Become a Lead Pharmacy Technician with the Alaska VA
Are you an experienced pharmacy professional looking to step into a leadership role? The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Lead Pharmacy Technician for the Alaska VA Healthcare System in Anchorage. This is a unique opportunity to lead a team, improve pharmacy workflows, and directly support the health and well-being of America's veterans.
About the Alaska VA Healthcare System
The Alaska VA Healthcare System (AVAHS) is a critical provider of medical services for veterans throughout the state. Based in Anchorage, the facility provides comprehensive care in an environment that balances modern clinical excellence with the rugged, adventurous lifestyle that only Alaska can offer. As part of the "I CARE" (Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, Excellence) culture, you will join a multidisciplinary team dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to provide high-quality care to those who have served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, your role extends beyond standard technical duties. You will act as a bridge between management and technical staff, ensuring that the pharmacy unit operates efficiently and safely. Key responsibilities include:
- Workflow Coordination: Monitoring daily pharmacy volume and making staffing adjustments to eliminate backlogs.
- Team Leadership: Providing technical direction and training for GS-07 technicians, students, and pharmacy residents.
- Quality Improvement: Developing and implementing processes to streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve patient safety.
- Policy Compliance: Maintaining documentation and participating in departmental goal planning to ensure adherence to VA regulations.
- Operational Oversight: Managing the maintenance of pharmacy equipment and automation systems.
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific criteria set forth by the VA:
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Certification | Must hold current PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) certification |
| Education/Experience | Equivalent combination of education and experience at the GS-07 level |
| Language | Proficiency in spoken and written English |
| Security | Must pass background and pre-employment physical exams |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $67,764 to $88,090 per year. Beyond the salary, the VA provides an extensive federal benefits package designed to support both your professional and personal life:
- Paid Leave: Between 37 and 50 days of total paid time off annually.
- Retirement: Access to a traditional federal pension and a 401k-style Thrift Savings Plan with employer matching.
- Insurance: Comprehensive federal health, dental, and life insurance options.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid parental leave and childcare subsidy programs for qualifying employees.
Application Tips
- Use the Required Format: Download the Clinical Resume template provided by the VA. Using this specific document ensures your application passes the initial screening process.
- Be Quantitative: When describing your work experience, include specific dates, the number of staff you led, and the complexity of the tasks you managed.
- Detail is Key: Do not leave gaps in your employment history. Ensure your resume highlights your experience with sterile compounding, pharmacy automation, or controlled substance protocols if applicable.
Joining the Alaska VA as a Lead Pharmacy Technician is more than just a job; it is a commitment to service. If you possess the leadership skills to mentor junior staff and the technical expertise to optimize pharmacy operations, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey with the VA today and help us provide the world-class care our veterans deserve.
Why This Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Matters
Advance your pharmacy career and make a tangible impact on the lives of those who served. Join the Alaska VA Healthcare System as a Lead Pharmacy Technician in Anchorage.
Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Overview
The Alaska VA Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Pharmacy Technician to join our team at the Colonel Mary Louise Rasmuson Campus. This role serves as a key technical leader, overseeing daily pharmacy operations, coordinating staff workflows, and ensuring that our veterans receive the highest standard of pharmaceutical care. You will work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment where your ability to lead, mentor, and organize will directly contribute to our commitment to excellence in veteran health.
Requirements for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Active national certification as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) via the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Willingness to participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Successful completion of a background and security investigation.
- Completion of a 1-2 year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- At least one year of specialized pharmacy experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate the work of at least three pharmacy staff members.
- Comprehensive knowledge of sterile compounding, automation, or controlled substance protocols.
- Proven experience in developing training documentation and orienting new personnel.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases
- ✓Generous paid time off: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension (vesting after 5 years)
- ✓Federal 401K (Thrift Savings Plan) with up to 5% employer match
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Childcare subsidy eligibility for qualifying families
💡 How to Apply Lead Pharmacy Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Pharmacy Technician Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume detailing job duties, hours worked per week, and specific start/end dates.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume Document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all supporting documents (SF-50, certifications, transcripts) before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Clearly list duties performed under each job title to ensure your experience is fully credited.
- Standardized resume: Use the provided Clinical Resume template to ensure your application meets VA requirements.
- Verification: Double-check that your resume explicitly supports the responses provided in your questionnaire.
- Documentation: If you are a current federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this Lead Pharmacy Technician position is GS-08.
Is relocation assistance available?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation assistance is not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Are there specific vaccination requirements?
Yes, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory for all VA healthcare personnel, unless a medical or religious exemption is granted.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this position is onsite at the Colonel Mary Louise Rasmuson Campus in Anchorage, Alaska.
What is the trial period?
All new hires in the VA are required to complete a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
Does the VA require drug testing?
Yes, as a testing-designated position, you will be subject to a urinalysis prior to your official appointment.