Pharmacy Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology. The organization operates in more than 70 countries, including all 50 U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to humanitarian efforts. The Crisis Response team at FHI 360 has been actively involved in addressing the humanitarian emergency in regions such as Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and Somali, and has expanded its operations to the Oromia Region to support affected communities.

Job Overview:
The Pharmacy Assistant will work under the supervision of the Senior Pharmaceutical Officer to support health and nutrition programming in the Lalibela and Sekota field office catchment health facilities. This role involves managing both medical and non-medical warehouses, overseeing daily activities related to pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical inventory. Key responsibilities include receiving and storing pharmaceuticals and non-medical items according to established guidelines, issuing these items to health facilities, and monitoring their proper utilization. The assistant will maintain accurate records of inventory management in line with FHI 360 protocols, collaborate with the logistics team for effective distribution practices, and travel to health facilities for supportive supervision and data collection related to pharmaceutical availability and consumption. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure the efficient operation of the pharmaceutical supply chain within health facilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage medical and non-medical warehouses, ensuring proper conditions including temperature control and hygiene.
• Ensure all incoming goods meet specifications and prepare Goods Received Notes (GRNs) promptly.
• Receive, store, and distribute items to health facilities, maintaining an organized and clearly labeled store.
• Monitor stock levels, alert thresholds, stockouts, and expiry dates, ensuring proper cold chain management.
• Coordinate loading and unloading of goods, prepare inventory reports, and perform stock reconciliations.
• Participate in regular physical inventory counts and manage expired or damaged products.
• Pack shipments accurately, label freight, and generate monthly warehouse reports.
• Maintain accurate records of inventory management, including drug consumption and stock levels.
• Provide regular updates on inventory to the program team and update warehouse files timely. 1
• Travel to health facilities for supportive supervision and data collection, coordinating with the logistics department on item orders and distribution. 1
• Follow established departmental policies and procedures, ensuring quality improvement and safety standards are met. 1
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned by the Health and Nutrition or Logistics team.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in database management software and online search tools.
• Sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of political and ethical issues in assigned areas.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate professionally.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to analyze data, identify errors, and prepare reports.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to implement corrective actions as needed.
• Must be fluent in English, both written and spoken.

Educational Background:
A degree in pharmacy is required for this position, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary academic foundation to perform the duties effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of experience working as a pharmacist is required. Previous experience with donor-funded programs, particularly USAID/BHA, is advantageous. Experience working with humanitarian organizations is also beneficial. The candidate must be willing to travel to program implementation sites and stay in the field as needed.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent communication skills in the local language being a significant advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve physical discomforts associated with changes in weather or security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The role requires current, active professional registration as a licensed pharmacist in Ethiopia with no restrictions. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.