Lead Pharmacy Technician: Career Opportunity at the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to those who have served our nation. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a highly motivated Lead Pharmacy Technician to join the team in Leeds, Massachusetts. This role is perfect for an experienced professional ready to step into a leadership position, manage critical pharmacy workflows, and directly contribute to the well-being of our Veteran community.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, you will serve as a key figure in the pharmacy service. Your responsibilities go beyond basic technical functions; you will be responsible for leading a team of at least three staff members, directing daily operations, and ensuring that pharmacy policies are implemented correctly.
Core Duties Include:
- Team Leadership: Assigning tasks, preparing schedules, and mentoring junior technicians and students.
- Workflow Optimization: Evaluating and coordinating activities to ensure timely medication preparation and distribution.
- Clinical Support: Assisting with controlled substance accountability, triaging patient inquiries, and maintaining compliance with DEA regulations.
- Operational Excellence: Monitoring pharmacy resources, training personnel on new equipment, and serving as a bridge between management and the technical staff.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-08 position, candidates must meet specific federal requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Certification: Hold an active national certification (PTCB/CPhT or NHA/ExCPT).
- Experience: Demonstrate one year of experience at the next lower grade level.
- Proficiency: Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory.
- Compliance: Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Salary and Comparison Table
Compensation for this role is competitive, reflecting the leadership responsibilities and the high level of expertise required.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $78,195 - $101,649 per year |
| Pay Scale | GS-08 |
| Position Type | Permanent, Excepted Service |
| Work Location | Leeds, Massachusetts |
| Telework Eligible | No |
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust benefits package that supports professional development and life-work balance. This includes 13 to 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays annually. You will also have access to comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and the opportunity to work in a technologically advanced clinical environment.
Application Tips
- Use the Right Template: Always use the VA-provided clinical resume document to ensure your application meets the specific format required by the hiring team.
- Be Specific: When describing your leadership experience, include details on how you mentored staff and improved workflow efficiency.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the final hours to submit your application on USAJOBS; ensure all documents, including your SF-50 and certifications, are attached.
This role offers a unique intersection of clinical practice and team management. If you are an experienced pharmacy technician looking to advance your career while honoring America's Veterans, we encourage you to apply. Visit the official USAJOBS listing to begin your application process today.
Why This Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Matters
Advance your career in pharmacy operations while providing world-class care to our nation's Veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Lead Pharmacy Technician to join our healthcare team in Leeds, Massachusetts. In this pivotal role, you will provide expert guidance to pharmacy staff, oversee daily operations, and ensure the seamless delivery of medication services. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a team while utilizing your specialized knowledge to maintain high standards of clinical workflow, quality control, and inventory management in support of those who have served.
Requirements for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Active national pharmacy technician certification (PTCB/CPhT or NHA/ExCPT)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Requirement to undergo urinalysis for drug screening
- Seasonal influenza vaccination compliance
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- At least 3 years of professional pharmacy technician experience
- Minimum of 1 year in a lead or supervisory capacity
- Experience with VA clinical systems (Vista, CPRS) and ScriptPro
- Active state-issued pharmacy technician license
- Proven history of managing workflow, training staff, and inventory procurement
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Generous annual leave accrual (13-26 days per year)
- ✓13 days of paid sick leave annually
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays per year
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement planning options
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Lead Pharmacy Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Pharmacy Technician Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the provided VA link.
- Prepare your full resume and any applicable supporting documents like SF-50 or transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation to the portal.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not assume the recruiter understands your daily tasks without clear descriptions.
- Utilize the provided VA standard resume template for your primary upload.
- Ensure all certifications are active and clearly documented.
- Double-check your application for completeness; missing documents may disqualify you from consideration.
- Monitor your email for status notifications throughout the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Lead Pharmacy Technician at the VA?
You will oversee daily pharmacy operations, lead a team of technicians, coordinate workflow, ensure policy compliance, and handle complex pharmacy tasks including controlled substance management.
Is relocation assistance provided for this role?
No, relocation incentives or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) assistance are not authorized for this position.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an onsite position located in Leeds, Massachusetts, and does not support telework.
What is the trial period for this position?
*A: New appointees to this position are typically required to serve a 1- or 2-year trial period to evaluate their performance and fitness for the role.*
Is influenza vaccination required?
*A: Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment for all VHA health care personnel.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission, rooted in President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have borne the battle, is driven by the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining the VA means becoming part of an organization that prioritizes both patient health and employee well-being through flexible scheduling, professional growth, and meaningful work.