Poison Information Specialist (Pharmacist)

Nova Scotia Health Authority; Halifax; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

An established healthcare provider is seeking a Specialist in Poison Information to join their dedicated team. This role involves providing critical telephone advice on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological exposures, ensuring public safety across multiple provinces. The ideal candidate will possess a pharmacy degree and demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving skills. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment while collaborating with healthcare professionals. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to diversity, inclusion, and community support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or PharmD required.
• Licensure with Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists preferred.

Responsibilities

• Answering and triaging calls regarding pharmacological exposures.
• Implementing care plans based on guidelines and professional judgment.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Mathematical skills

Problem-solving skills

Computer skills

Bilingual in French and English

Education

Entry-level pharmacy degree

Hospital Pharmacy Residency

Job description

Job Title: Specialist in Poison Information

Req ID: 199751

Department/Program: Atlantic Canada Poison Centre, Children's Medical Care

Location: Halifax

Type of Employment: Temporary Hourly PT (80% FTE) until April 25, 2026, with 1 position available

Start Date: ASAP

Union Status: NSGEU Healthcare, Healthcare Bargaining Unit

Compensation: $47.0341 - $60.8234/hour

Closing Date: May 11, 2025 (Applications accepted until 23:59 Atlantic Time)

About IWK Health

IWK Health is a respected academic health sciences centre located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, providing tertiary and primary care for over two million children, youth, adults, and families annually across the Atlantic region. We have approximately 4000 employees, physicians, volunteers, and learners at various sites across Nova Scotia. We focus on training, mentorship, collaboration, and offer modern facilities and virtual work options. We are committed to supporting our patients, families, communities, and value diversity and inclusion.

We promote an anti-racist environment, recognize the unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people, and are dedicated to eliminating discrimination, building trust, acknowledging biases, and reducing barriers faced by diverse communities. We welcome applications from Indigenous peoples, Black/African Nova Scotians, Persons of Colour, Immigrants, Persons with Disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.

The Opportunity

The Atlantic Canada Poison Centre (ACPC) provides telephone advice and management on pharmacological and non-pharmacological exposures to the public and healthcare providers across Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island.

Responsibilities of the Specialist in Poison Information (SPI):

• Answering and triaging calls, obtaining exposure history, assessing toxicity severity, and providing clear, concise information.
• Implementing care plans based on guidelines, case specifics, and professional judgment.
• Communicating with healthcare providers and facilities about patient information and treatment recommendations.
• Evaluating assessments and recommendations, adhering to follow-up procedures.
• Providing crisis intervention and referrals for callers with medical, drug, or suicidal concerns.
• Assisting in staff training and development, participating in research, and committee work.
• Collaborating with team members to achieve Centre objectives.

Hours of Work

11.25-hour rotating shifts: 08:00-20:00, 20:00-08:00, 12:00-24:00, with schedule flexibility based on self-scheduling guidelines.

Qualifications

• Entry-level pharmacy degree from an accredited university (Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or PharmD).
• Completion of a Hospital Pharmacy Residency or equivalent experience.
• Licensure or eligibility with the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists as an Active Direct Patient Care Pharmacist.
• Certified Specialist in Poison Information (CSPI) preferred; experience in toxicology or Poison Centre setting advantageous.
• Emergency/critical care pharmacist or poison information experience preferred.
• Effective communication skills with diverse audiences.
• Strong mathematical, problem-solving, and computer skills.
• Bilingual in French and English preferred.

Thank you for your interest in IWK Health. We only contact shortlisted candidates. Accommodation requests are welcomed during the assessment process.

This position is within the Healthcare bargaining unit. Preference is given to unionized employees. Clarify benefits and seniority issues before accepting offers involving union or employment status changes.

Employment is contingent upon background checks and credential verification.

If you are an IWK Health employee, please apply through the internal careers page to be recognized as an internal applicant.