Pharmacy Technician (Inpatient/Outpatient)
SummaryThis Pharmacy Technician position is in the Pharmacy Service at the VA Maine Healthcare System located at the Togus, ME campus location.
This position is full-time at 40 hours per week.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates 10/20/2023 to 02/02/2024 Salary $54,826 - $71,270 per year Pay scale & grade GS 6 Help Location1 vacancy in the following location Togus, ME Remote job No Telework eligible Yes-as determined by the agency policy.
Travel Required 25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed No Appointment type Permanent - Work schedule Full-time - Service Excepted Promotion potential None Job family (Series) 0661 Pharmacy Technician Supervisory status No Security clearance Other Drug test Yes Position sensitivity and risk Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination process CredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement number CBTD-12164582-24-DD Control number 756130800HelpThis job is open to The public U.
S.
Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.
S.
Clarification from the agencyUS Citizens Due to a critical staffing shortage, 38 U.
S.
C.
7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans' preference for this job announcement.
VideosHelpDutiesThe pharmacy technician must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to process and fill orders for prescriptions and supplies, operate and maintain dispensing equipment, operate and use Pharmacy information systems, maintain appropriate files and records and prepare sterile compounds under supervision.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Outpatient Pharmacy Consistently fills orders, checking for integrity and accuracy (correct drug, strength, dosage form, amount and patient).
Perform regular cleaning and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
Handle controlled substances in compliance with all policies, procedures and laws including security, storage, dispensing, verification, reconciliation, and documentation.
Perform non-sterile compounding including, but not limited to ointments, lotions, solutions, etc.
Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of pharmacy by cleaning of glassware, spatulas, bottles, shelves, counters, cabinets and all other items or areas associated with prescription processing.
Understand principles of inventory control; monitors for changes in pattern of use.
Deal appropriately with direct and telephone inquiries from patients, Medical Center staff and others referring any unanswerable questions concerning professional practice to a pharmacist.
Follow all pharmacy policies and procedures regarding handling, storage, dispensing and disposal of hazardous medications according to USP.
Inpatient Pharmacy Follow policies and procedures for preparation of sterile products including USP and such as hand washing, garbing/gowning, cleanliness and sanitation standards of room(s)/area(s) and hazardous substance handling and aseptic technique.
Independently calculates volume and/or dose needed.
Maintain paperwork related to preparation, dispensing and storing.
Have extensive knowledge of safe dosages, frequencies and storage requirements for medications handled.
Prepare items requiring packing into unit of use prior to dispensing or storing while following all policies and procedures regarding handling, labeling, expiry dating, storage and record keeping.
Independently calculates volume and/or dose needed.
Handle pre-exchanges, missing doses, Automated Dispensing Cabinet (ADC) and ward stock requests accurately and timely, preparing items for final check.
Deliver/ship all orders in an accurate and timely manner.
Perform monthly assigned inspections (ward/clinic/pharmacy).
Assist procurement technician with daily order receipt and reconciliation with purchase order and restocks shelves, rotating stock appropriately.
Communicate efficiently with all internal and external customers to triage and resolve any potential problems concerning any step of the pharmacy process from ordering to distribution while minimizing delays to patient care.
Assist in drug recall procedures, examining shelf stock and pulling recalled drugs from shelf.
Incumbent may be asked to assist pharmacists in contacting patients involved in a recall event.
Work Schedule:
Full Time - Multiple Daytime Shifts AvailableCompressed/Flexible:
Not AuthorizedTelework:
Yes, Telework Ad-Hoc work can be performed on an as needed basis anywhere other than a VA facility or using VA-leased space.
Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement# F03982Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
May be authorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredNotifications This position is in an AFGE Bargaining Unit position.
This position is in the Excepted Service.
Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.
The incumbent may be required to travel to other VA campuses and CBOC's.
Current and former Federal employees must submit copies of their most recent SF-50, (Notice of Personnel Action).
The SF-50 must identify the position title, series, grade, step, tenure and type of service (Competitive or Excepted).
In some cases, more than one SF-50 may be required to show a higher grade previously held.
This position is covered by a special rate.
Narrative responses to the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) may be required from the selectee in order to proceed with the appointment.
HelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
May be subject to satisfactory completion of our credentialing process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Basic Requirements:
To qualify for appointment to this position, all applicants must possess the following:
Citizenship:
Be a citizen of the United States (U.
S.
).
Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
7407(a).
Education or
Experience:
A high school diploma or equivalent; or at least 3 months experience.
Certification:
Certification by the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is required at grades GS-6 and above.
English Language:
Pharmacy technicians appointed to direct patient care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English.
GRADE DETERMINATION.
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be met for the GS 6 Level.
Experience:
Have one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS-5), and must fully meet the KSA's at the GS 5 level.
i.
Ability to operate and care for automated dispensing devices and equipment.
ii.
Knowledge of, and ability to perform, aseptic technique.
iii.
Knowledge of basic inventory procedures.
iv.
Knowledge of pharmacy information systems.
