Explore how your federal experience as a Pharmacist (GS-0660) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Pharmacy Technician, Pharmaceutical Assistant, Junior Pharmacist | Assists licensed pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and managing inventory. Responsible for pharmacy operations and ensuring compliance with legal standards. | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| 5-7 | Pharmacist, Staff Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist | Manages medication therapy, educates patients on drug usage, reviews prescriptions for accuracy, and collaborates with healthcare professionals. Responsible for patient consultations and contributes to formulary management. | $60,000 - $90,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Pharmacist, Pharmacy Manager, Clinical Specialist | Oversees pharmacy operations, formulary development, and medication safety. Provides clinical guidance to staff and engages in quality improvement initiatives. Ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and policies. | $90,000 - $120,000 |
| 10-11 | Pharmacy Director, Clinical Pharmacy Manager, Medication Management Consultant | Leads pharmacy services, develops departmental policies, and directs medication management programs. Responsible for budgeting, resource allocation, and staff development. Engages in strategic planning to align with healthcare organization goals. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 12-13 | Pharmacy Operations Director, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Healthcare Strategy Consultant | Shapes the strategic direction of pharmaceutical care within the organization, evaluates clinical outcomes, and develops innovative pharmacy practices. Represents the pharmacy department in executive meetings and works on multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient care. | $150,000 - $180,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Pharmacy Officer, Senior Director of Pharmacy Services, Pharmaceutical Services Executive | Defines the overall vision and strategy for pharmacy services across the organization. Oversees multiple pharmacy operations, evaluates industry trends, and advocates for pharmaceutical care quality and efficacy. Makes high-level decisions impacting pharmacy practice and patient care outcomes. | $180,000 - $225,000 |
| SES | Vice President of Pharmacy Operations, Executive Director of Pharmacotherapy, Chief Healthcare Officer | Develops and implements comprehensive strategies for pharmaceutical services organization-wide. Engages with executive leadership to align pharmacy goals with organizational objectives, manages large teams, and drives innovation in medication management and safety initiatives. | $250,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy)
The Pharm.D. is the foundational degree for pharmacists, providing comprehensive training in pharmaceutical sciences, patient care, and medication management. Obtaining this degree is essential for obtaining a pharmacist license and is highly regarded by civilian employers, demonstrating advanced knowledge and competency in the field.
Board Certification (BCPS or BCACP)
Board certification in Pharmacotherapy (BCPS) or Ambulatory Care Pharmacy (BCACP) validates an advanced level of practice and expertise in pharmaceutical care. This credential is recognized by employers as a marker of professional excellence and can enhance employment prospects and potential leadership opportunities in the civilian sector.
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)
Achieving CDE status showcases specialized knowledge and skills in managing diabetes care, which is increasingly relevant due to the growing prevalence of diabetes. This credential indicates an ability to provide comprehensive care and education, making a pharmacist an invaluable asset in healthcare settings focusing on chronic disease management.
Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Certification
MTM certification equips pharmacists with essential skills to optimize medication use and improve patient outcomes. This certification is highly sought after by civilian healthcare organizations looking for pharmacists who can lead medication management efforts and improve quality of care.
ACCP Clinical Research Certificate
The ACCP Clinical Research Certificate provides foundational knowledge in conducting clinical research and understanding the research process, essential for pharmacists involved in drug development or clinical trials. Having this certification illustrates a commitment to staying at the forefront of pharmaceutical progress, appealing to employers involved in innovative healthcare solutions.
Certified in Public Health (CPH)
The CPH credential signifies expertise in public health practices and knowledge that are crucial for pharmacists involved in community health initiatives and education. Given the growing emphasis on public health in civilian roles, this certification allows pharmacists to contribute effectively to population health strategies.
Clinical Trials Management Certification
This certification prepares pharmacists to manage clinical trials effectively, including regulatory compliance, data management, and ethical oversight. In a civilian setting, this expertise can position a pharmacist as a key player in research-focused organizations or clinical settings that require compliance with rigorous standards.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Certification
Although primarily aimed at pharmacy technicians, maintaining PTCB certification demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and underscores the importance of teamwork in pharmacy settings. In civilian roles, such certification can enhance the pharmacist's effectiveness in supervising pharmacy support staff, established through a foundation of recognized, practical knowledge.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0660 Pharmacist role to private sector employment can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate this change successfully. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you in this process.
Embrace Change: Start by accepting that the private sector operates differently than the federal system. Be open to new processes, cultural differences, and levels of flexibility. This shift can be liberating and enhance your professional growth.
Focus on Impact Over Process: Federal roles often prioritize compliance and procedure. In the private sector, results and impact are more critical. Shift your thinking to emphasize how your actions drive results and improve patient care.
Adopt a Growth Mindset: View challenges as opportunities to learn. The private sector values adaptability and innovation, so embracing a growth mindset will help you thrive in a dynamic environment.
Understand Value Proposition: Recognize that your federal experience has equipped you with unique skills and perspectives, particularly in patient care, regulatory compliance, and organizational efficiency. Understand how to leverage these in conversations about your capabilities.
Tailor Your Resume: Modify your resume for each position you apply for. Highlight skills and accomplishments that align with the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Translate Federal Jargon: Many private sector employers may not understand federal terminology. For example, instead of using terms like "clinical guidelines compliance," consider phrasing it as "ensured adherence to clinical standards that enhanced patient outcomes."
Highlight Transferable Skills: Focus on skills such as leadership, problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management. Illustrate these through specific examples from your federal career.
Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and metrics to give employers context. Instead of saying you "managed a pharmacy program," specify "managed a pharmacy program serving 500+ patients, improving medication adherence by 20% over two years."
Professional Summary: Start your resume with a summary that captures your career highlights and summarizes your goals. Mention your years of experience and key competencies in pharmacy and management to grab attention.
Prepare Your Pitch: Craft a concise, compelling elevator pitch that summarizes your background, experience, and what you bring to a potential employer. Practice delivering this pitch until it feels natural.
Behavioral Interviews: Be ready for behavioral interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and adaptability.
Cultural Fit: Research the company culture and values. Prepare to discuss how your experiences and values align with theirs. Share examples of how you’ve demonstrated flexibility or innovation in past roles.
Ask Insightful Questions: Demonstrating interest and engagement during the interview is crucial. Ask questions about the company's challenges, goals, and culture. This shows you are serious about their organization and your potential role in it.
Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and aspirations. Connect with former colleagues, industry peers, and professionals in your desired field. Join groups related to pharmacy and healthcare that can provide job leads and insights.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in local or virtual industry conferences, seminars, and workshops. These venues provide excellent opportunities for networking and learning about trends and demands in the private sector.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals currently working in your target roles or organizations. Ask if they would be willing to share their experiences and advice for transitioning into the private sector. This can provide you with invaluable insights.
Reconnect with Alumni: If you attended college or pharmacy school, connect with alumni working in the private sector. Alumni networks often provide mentoring and networking opportunities that can ease your transition.
Transitioning from a federal GS-0660 Pharmacist role to the private sector can be a fulfilling journey with immense opportunities for growth. By shifting your mindset, revamping your resume, honing your interview skills, actively networking, and translating your federal experience into private sector language, you set yourself up for success.
Remember, every step you take toward understanding and integrating into the private healthcare landscape is a step toward a rewarding new chapter in your professional life. Stay positive, persistent, and proactive in your efforts, and you will find a role that not only values your experience but challenges and inspires you in new ways.