Pharmacy Technician (Informatics): Career Opportunities at Tomah VA Medical Center
Are you a detail-oriented pharmacy professional with a passion for technology? The Tomah VA Medical Center is looking for an experienced Pharmacy Technician to join its clinical team. This position serves as an informatics and automation specialist, ensuring that the pharmacy department operates with maximum efficiency to support the health of our nation's Veterans. If you are ready to advance your career within a stable federal environment, this role offers the perfect blend of technical responsibility and mission-driven service.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be the backbone of pharmacy technical operations. Your duties will include:
- Automation Oversight: Managing the maintenance and performance of automated dispensing equipment for inpatient and outpatient sectors.
- Workflow Analysis: Evaluating existing systems to identify bottlenecks and implementing solutions that enhance patient safety and distribution speed.
- Staff Training: Educating pharmacy staff and medical personnel on the correct operation of automated technologies.
- Quality Management: Participating in process action teams to maintain high standards of medication distribution and inventory integrity.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-08 position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Certification: Must hold a valid PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) certification.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level.
- Background: Must pass a security investigation and drug screening.
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is generally required for federal employment.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-08 level with an annual salary range of $59,911 to $77,882. The VA offers regular salary increases and opportunities for step-increases based on performance and qualifications.
Benefits
The federal government offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security.
| Benefit Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Leave | 13-26 days annual leave plus 13 sick days |
| Holidays | 11 Paid Federal Holidays per year |
| Retirement | Traditional pension + 401(k) with up to 5% match |
| Parental Leave | Up to 12 weeks of paid leave |
| Insurance | Health, Vision, Dental, Life, and Long-term care options |
Application Tips
- Focus on Informatics: Highlight any specific experience with automation software (e.g., Pyxis, ScriptPro) in your resume.
- Be Detailed: Federal hiring managers cannot infer experience; explicitly state your roles and the software you have mastered.
- Meet the Deadline: Applications must be submitted by September 22, 2026, to be considered.
If you are a tech-savvy Pharmacy Technician looking for a meaningful career path, the Tomah VA Medical Center is the place to be. Apply today to contribute to the high-quality care that our Veterans deserve.
Why This Pharmacy Technician Job Matters
Elevate your career in pharmacy informatics at the Tomah VA Medical Center, where your technical expertise directly improves the lives of those who served our nation.
Pharmacy Technician Job Overview
The Tomah VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Pharmacy Technician to serve as an Informatics and Automation Specialist. This pivotal role ensures the seamless integration of pharmacy software and automated dispensing systems for both inpatient and outpatient services. You will maintain critical infrastructure, optimize workflow efficiencies, and train staff on advanced pharmacy technologies, all while contributing to a mission-driven environment dedicated to high-quality Veteran care.
Requirements for Pharmacy Technician
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Active national certification via PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT)
- Completion of a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Ability to pass a drug screening and background investigation
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level (or equivalent)
Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacy Technician
- Four or more years of experience in a health system or retail pharmacy
- Hands-on proficiency with pharmacy automation tools like Pyxis, ScriptPro, or Parata
- Demonstrated experience with Oracle Health (Cerner) electronic health records
- Prior background in staff training, management, or lead technician roles
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of annual paid time off (Vacation, Sick, and Federal Holidays)
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Federal pension and 401(k) retirement plans with up to 5% agency match
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Childcare subsidies for eligible employees
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and training
💡 How to Apply Pharmacy Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pharmacy Technician Job
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume highlighting your pharmacy informatics experience.
- Gather supporting documentation, including your PTCB or NHA certification.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire linked in the job posting.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 22, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and referral notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Describe your experience in detail; do not leave room for assumptions by recruiters.
- Quantify your accomplishments: Mention the volume of prescriptions managed or specific automation tools implemented.
- Review your resume: Ensure it covers all required technical and leadership competencies mentioned in the job description.
- Check your status: Log into your USAJobs account periodically to track the progress of your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Pharmacy Technician position?
This role acts as an informatics and automation specialist, focusing on the maintenance, oversight, and workflow optimization of automated dispensing equipment for inpatient and outpatient services.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is a facility-based position requiring on-site presence at the Tomah VA Medical Center.
What certifications are required?
You must hold an active national certification through either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Is there potential for relocation assistance?
*A: No, this position does not offer relocation incentives or permanent change of station (PCS) assistance.*
Do I need a degree to qualify?
*A: While not always required, equivalent combinations of education and experience may be utilized based on VA Qualification Standards.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing care to those who have served is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence. The Tomah VA Medical Center, located in Wisconsin, is a key facility within this network, offering a wide array of services across multiple clinics. Employees here benefit from a supportive environment focused on Whole Health and continuous improvement.