Position Overview
The Shipper/Packer is responsible for the accurate packaging and distribution of prescription medications for veteran patients at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) in Ladson, SC. This role plays a critical part in ensuring that medications are correctly packaged, labeled, and shipped to veterans in a timely and compliant manner. The Shipper/Packer operates automated and manual packaging equipment, monitors inventory supplies, and adheres to all applicable OSHA, HIPAA, and hazardous materials handling regulations in a high-volume, mission-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
Packaging & Shipping
- Select appropriate shipping containers and packing materials based on prescription contents, quantity, and handling requirements
- Accurately pack, seal, and label prescription medication packages for distribution to veteran patients
- Insert required documentation, patient information inserts, and auxiliary materials into outgoing packages
- Verify package accuracy and completeness prior to sealing and labeling
- Apply shipping labels and ensure correct address and routing information on all outgoing packages
- Sort and stage completed packages for carrier pickup and distribution
Equipment Operation
- Operate automated packaging equipment and conveyor systems used in the CMOP production environment
- Operate manual packaging tools and equipment as required
- Use scanning devices and barcode readers to track and verify prescription packages throughout the packaging and shipping process
- Report equipment malfunctions or operational issues to supervisory staff promptly
Inventory & Runner Duties
- Monitor packaging supply levels including boxes, packing materials, tape, inserts, and labels
- Restock packaging supplies at workstations to maintain uninterrupted production flow
- Perform runner duties as assigned, transporting materials, supplies, and completed packages between workstations and departments
- Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing incoming supply shipments
Compliance & Safety
- Handle hazardous materials in compliance with applicable OSHA regulations and facility safety protocols
- Follow all established CMOP Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for packaging and shipping activities
- Maintain strict HIPAA compliance and protect veteran patient information throughout all packaging and distribution activities
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with facility standards
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Basic computer skills and ability to operate scanning devices and facility information systems
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite at a basic level
- Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions accurately
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in a production environment
Preferred
- Prior experience in a warehouse, packaging, mail order, or pharmaceutical distribution environment
- Familiarity with automated packaging or conveyor systems
- Experience working in a VA, federal, or government-contracted facility
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to push and pull carts or equipment weighing up to 150 pounds
- Ability to stand and remain on feet for 8 to 10 hours per shift
- Ability to perform repetitive hand, arm, and body motions associated with packaging and shipping tasks
- Ability to work flexible shifts as required by operational needs