Job Description

Pharmacy Storekeeper
Department: Pharmacy
Reports to: Pharmacy Manager / Chief Pharmacist
Position Summary
The Pharmacy Storekeeper is responsible for the efficient and effective management of the hospital's pharmacy inventory. This includes receiving, storing, issuing, and controlling all pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and consumables. The role demands a high level of accuracy, organization, and compliance with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and safety protocols to ensure the uninterrupted availability of critical medications for patient care.
Key Responsibilities
1. Inventory Management & Control

• Receive, inspect, and verify all incoming pharmaceutical orders against purchase orders and delivery notes for accuracy and quality.
• Properly store all items according to their specific requirements (e.g., refrigerated, controlled substances, ambient temperature) and following FIFO (First-In, First-Out) or FEFO (First-Expired, First-Out) principles.
• Maintain optimal stock levels to prevent shortages or overstocking by conducting regular stock checks and anticipating needs in collaboration with pharmacists.
• Monitor and track medication expiration dates, coordinating the removal and disposal of expired or damaged stock.
• Manage the re-ordering process by generating purchase requisitions and liaising with suppliers and the procurement department.

2. Storage & Issuance

• Issue supplies to various hospital departments (wards, clinics, OR, etc.) accurately and in a timely manner based on authorized requisitions.
• Maintain a clean, secure, and well-organized storeroom, ensuring all areas are clearly labeled.
• Safely operate and perform basic maintenance on storage equipment (e.g., refrigerators, freezers, shelving).
• Prepare and manage emergency crash cart trays and kits, ensuring they are fully stocked and ready for use.

3. Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the inventory management system (manual or digital).
• Process all transactions, including receipts, issues, and returns, to ensure real-time inventory accuracy.
• Assist in conducting regular physical stock counts and reconciling them with system records to identify and investigate discrepancies.
• Strictly adhere to all protocols for handling controlled drugs (narcotics, psychotropics), including maintaining the required logs and ensuring secure storage in compliance with DEA/Drug Controller regulations.
• Ensure compliance with all hospital policies, as well as local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., Joint Commission, FDA, OSHA).

4. Communication & Coordination

• Serve as a key liaison between the pharmacy department, nursing staff, and the central supply/procurement team.
• Report any stock shortages, supply issues, or damaged goods to the supervising pharmacist immediately.
• Communicate effectively with vendors regarding deliveries, returns, and discrepancies.

Qualifications & Experience
Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• Diploma or Certification in Pharmacy Technology, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (highly preferred).

Experience:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a storekeeper, inventory controller, or pharmacy technician in a hospital or healthcare setting.
• Proven experience with inventory management software and systems.

Licenses/Certifications (Preferred):

• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) is a significant advantage.
• Valid certification in handling controlled substances (if applicable).

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong Organizational Skills: Meticulous attention to detail and ability to maintain an orderly environment.
• Numerical Accuracy: Proficiency in basic math and record-keeping.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
• Integrity & Discretion: High level of honesty and trustworthiness, especially when handling controlled substances.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift boxes (up to [e.g., 25-30 lbs]), and reach high or low shelves.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify issues (e.g., discrepancies, shortages) and take appropriate action.
• Teamwork & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with a diverse healthcare team.

Working Conditions

• Primarily works in a pharmacy storeroom environment.
• May involve exposure to dust, cold temperatures from refrigerators/freezers, and various chemicals/pharmaceuticals.
• Requires adherence to strict safety and hygiene protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• May require occasional overtime or on-call duties to handle urgent supply needs.

Skills Required