Advance Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician with the VA
Are you a dedicated healthcare professional looking to make a difference? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is actively recruiting skilled Pharmacy Technicians for our West Haven, Connecticut facility. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a mission-driven organization that prioritizes the health and well-being of those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Pharmacy Technician, you are a vital link in the pharmaceutical care chain. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Medication Preparation: Accurately counting, pouring, weighing, and measuring medications.
- Compounding: Preparing complex oral and intravenous medications.
- Clinical Support: Assisting pharmacists in patient profile management and responding to healthcare team requests.
- Inventory Control: Maintaining stock levels and managing pharmacy technology.
- Mentorship: Training developmental technicians and students to foster professional growth within the team.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet specific federal standards:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in English.
- Active national certification (PTCB or NHA).
- Ability to pass a drug test and physical examination.
- Commitment to the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Pharmacy Technician |
| Salary Range | $61,629 - $80,119 |
| Location | West Haven, CT |
| Employment Type | Permanent, Full-Time |
Why Join the VA?
Working for the federal government offers unique stability and a comprehensive benefit package. Employees enjoy significant paid leave, robust retirement options, and the opportunity to work in a technologically advanced environment that supports both clinical excellence and professional development.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Use your resume to map your experience directly to the job requirements.
- Documentation is Key: Have your certification, transcripts, and any applicable DD-214 forms ready to upload.
- Follow Deadlines: Ensure your application is submitted well before the closing date.
If you are ready to combine your technical pharmacy skills with a mission of service, the VA in West Haven is the perfect next step. We encourage qualified candidates to review the full requirements and submit their application to become part of our elite healthcare team.
Why This Pharmacy Technician Job Matters
Advance your pharmacy career with the Veterans Health Administration in West Haven—where your expertise directly impacts the lives of those who served our nation.
Pharmacy Technician Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated and skilled Pharmacy Technicians to join our clinical team in West Haven, CT. In this pivotal role, you will perform essential medication management tasks, ranging from compounding and sterile product preparation to inventory maintenance and patient consultation support. You will work in a collaborative environment where autonomous judgment and specialized knowledge are highly valued, ensuring that our Veterans receive safe, accurate, and timely pharmaceutical care.
Requirements for Pharmacy Technician
- U.S. Citizenship (unless no qualified citizens are available).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening.
- Background and security investigation clearance.
- Must maintain active national certification (PTCB/CPhT or NHA/ExCPT).
- Completion of a 1 or 2-year trial period.
- Compliance with annual seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacy Technician
- Proven experience in a hospital pharmacy setting.
- Expertise in automation technology, including automated dispensing equipment (ADE).
- Strong proficiency in sterile compounding procedures.
- Advanced knowledge of handling and documentation of controlled substances.
- Ability to mentor and train developmental pharmacy technicians and students.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
- ✓Flexible scheduling options where applicable
💡 How to Apply Pharmacy Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pharmacy Technician Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume highlighting your pharmacy experience.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application and all supporting documents (transcripts, certifications, etc.) by the deadline.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation notices.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
- Include both paid and relevant volunteer pharmacy experience to demonstrate your competencies.
- Ensure your certification is current and clearly documented in your submission.
- Verify your eligibility for Veterans' Preference and attach the necessary DD-214 documentation if applicable.
- Double-check that your license and transcripts are legible and attached before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The pharmacy technician supports the clinical care of Veterans by preparing, compounding, and dispensing medications under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position at the West Haven, CT facility.
What happens after I submit my application?
Your application will be reviewed for eligibility, and if qualified, you may be referred for an interview. You can track your status in your online portal.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We operate under the core values of I CARE: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Working at the VA provides more than just a job; it offers a career path where your daily efforts contribute to the "Lincoln Promise" of caring for our nation’s Veterans and their families.
External Resources
- ↗ USAJobs Portal
- ↗ VA Qualification Standards
- ↗ VA Careers Website
- ↗ Application Portal
- ↗ Application Status
- ↗ YouTube Video - VA Careers Pharmacy
- ↗ Department of Education Accreditation
- ↗ Foreign Qualifications Recognition
- ↗ Form I-9 Acceptable Documents
- ↗ Application Questionnaire Preview
- ↗ VA Benefits Information
- ↗ Email Agency Contact
