your supply runs out
Medication Disposal: MedSafe boxes are available at the Outpatient Pharmacy for safe disposal of expired or unwanted medications .
Federal Pharmacy Benefits for Pharmacist Employees
VA pharmacist employees receive comprehensive federal benefits:
Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
Thrift Savings Plan with government matching
Annual and sick leave
11 paid holidays
Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
VA Pharmacy Residency Program Details
Why Complete a VA Pharmacy Residency?
Scale: One of the largest residency training programs in the country with over 230 programs nationwide
Specialty Areas: Cardiology, psychiatric, oncology pharmacy, and more
Direct Patient Care: Extensive experience in preparation for advanced clinical practice
Board Certification: Prepares residents for BCPS and other certifications
Iowa City VA Residency Program
The Iowa City VAHCS PGY1 residency program :
Builds upon Pharm.D. education and outcomes
Develops practitioners in diverse patient care, practice management, leadership, and education
Prepares residents for board certification and advanced training
Current Residents include Pharm.D. graduates from the University of Iowa, Drake University, and other programs .
How to Apply to VA Pharmacy Residencies
Applications are processed through the ASHP Residency Showcase and the VA’s pharmacy residency program. Contact the Iowa City VA Health Care System directly for application deadlines and requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not claiming veteran preference – Submit your DD-214 to get hiring priority
Missing licensing deadlines – Ensure your license is current and unrestricted before applying
Incomplete applications – Upload all required documents (resume, transcripts, license)
Ignoring the grade level requirements – GS-12 positions require 1 year of experience at GS-11 level or completion of an ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. program
Not preparing for pre-employment screening – Background checks and physicals are required
Failing to apply for EDRP – Eligible positions offer up to $200,000 in student loan repayment
What Changes Each Year for VA Pharmacy Careers
Annual Checklist for VA Pharmacist Job Seekers
Update your USAJOBS resume – Keep it current with your experience
Renew your license – Ensure it remains active and unrestricted
Check for new job postings – VA positions are posted continuously
Monitor application status – Track through your USAJOBS account
Review EDRP eligibility – If you have student loans, check if your position qualifies
Local Resources for Veteran Employment
Iowa City VA Medical Center
Location: 601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA 52246
Phone: 319-338-0581 (local); 800-637-0128 (toll-free)
Pharmacy: 319-338-0581, ext. 635107; 855-560-1720 (toll-free from outside Iowa City)
Iowa City VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinics
VA pharmacy positions may also be available at CBOCs serving Ottumwa and Kirksville. Contact the Iowa City VA for current openings at regional clinics.
Veterans Service Organizations
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
American Legion
VFW
These organizations can assist with claims and benefits questions.
Common Questions
How do I find VA pharmacist jobs in the Ottumwa-Kirksville area?
Search USAJOBS.gov using keywords like “Pharmacist” and “Veterans Affairs” with location “Iowa City, IA.” The Iowa City VA Health Care System serves the Ottumwa and Kirksville areas through its network of community-based outpatient clinics and telehealth services.
What qualifications do I need for a VA pharmacist position?
You need U.S. citizenship, a Pharm.D. or B.S. Pharmacy degree from an ACPE-accredited school, a full current unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in any U.S. state or territory, and English proficiency. GS-12 positions require 1 year of experience at GS-11 level or completion of an ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. program .
Can I practice at any VA facility with one license?
Yes. Thanks to federal policy, VA pharmacists can practice in any VA location nationwide with a single state license .
How much do VA pharmacists make in Iowa?
Reported salaries for VA pharmacy positions in Iowa include Clinical Pharmacist (~$175,895), Pharmacist (~$143,434), and Pharmacy Technician (~$69,073). These figures are approximations based on third-party data .
What is the VA Pharmacy Residency Program?
The VA has one of the largest pharmacy residency training programs in the country, with over 230 programs nationwide. One in eight clinically trained pharmacists is trained at a VA facility. Specialties include cardiology, psychiatric, and oncology pharmacy .
Does the VA offer student loan repayment for pharmacists?
Yes. The Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) offers up to $200,000 in student loan repayment for eligible positions. A Clinical Pharmacist Specialist (Primary Care) position in West Plains, MO, recently offered EDRP eligibility .
Do I need to be a veteran to work as a VA pharmacist?
No. While the VA actively recruits veterans and provides hiring preference, all qualified U.S. citizens can apply. Some positions may specifically require military experience for veteran-focused roles .
How long does the VA hiring process take?
The VA hiring process typically takes 1-3 months from application to interview, plus additional time for pre-employment requirements including background checks and physical examinations.
Can I work remotely as a VA pharmacist?
Some positions offer ad-hoc telework or telehealth options, but most pharmacy positions are on-site at VA medical centers or clinics. The Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (Primary Care) in West Plains, MO, offers ad-hoc telework .
What documents do I need to apply for a VA pharmacist job?
You need a resume (use the VA Clinical Resume Document), proof of license, transcripts from your pharmacy school, DD-214 (for veteran preference), and SF-15 (for 10-point disabled veteran preference) .
What is the difference between GS-11 and GS-12 pharmacist positions?
GS-11 positions are entry-level, while GS-12 is the full performance level. For GS-12, you must have 1 year of experience at GS-11 level or have completed an ACPE-accredited Pharm.D. program .
Are there pharmacy technician jobs at the VA in Iowa?
Yes. The VA employs pharmacy technicians with reported salaries of approximately $69,073/year in Iowa. Check USAJOBS.gov for current pharmacy technician postings .
Key Takeaways
VA pharmacist positions serving the Ottumwa, IA, and Kirksville, MO, area are based at the Iowa City VA Health Care System (601 Highway 6 West, Iowa City, IA)
VA employs about 7,300 pharmacists nationwide and offers practice across all 50 states with a single state license
Basic qualifications: U.S. citizenship, ACPE-accredited pharmacy degree, full unrestricted license, English proficiency
Estimated Iowa VA pharmacist salaries: Clinical Pharmacist ~$175,895; Pharmacist ~$143,434
Veteran preference is available—claim it by submitting your DD-214
The VA Pharmacy Residency Program has over 230 programs nationwide; 1 in 8 clinically trained pharmacists trained at VA
EDRP offers up to $200,000 in student loan repayment for eligible positions
Non-licensed graduate pharmacists may receive temporary appointments for up to 2 years
Applications are submitted through USAJOBS.gov
Pre-employment requirements include background investigation, physical examination, and vaccination compliance
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