If you’re a retail pharmacist contemplating a transition to a clinical role, you’re not alone. Many pharmacists in chain and community settings are looking for more autonomy, deeper patient engagement, and the professional fulfillment that clinical pharmacy roles can offer. But how do you make that leap when most clinical positions require experience you don’t yet have? According to pharmacy recruiter Jana Rugg, the key lies in knowing how to position yourself, build credibility, and make intentional moves toward your goal.

Reframe Your Experience—Don’t Undersell It
“Retail pharmacists often underestimate how relevant their experience is,” says Rugg. “Just because you haven’t worked in a hospital doesn’t mean you don’t have clinical skills.” Patient counseling, medication therapy management (MTM), immunizations, and navigating insurance issues are all valuable in clinical settings. Rugg advises candidates to highlight these transferable skills prominently on their resume and during interviews. “Reframe your retail experience using the language of clinical pharmacy,” she says. “Show how you’ve solved medication problems, collaborated with providers, or improved adherence.”

Get Serious About Continuing EducationOne of the clearest signals of clinical commitment is investing in additional training. Rugg recommends starting with certifications like APhA’s MTM certification, the Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS) credential, or courses in anticoagulation, diabetes management, or pharmacokinetics. “Even if you're not eligible to sit for board certification yet, demonstrating that you’re taking steps to build clinical competency goes a long way with hiring managers,” she explains. These credentials not only boost your confidence—they show future employers that you’re already working at the clinical level.

Start Where You Are: Leverage Hybrid or Transitional RolesIf you're not ready—or able—to jump straight into a hospital or specialty role, consider bridge positions. “Look for hybrid roles in outpatient clinics, long-term care pharmacies, infusion centers, or transitions-of-care teams,” Rugg suggests. “These allow you to work in more clinical capacities while still drawing on your retail background.” Some health systems also offer internal training programs for pharmacists willing to work their way into clinical posts. According to Rugg, flexibility and a willingness to take a step sideways (not always up) can dramatically increase your chances of breaking in.
Another smart entry point? Apply for Per Diem or PRN shifts at a hospital or clinical facility. “If you’re willing to take a weekend, evening, or overnight shift, you're much more likely to find an employer who’s open to training and giving you a chance,” says Rugg. These roles may not be glamorous, but they offer hands-on experience, access to clinical workflows, and a foot in the door that can lead to permanent opportunities.

Network Strategically and Ask for Informational InterviewsClinical pharmacy is a small world, and relationships matter. Rugg strongly recommends reaching out to clinical pharmacists on LinkedIn or through alumni networks for informational interviews. “Don’t just ask for a job—ask for insight,” she says. “Most people are happy to share how they got into their role, what they look for in colleagues, or even let you shadow for a day.” Attending pharmacy association events or joining specialty groups (like AMCP or ASHP) can also help you build connections that lead to opportunities. As Rugg puts it: “Networking isn’t optional if you want to change lanes.”
Networking is another advantage of Per Diem or PRN shifts. They do more than simply provide hands-on experience—they expand your professional network within clinical settings. “The more people you meet and work with, the more visible and trusted you become,” says Rugg. “Those relationships often create lead to full-time opportunities and powerful recommendations.”

Work with a Recruiter Who Understands Clinical PharmacyFinally, Rugg emphasizes the importance of working with recruiters who specialize in pharmacy—not generalists. “We understand the nuances between different roles, and we can advocate for candidates coming from non-traditional backgrounds,” she says. A good recruiter can help you tailor your resume, prepare for clinical interviews, and identify employers willing to invest in a motivated pharmacist. Rugg encourages pharmacists to treat the recruiter relationship as a long-term partnership: “The earlier you reach out, the more we can help shape your trajectory.”

Want to Learn More?The transition from retail to clinical pharmacy isn’t instant—but it is absolutely achievable with the right approach. By reframing your experience, committing to education, pursuing transitional roles, networking strategically, and partnering with the right recruiter, you can open doors to a more fulfilling and impactful career. As Jana Rugg puts it, “Don’t let job titles limit your vision. Focus on the skills you bring—and the ones you’re willing to build.”
Interested in learning more about clinical pharmacy opportunities? Connect with Jana Rugg to explore your options and take the next step in your pharmacy career.

