This position is assigned to the Pharmacy Service at the Atlanta VA Health Care System in Decatur, Georgia. The primary function of the pharmacy technician is to assist the pharmacists in filling and distributing inpatient medications to wards, clinic areas and/ or automated/manual medication dispensing equipment. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship. Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency. Histopathology Technologists must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). Education or Experience. Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent; or at least 3 months experience. Certification. Candidates must be certified by the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Certification is required at grades GS-6 and above. Grade Determinations: GS-06 Experience. One year experience at the next lower level GS-05, and must fully meet the KSAs at the next lower level. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assigned specific KSAs designated by an asterisk(*): Certification. PTCB certification is required at this grade level and above. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to solve problems and make recommendations, e.g., troubleshoot operational problems and refer for appropriate action. Knowledge of the operation and care of automated equipment. Knowledge of, and ability to follow, written instructions for compounding with aseptic technique for hazardous materials such as oncology agents. Knowledge, and ability to perform, compounding with aseptic technique for routine sterile products. Knowledge of policies and procedures for inventory management in specialized areas such as emergency carts. Knowledge of the computerized prescription process demonstrated by the ability to input prescriptions and medication orders. Preferred Experience: Experience with pharmacy automation (Pyxis, Pinnacle TPN); Knowledge and experience with Inpatient pharmacy information/operating systems; Controlled Substance experience References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G28 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-06. Physical Requirements: Principle duties require repetitive use of hands and fingers (e.g., preparing prescriptions, use of a computer keyboard, etc.). May require lifting and carrying light loads (up to 44lbs.), including boxes, equipment, medical supplies, stock boxes etc.; stooping or kneeling (e.g., to pick up items from the floor, remove and replace items on lower shelves, and to file documents in lower file drawers, etc.); sitting, walking, or standing for long periods of time (4-8 hours). Ability to operate automation. Normal ranges of hearing and vision are required to perform work and communicate effectively. An ability to perform tasks requiring rapid mental and muscular coordination functions simultaneously is necessary. Must be physically capable of operating various types of equipment used for the job. ["VA Careers - Pharmacy: https://youtube.com/embed/Fn_ickNBEws Duties include but are not limited to: Ensures that all unit dosed liquids, tablets or dispense units are complete with Manufacturer, Lot #, Expiration date, according to policies, and have been verified by a pharmacist prior to dispensing. Prepackages any medications not packaged by the unit dose automation with accuracy. Ensures that all medications have a readable barcode affixed prior to dispensing. Prepares and documents non-sterile compounds complying with USP795 standards. Communicates with pharmacist when unable to provide medication required. Labels unit of use with adequate cautionary labels (Low risk, Reproductive Risk, Chew Tablet Before Swallowing, etc.) Labels vials and IV bags accurately, e.g. High Alert, Single Dose Vial, etc. Advises the inpatient pharmacy supervisor of problems encountered in the ward inspection. Completes monthly expiration check in pharmacy storage areas to ensure medication is removed prior to expiration date. Performs other duties as assigned by management. Work Schedule: Mon - 10:30pm - 8:30am Tues - 10:30pm-8:30am Wed-Sun - 8:00pm - 8:30am Overnights 7 Days On /7 Days Off Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 503860A Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
About Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.