Position Overview
The Certified Pharmacy Technician provides essential pharmaceutical support to licensed pharmacists at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) located in Ladson, SC. In this role, you will assist with the accurate preparation, packaging, labeling, and dispensing of prescription medications for veteran patients, operate pharmacy automation equipment, maintain compliance with all applicable regulations, and contribute to a high-volume, mission-critical pharmacy operation serving veterans across the region.
Key Responsibilities
Pharmaceutical Operations
- Assist licensed pharmacists in the preparation, packaging, and dispensing of prescription medications for veteran patients
- Accurately package and label prescription medications in accordance with CMOP protocols and federal requirements
- Maintain complete and accurate pharmaceutical records and documentation
- Monitor and manage medication inventory, including receiving, stocking, rotating, and reconciling pharmaceutical supplies
- Process prescription orders efficiently and accurately in compliance with CMOP standard operating procedures
- Ensure all dispensed medications are accompanied by correct and complete documentation
Technology & Automation
- Operate pharmacy automation systems including Autofill dispensing systems, Baker Cells, Kalish Cells, and A-frame dispensing equipment
- Monitor automated dispensing processes to verify accuracy and identify discrepancies
- Report equipment malfunctions or issues to supervisory staff promptly
- Utilize pharmacy information systems for prescription processing and documentation
Compliance & Safety
- Adhere to all CMOP Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and federal pharmacy regulations
- Handle, label, and dispose of hazardous materials in compliance with applicable safety regulations
- Maintain strict HIPAA compliance and protect veteran patient information at all times
- Follow all OSHA and facility safety protocols in the pharmacy work environment
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Active pharmacy technician certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (ExCPT)
- Proficiency in basic mathematics including fractions, decimals, and percentages
- Basic computer skills and ability to operate pharmacy information systems
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Preferred
- Prior experience in a mail order or high-volume pharmacy setting
- Familiarity with pharmacy automation equipment including Autofill, Baker Cells, Kalish Cells, or A-frame systems
- Experience working in a VA, federal, or government-contracted pharmacy environment
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 tasks
- Ability to work flexible shifts as required by operational needs