The landscape of healthcare employment is undergoing a transformation, and pharmacy professionals have a unique opportunity to benefit. As government agencies implement hiring freezes and downsize, the demand for contract workers is typically rises. This trend presents a strategic opportunity for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians looking for stable and rewarding work.

Economic uncertainty often leads government agencies and commercial healthcare organizations to shift from permanent hires to contracted professionals. Pharmacy is no exception. With a greater need for flexible staffing solutions, institutions such as VA hospitals, federally run healthcare centers, and large commercial pharmacies are increasingly turning to pharmacy contractors to fill critical roles.
At the forefront of this evolving workforce dynamic is Ridgemont Resources, a certified government contractor and minority-owned business, actively placing pharmacy contractors in federally run institutions. As these institutions navigate tighter budgets and evolving workforce needs, the role of pharmacy contractors becomes even more essential in ensuring uninterrupted patient care.

Pharmacy professionals who transition into contract roles can enjoy a variety of benefits, including:

• Flexibility – Contract positions allow pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to have greater control over their schedules, choosing assignments that best fit their personal and professional needs.
• Competitive Pay – Contracting often comes with higher hourly wages compared to permanent positions, as organizations rely on skilled professionals for essential but temporary roles.
• Diverse Work Environments – Contractors gain exposure to various settings, from VA hospitals and government-run clinics to large commercial pharmacies, expanding their skills and experience.
• Job Security in an Uncertain Market – While full-time positions may be cut during budget reductions, contractors remain in high demand as institutions seek to maintain staffing levels without committing to long-term hires.
• Networking Opportunities – Working in multiple healthcare settings allows pharmacy professionals to build connections that can lead to future full-time career opportunities.

Of course, Pharmacy contracting isn’t for everyone. Many contractors find that the benefits far outweigh potential disadvantages such as:

• Limited Benefits: Most contract roles may not provide comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans, requiring individuals to manage these aspects independently.
• Short Term Job Security: The temporary nature of contracts can lead to uncertainty, with potential gaps between assignments affecting income stability.
• Career Development: Contractors might receive fewer opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a single organization.
  

A prevalent misconception is that contract pharmacists merely "put pills in a bottle" and lack opportunities to develop new skills. In reality, contract roles can offer exposure to diverse pharmacy practices, enabling pharmacists to expand their expertise and adapt to various healthcare environments.
"Contracting empowers pharmacists with the flexibility to manage their careers on their terms, offering diverse experiences that enrich their professional journey." — Jana Rugg, President of Ridgemont Resources.

Do contract pharmacists receive benefits?  Typically, contract positions offer higher pay rates to offset the absence of traditional benefits like health insurance and paid leave.

Can contracting lead to permanent employment? While some contract roles may transition to permanent positions, this is not guaranteed and depends on the organization's needs and the individual's performance.

Is contracting suitable for new pharmacy graduates?  Contracting can be advantageous for new graduates seeking to gain diverse experience quickly; however, they should weigh the pros and cons, including the lack of job security and benefits.

In summary, pharmacy contracting offers a unique blend of flexibility and diverse experiences, appealing to those who prioritize autonomy and varied professional opportunities. However, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as limited benefits and job security, to make an informed career decision.

Ridgemont Resources is a trusted partner in the pharmacy contracting industry, specializing in placing highly qualified pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in government and commercial healthcare settings. Our extensive contracting ensures that we are often made aware of new opportunities first.

Candidates love Ridgemont Resources because that they are immediately notified of new openings. As a registered candidate, they are quickly connected to hiring professionals with top-tier opportunities in secure and well-established institutions.

As a GSA contract holder, Ridgemont Resources ensures that the pharmacy professionals are quickly matched with the latest job opportunities.

If you're a licensed pharmacist or pharmacy technician looking for flexible, well-paying opportunities in a growing field, now is the time to explore pharmacy contracting. Register with Ridgemont Resources today at www.ridgemontresources.com to stay informed about upcoming contract positions that fit your qualifications and career goals.

With the continued expansion of contract work in government and commercial pharmacy settings, this is the perfect time to take control of your career. Join the growing network of pharmacy professionals who are leveraging contracting opportunities for greater flexibility, financial rewards, and career growth.

Sign up with Ridgemont Resources now and let us connect you with your next great opportunity!