Advance Your Pharmacy Career: Clinical Pharmacy Technician at the VA
Are you a skilled pharmacy technician looking for a role that combines clinical expertise with a meaningful mission? The VA Central Iowa Health Care System is currently hiring a Clinical Pharmacy Technician to support our healthcare team in Des Moines. This role is a unique opportunity to work within a prestigious federal healthcare organization, ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality, comprehensive care they deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Pharmacy Technician, your work extends beyond traditional technical duties. You will be an integral part of the clinical team, working under the guidance of clinical pharmacists. Responsibilities include:
- Clinical Support: Assisting with anticoagulation clinic flow and clinical consultations.
- Patient Care: Conducting medication history reviews and providing supplemental education to Veterans.
- Operational Duties: Managing prescription triage, electronic health record entries, and identifying poly-pharmacy situations.
- Collaboration: Communicating effectively with providers, nursing personnel, and pharmacists to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-8 position, you must meet several key criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Certification: You must hold an active PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) certification.
- Experience: Candidates must possess at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Testing: Willingness to undergo a drug screen and background check.
Comparison of Benefits
| Benefit Type | Federal Offering | Private Sector Variation |
|---|---|---|
| Paid Leave | 37-50 Days Combined | Varies widely (typically less) |
| Retirement | Pension + 401K Match | Usually 401K only |
| Parental Leave | 12 Weeks Paid | Often unpaid or limited |
| Insurance | Comprehensive Federal Plans | High premium/limited options |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-8 grade level, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $61,186 to $79,538. In addition to base pay, federal employees benefit from automatic step increases and generous performance-based recognition.
Application Tips
- Highlight Your Experience: Use specific examples in your resume regarding clinical pharmacy experience.
- Check Your Docs: Ensure your certification and transcripts are attached to your application package.
- Prepare for the Questionnaire: The online assessment is a critical part of the process—take your time to answer honestly and accurately.
- Reach Out: If you encounter issues, don't hesitate to contact the provided agency HR representative.
Joining the VA Central Iowa Health Care System as a Clinical Pharmacy Technician is more than just a job; it is a way to serve those who have sacrificed so much for our country. With competitive compensation, unparalleled benefits, and a chance to perform high-level clinical work, this position is a premier choice for career-minded pharmacy professionals. Apply today to start your journey.
Why This Pharmacy Technician - Clinical Job Matters
Join the VA Central Iowa Health Care System as a Clinical Pharmacy Technician and provide essential, life-changing support to the brave men and women who have served our nation.
Pharmacy Technician - Clinical Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Clinical Pharmacy Technician to join our team in Des Moines, Iowa. This role is pivotal in ensuring our Veterans receive high-quality, compassionate care. You will collaborate with pharmacists to manage clinical operations, conduct medication history reviews, assist with anticoagulation clinic workflows, and provide vital patient education. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and patient safety within a supportive, mission-driven environment, this is an ideal opportunity to advance your career.
Requirements for Pharmacy Technician - Clinical
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Active national pharmacy technician certification (PTCB/CPhT or NHA/ExCPT)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- One year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level
- Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and background/security investigation
- Successful completion of a mandatory drug screening
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacy Technician - Clinical
- Three years of professional experience as a pharmacy technician
- Proficiency with medication order entry and transcription
- Strong communication and professional writing skills
- Experience using CPRS or Cerner electronic health record systems
- Demonstrated ability to manage self-directed workflows effectively
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular pay increases
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave annually
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months
- ✓Child care subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with 5% employer match
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance options
💡 How to Apply Pharmacy Technician - Clinical Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pharmacy Technician - Clinical Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a long-form resume or CV detailing your relevant pharmacy experience.
- Gather your active national pharmacy technician certification credentials.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including certifications and transcripts if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of October 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—detail your experience with medication histories and clinic workflows.
- Ensure your certification is current and clearly documented.
- Double-check that you have attached all required documents, including your CV and any relevant SF-50 forms.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing date approaches.
- Use the KSA (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) section to highlight your professional accomplishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Des Moines, Iowa, and is not eligible for telework.
What certification is required for this role?
Applicants must hold an active national certification as a CPhT through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or as an ExCPT through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Can I qualify with education alone?
This position requires one year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 level. Please review the full announcement for details on qualifying combinations of education and experience.
What is the trial period for this job?
You will serve a 1 to 2-year trial period to evaluate your fitness for federal service.
Is there relocation assistance?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." The VA Central Iowa Health Care System serves as a vital network, providing acute medicine, surgery, behavioral health, and nursing home care across Des Moines and several Community Based Outreach Clinics. When you join our team, you join a supportive culture dedicated to Whole Health for those who have served.