Position Overview
The Certified Pharmacy Technician Lead provides advanced supervisory and technical support at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) located in Ladson, SC. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of pharmacy technician staff, ensuring the accurate preparation, packaging, and dispensing of medications for veteran patients, and maintaining strict compliance with all applicable federal, VA, and facility regulations. This is a 5-year contract position with shift options available.
Available Shifts: 1st Shift: 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM | 2nd Shift: 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Key Responsibilities
Supervision & Team Leadership
- Oversee daily operational activities of pharmacy technician staff within assigned shift
- Orient, train, and mentor new pharmacy technicians on CMOP workflows, equipment, and compliance requirements
- Support supervisory staff in conducting performance evaluations and monitoring technician performance
- Serve as the primary point of contact for technician team members, resolving operational issues in real time
- Coordinate workflow assignments to ensure efficient and accurate prescription processing throughput
- Provide guidance on complex or escalated pharmacy operations scenarios
Pharmaceutical Operations
- Assist licensed pharmacists in the preparation, packaging, and dispensing of legend drug prescriptions for veteran patients
- Maintain accurate pharmaceutical records and documentation in accordance with VA and federal requirements
- Oversee inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and monitoring medication supplies
- Process and prioritize prescription orders in compliance with CMOP standard operating procedures
- Ensure accurate labeling, packaging, and documentation accompany all dispensed medications
Technology & Automation
- Operate and oversee pharmacy automation systems including Autofill dispensing systems, Baker Cells, Kalish Cells, and A-frame dispensing equipment
- Operate and maintain scales and other precision measurement equipment
- Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and escalate maintenance needs to appropriate personnel
- Ensure accuracy and integrity of automated dispensing processes through regular monitoring and verification
Compliance & Safety
- Enforce adherence to all CMOP Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across the technician team
- Ensure proper handling, labeling, and disposal of hazardous materials in compliance with applicable regulations
- Maintain strict HIPAA compliance and safeguard veteran patient information at all times
- Support quality assurance activities and assist with internal audits and inspections as required
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Active pharmacy technician certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (ExCPT)
- Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience in a pharmacy or related healthcare setting
- Strong administrative and organizational skills with attention to detail
- Ability to effectively communicate with pharmacists, technicians, and facility management
Preferred
- Prior experience in a high-volume mail order or federal pharmacy environment (VA, DoD, or CMOP)
- Familiarity with pharmacy automation equipment including Autofill, Baker Cells, Kalish Cells, or A-frame systems
- Experience with VA pharmacy systems and electronic health record documentation
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to stand and remain on feet for 8 to 10 hours per shift
- Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm motions associated with packaging and dispensing operations
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including 1st or 2nd shift as assigned