What does a production pharmacist do?

1 Role and responsibilities

A production pharmacist is responsible for managing the production line of pharmaceutical products, from raw materials to finished products. They ensure that the production process follows the good manufacturing practice (GMP) guidelines, that the products are safe, effective, and compliant with the specifications, and that the quality and quantity targets are met. A production pharmacist may also be involved in developing and optimizing the production methods, testing and validating the products, troubleshooting any issues, and training and supervising the production staff.

2 Skills and qualifications

To become a production pharmacist, you need to have a degree in pharmacy and a license to practice as a pharmacist in your country. You also need to have relevant experience in the pharmaceutical industry, preferably in a production or quality control role. Additionally, you need to have strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as well as good communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. You also need to be familiar with the GMP regulations, the production equipment and software, and the quality control methods and standards.

3 Challenges and opportunities

A production pharmacist faces various challenges and opportunities in their work. Some of the challenges include meeting the deadlines and targets, ensuring the quality and consistency of the products, complying with the regulations and audits, and dealing with any unexpected issues or changes in the production process. Some of the opportunities include learning new skills and technologies, contributing to the development and innovation of new products, and advancing to senior or managerial positions.

4 Benefits and drawbacks

A production pharmacist can enjoy several benefits and drawbacks from their work. Some of the benefits include having a stable and rewarding career, working in a dynamic and diverse environment, and making a positive impact on the health and well-being of the patients and consumers. Some of the drawbacks include having a high-pressure and demanding work, facing potential risks and hazards from the production materials and equipment, and having to work long or irregular hours.

5 Salary and outlook

According to PayScale, the average salary for a production pharmacist in the United States is $94,451 per year, as of September 2021. However, the salary may vary depending on the location, industry, experience, and education of the production pharmacist. The outlook for the production pharmacist career is positive, as the demand for pharmaceutical products is expected to grow due to the aging population, the chronic diseases, and the emerging markets.

6 Tips and advice

If you're looking to pursue a career as a production pharmacist, there are several tips and advice that can help you succeed. It's important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the pharmaceutical industry and production technology. Networking with other professionals in the field and joining relevant associations and organizations can also be beneficial. Additionally, seeking feedback and guidance from mentors and peers can help you learn from their experiences and best practices. Being flexible and adaptable to changing needs and expectations of the production process and customers, as well as being proactive and creative when finding solutions for production challenges and opportunities, are also important.