In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs at the GS 6 Level:
i.
Ability to solve problems and make recommendations, e.
g.
, troubleshoot operational problems and refer for appropriate action.
ii.
Knowledge of the operation and care of automated equipment.
iii.
Knowledge of, and ability to follow, written instructions for compounding with aseptic technique for hazardous materials such as oncology agents.
iv.
Knowledge, and ability to perform, compounding with aseptic technique for routine sterile products.
v.
Knowledge of policies and procedures for inventory management in specialized areas such as emergency carts.
vi.
Knowledge of the computerized prescription process demonstrated by the ability to input prescriptions and medication orders.
References:
VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G28Physical Requirements:
Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical in accordance with VA policy.
The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion, involving standing for a prolonged period of time, lifting/carrying/pushing of pharmaceutical supplies weighing up to 50 lb.
, and bending/stooping.
IV room duties require manual dexterity and repetitive motions.
Some of the work may be sedentary in nature.
Work Environment:
Work is typically performed in a clinical setting that exposes the incumbent to communicable diseases, loud noises, biohazards, hazardous chemicals and hazardous medications common in a healthcare environment.
Such exposure will be mitigated in accordance with local policies and operating procedures as per USP standards, OSHA guidance and local risk assessment practices.
Standard safety precautions and PPE are required and specified per local policies.
EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
/>Additional information THIS OPEN & CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT (OCA) ESTABLISHES A STANDING REGISTER OF ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS, which closes on 2/2/2024.
The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be 11/3/2023 with subsequent reviews every other week as additional vacancies occur, or on an as-needed basis, until positions are filled.
What To Expect Next area of the announcement which provides additional information on the referral process for this type of announcement.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more Benefits Help A career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Recommended Skills Clinical Works Credentialing Fine Motor Skills Health Administration Information Systems Maintenance Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
This position is full-time at 40 hours per week.
Learn more about this agencyHelpOverview Accepting applications Open & closing dates 10/20/2023 to 02/02/2024 Salary $54,826 - $71,270 per year Pay scale & grade GS 6 Help Location1 vacancy in the following location Togus, ME Remote job No Telework eligible Yes-as determined by the agency policy.
Travel Required 25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position.
Relocation expenses reimbursed No Appointment type Permanent - Work schedule Full-time - Service Excepted Promotion potential None Job family (Series) 0661 Pharmacy Technician Supervisory status No Security clearance Other Drug test Yes Position sensitivity and risk Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk Trust determination process CredentialingSuitability/Fitness Announcement number CBTD-12164582-24-DD Control number 756130800HelpThis job is open to The public U.
S.
Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.
S.
Clarification from the agencyUS Citizens Due to a critical staffing shortage, 38 U.
S.
C.
7412 waives the requirement to apply Veterans' preference for this job announcement.
VideosHelpDutiesThe pharmacy technician must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities to process and fill orders for prescriptions and supplies, operate and maintain dispensing equipment, operate and use Pharmacy information systems, maintain appropriate files and records and prepare sterile compounds under supervision.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Outpatient Pharmacy Consistently fills orders, checking for integrity and accuracy (correct drug, strength, dosage form, amount and patient).
Perform regular cleaning and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
Handle controlled substances in compliance with all policies, procedures and laws including security, storage, dispensing, verification, reconciliation, and documentation.
Perform non-sterile compounding including, but not limited to ointments, lotions, solutions, etc.
Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of pharmacy by cleaning of glassware, spatulas, bottles, shelves, counters, cabinets and all other items or areas associated with prescription processing.
Understand principles of inventory control; monitors for changes in pattern of use.
Deal appropriately with direct and telephone inquiries from patients, Medical Center staff and others referring any unanswerable questions concerning professional practice to a pharmacist.
Follow all pharmacy policies and procedures regarding handling, storage, dispensing and disposal of hazardous medications according to USP.
Inpatient Pharmacy Follow policies and procedures for preparation of sterile products including USP and such as hand washing, garbing/gowning, cleanliness and sanitation standards of room(s)/area(s) and hazardous substance handling and aseptic technique.
Independently calculates volume and/or dose needed.
Maintain paperwork related to preparation, dispensing and storing.
Have extensive knowledge of safe dosages, frequencies and storage requirements for medications handled.
Prepare items requiring packing into unit of use prior to dispensing or storing while following all policies and procedures regarding handling, labeling, expiry dating, storage and record keeping.
Independently calculates volume and/or dose needed.
Handle pre-exchanges, missing doses, Automated Dispensing Cabinet (ADC) and ward stock requests accurately and timely, preparing items for final check.
Deliver/ship all orders in an accurate and timely manner.
Perform monthly assigned inspections (ward/clinic/pharmacy).
Assist procurement technician with daily order receipt and reconciliation with purchase order and restocks shelves, rotating stock appropriately.
Communicate efficiently with all internal and external customers to triage and resolve any potential problems concerning any step of the pharmacy process from ordering to distribution while minimizing delays to patient care.
Assist in drug recall procedures, examining shelf stock and pulling recalled drugs from shelf.
