Launch Your Federal Career: Health Technician (Medication Technician) in Florence, Colorado
Are you looking for a career that combines high-level healthcare expertise with the critical mission of public safety? The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is currently seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Medication Technician) to work in Florence, Colorado. This role is essential to maintaining the health and safety of the inmate population, providing an excellent opportunity for professionals with a background in clinical support.
Job Responsibilities
The Health Technician plays a pivotal role in the facility’s Health Services Unit. Key duties include:
- Medication Distribution: Administering medications via oral, topical, nebulized, and insulin routes while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Pharmacy Support: Assisting the pharmacist with inventory control, entry of physician orders into computerized systems, and preparing medications for review.
- Patient Care: Monitoring inmate physical and emotional conditions, documenting reactions, and reporting changes to medical staff.
- Correctional Security: Acting as a correctional officer first, ensuring the security of the facility and the safety of all staff and inmates during all medical interactions.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered for this GS-06 level position:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Certification: Must hold a completed program certificate in one of the following: Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Practical/Vocational Nursing, or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the lower grade level.
- Background: Ability to pass comprehensive security checks and drug screenings.
Salary and Comparison Table
The position offers a structured federal pay scale consistent with the GL grade. Below is a quick overview of what to expect regarding the compensation structure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Health Technician (Medication Technician) |
| Annual Salary Range | $54,375 - $68,357 |
| Location | Florence, Colorado |
| Grade Level | GL-06 |
| Agency | Federal Bureau of Prisons |
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive salary with annual adjustments.
- Federal health insurance plans (FEHB).
- Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous leave policies (annual and sick leave).
- Professional training at the Glynco, Georgia training center.
Application Tips
- Resume Formatting: Keep your resume to a maximum of 2 pages. Use clear, sans-serif fonts.
- Document Everything: Ensure all certifications, transcripts, and service history documents are uploaded as requested.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly list start and end dates (MM/YYYY) and the number of hours worked per week to ensure you get full credit for your experience.
- Follow Instructions: Avoid using special characters in your file names, as this can cause document errors in the automated system.
Can I work from home?
No, this position is onsite within a correctional institution, making telework unavailable.
When will I hear back?
Applicants are generally notified of their status throughout the process, with an expected final job offer timeline within 80 days of the closing date.
The role of a Health Technician with the Bureau of Prisons is a unique opportunity to use your medical skills in a high-stakes, rewarding environment. If you are qualified and ready to serve your country, prepare your documents and apply via USAJOBS before the vacancy closes.
Why This Health Technician (Medication Technician) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in federal healthcare where your skills directly impact public safety and inmate rehabilitation within the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Health Technician (Medication Technician) Job Overview
The Federal Bureau of Prisons is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Medication Technician) to join the team in Florence, Colorado. In this essential role, you will be responsible for the safe administration of medications, maintaining precise pharmacy inventories, and supporting clinical staff in a high-security environment. This position combines your healthcare expertise with a unique correctional mission, ensuring that health services are delivered consistently and safely to the inmate population.
Requirements for Health Technician (Medication Technician)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Completion of a certified program: Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Vocational/Practical Nursing, or EMT
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
- Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation, physical, and drug screening
- Must be under the age of 37 at time of appointment (with some exceptions for veteran preference)
- Successful completion of a three-week training course in Glynco, Georgia
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Medication Technician)
- Experience in medication administration including oral, topical, and insulin routes
- Proficiency in maintaining accurate inventories of controlled substances
- Experience with computerized pharmacy information systems
- Strong communication skills for interacting with medical staff and inmates
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Competitive salary progression within the GL grade scale
- ✓Professional development and federal training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Medication Technician) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician (Medication Technician) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account and complete your profile.
- Prepare a resume specifically limited to 2 pages.
- Collect proof of certified program completion (Nursing, MA, Pharmacy, or EMT).
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages to avoid disqualification.
- Include the start and end dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Ensure your documentation for your certified program is uploaded at the time of application.
- Proofread your resume to ensure no special characters (%, #, @) are used in file names.
- Clearly address how your experience aligns with the specific duties listed in the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum age for this position?
The maximum entry age for original appointment to this position is 36, though exceptions exist for qualified preference-eligible veterans.
Is a background check required?
Yes, candidates must pass a thorough background investigation, credit check, and drug urinalysis.
What training is required after being hired?
Successful candidates must complete the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course at the facility in Glynco, Georgia.
Is the age limit strict?
Yes, there is an entry-age limit of 36, though there are specific exemptions for preference-eligible veterans.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is an agency within the United States Department of Justice. Its core mission is to protect society by confining offenders in the controlled environments of prisons and community-based facilities that are safe, humane, and cost-efficient. Employees are responsible for the management and care of inmates, ensuring they are prepared for successful reentry into their communities.