Incumbent may be asked to assist pharmacists in contacting patients involved in a recall event.
Work Schedule:
Full Time - Multiple Daytime Shifts AvailableCompressed/Flexible:
Not AuthorizedTelework:
Yes, Telework Ad-Hoc work can be performed on an as needed basis anywhere other than a VA facility or using VA-leased space.
Virtual:
This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement# F03982Relocation/Recruitment Incentives:
May be authorizedFinancial Disclosure Report:
Not requiredNotifications This position is in an AFGE Bargaining Unit position.
This position is in the Excepted Service.
Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.
The incumbent may be required to travel to other VA campuses and CBOC's.
Current and former Federal employees must submit copies of their most recent SF-50, (Notice of Personnel Action).
The SF-50 must identify the position title, series, grade, step, tenure and type of service (Competitive or Excepted).
In some cases, more than one SF-50 may be required to show a higher grade previously held.
This position is covered by a special rate.
Narrative responses to the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) may be required from the selectee in order to proceed with the appointment.
HelpRequirementsConditions of Employment You must be a U.
S.
Citizen to apply for this job.
All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
You may be required to serve a probationary period.
Subject to background/security investigation.
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
May be subject to satisfactory completion of our credentialing process.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See Additional Information below for details.
QualificationsTo qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Basic Requirements:
To qualify for appointment to this position, all applicants must possess the following:
Citizenship:
Be a citizen of the United States (U.
S.
).
Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with 38 U.
S.
C.
7407(a).
Education or
Experience:
A high school diploma or equivalent; or at least 3 months experience.
Certification:
Certification by the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is required at grades GS-6 and above.
English Language:
Pharmacy technicians appointed to direct patient care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English.
GRADE DETERMINATION.
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be met for the GS 6 Level.
Experience:
Have one year of experience at the next lower grade level (GS-5), and must fully meet the KSA's at the GS 5 level.
i.
Ability to operate and care for automated dispensing devices and equipment.
ii.
Knowledge of, and ability to perform, aseptic technique.
iii.
Knowledge of basic inventory procedures.
iv.
Knowledge of pharmacy information systems.
In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs at the GS 6 Level:
i.
Ability to solve problems and make recommendations, e.
g.
, troubleshoot operational problems and refer for appropriate action.
ii.
Knowledge of the operation and care of automated equipment.
iii.
Knowledge of, and ability to follow, written instructions for compounding with aseptic technique for hazardous materials such as oncology agents.
iv.
Knowledge, and ability to perform, compounding with aseptic technique for routine sterile products.
v.
Knowledge of policies and procedures for inventory management in specialized areas such as emergency carts.
vi.
Knowledge of the computerized prescription process demonstrated by the ability to input prescriptions and medication orders.
References:
VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G28Physical Requirements:
Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical in accordance with VA policy.
The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion, involving standing for a prolonged period of time, lifting/carrying/pushing of pharmaceutical supplies weighing up to 50 lb.
, and bending/stooping.
IV room duties require manual dexterity and repetitive motions.
Some of the work may be sedentary in nature.
Work Environment:
Work is typically performed in a clinical setting that exposes the incumbent to communicable diseases, loud noises, biohazards, hazardous chemicals and hazardous medications common in a healthcare environment.
Such exposure will be mitigated in accordance with local policies and operating procedures as per USP standards, OSHA guidance and local risk assessment practices.
Standard safety precautions and PPE are required and specified per local policies.
EducationIMPORTANT:
A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note:
Only education or degrees recognized by the U.
S.
Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment.
You can verify your education here:
http:
//ope.
ed.
gov/accreditation/.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.
For further information, visit:
http:
//www.
ed.
gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.
html.
/>Additional information THIS OPEN & CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT (OCA) ESTABLISHES A STANDING REGISTER OF ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS, which closes on 2/2/2024.
The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications will be 11/3/2023 with subsequent reviews every other week as additional vacancies occur, or on an as-needed basis, until positions are filled.
What To Expect Next area of the announcement which provides additional information on the referral process for this type of announcement.
Receiving Service Credit or Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave:
Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee.
Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience.
This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.
Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Pursuant to VHA Directive 1193.
01, VHA health care personnel (HCP) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 subject to such accommodations as required by law (i.
e.
, medical, religious or pregnancy).
VHA HCPs do not include remote workers who only infrequently enter VHA locations.
If selected, you will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and submit documentation of proof of vaccination before your start date.
The agency will provide additional information regarding what information or documentation will be needed and how you can request a legally required accommodation from this requirement using the reasonable accommodation process.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Read more Benefits Help A career with the U.
S.
government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package.
As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.
Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent.
Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How You Will Be Evaluated You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC.
WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Your application, resume, C.
V.
, and/or supporting documentation will be verified.
Please follow all instructions carefully.
Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.
g.
, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.
g.
, professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.
g.
, on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members:
Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Recommended Skills Clinical Works Credentialing Fine Motor Skills Health Administration Information Systems Maintenance Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
|
|
 | |
