Become a Lead Pharmacy Technician with the Amarillo VA
Are you a skilled pharmacy professional looking to elevate your career while making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have defended our country? The Amarillo Veterans Affairs Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Lead Pharmacy Technician (GS-08). This role is more than just a job; it is a vital part of a mission-driven healthcare team providing world-class service to Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, you are the backbone of our outpatient pharmacy operations. Your primary duties include:
- Operations Coordination: Overseeing daily pharmacy workflows and ensuring high-efficiency distribution.
- Leadership: Training new staff, mentoring junior technicians, and resolving complex operational hurdles.
- Compliance: Serving as an expert on DEA regulations and VA policies, specifically regarding controlled substance accountability.
- Clinical Support: Assisting with prescription triaging and managing communication channels to ensure seamless patient care.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Certification: Must hold an active national certification (PTCB or NHA/ExCPT).
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent.
- Screening: Must pass a drug test and background investigation.
Qualifications Comparison
| Requirement Type | Preferred Status | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | Current/Active | Mandatory |
| Pharmacy Automation | Expert/Power User | Familiarity |
| Leadership | Supervisory/Management | 1 year experience |
| VA Experience | High Preference | Not Required |
Salary Overview
This position is graded at GS-08, offering a competitive federal salary ranging from $62,642 to $81,431 per year. This compensation reflects the high level of responsibility, technical expertise, and leadership duties required of the role.
Benefits
Federal employment is renowned for its stability and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Generous leave accrual (up to 50 days of combined leave and holidays).
- Robust retirement options, including a pension and 401K-style plan with matching.
- Affordable federal health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Childcare subsidies and paid parental leave.
Application Tips
- Be Specific: When describing your experience, detail the exact types of medications managed and the specific automation software used (e.g., Pyxis).
- Documentation: Ensure your SF-50 and certifications are clearly labeled and attached.
- Follow Format: Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your application highlights the specific KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) required by the VA.
The Amarillo VA is looking for a leader who values precision, teamwork, and the spirit of service. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to advance your pharmacy career in a setting that values your contributions, apply today. Your expertise will directly enhance the quality of life for our local Veterans.
Why This Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Matters
Advance your pharmacy career with the VA in Amarillo, Texas—where your expertise directly impacts the lives of those who have served our country.
Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Overview
The Amarillo Veterans Affairs Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Lead Pharmacy Technician (GS-08) to coordinate complex outpatient pharmacy operations. This role is perfect for a seasoned pharmacy professional ready to take on a leadership position that balances operational management, staff mentorship, and high-level clinical support. You will serve as a subject matter expert, ensuring compliance with DEA regulations and VHA policies while fostering a collaborative environment for your team.
Requirements for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Active national certification as a Pharmacy Technician (PTCB or NHA/ExCPT)
- Minimum of 1 year of experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Subject to pre-employment drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Completion of seasonal influenza vaccination
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Pharmacy Technician
- Prior experience within the Department of Veterans Affairs
- Technical proficiency with pharmacy automation systems like ScriptPro and Pyxis
- Experience in an outpatient pharmacy setting
- Proven background in leadership or team management
- Specialized experience in controlled substance management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (Annual leave, sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401K (TSP) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Childcare subsidy program 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 account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare your long-form resume and supporting documents (SF-50, certifications, etc.).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 4, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume highlights specific, quantifiable experience equivalent to the GS-07 level.
- Clearly document your work with pharmacy automation and controlled substance oversight.
- Double-check that all required documents, including proof of certification, are attached to avoid disqualification.
- Use the 'Build/Upload Resume' feature on USAJOBS to ensure your experience is formatted for federal HR review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance offered for this role?
No, relocation incentives or permanent change of station (PCS) assistance are not authorized for this position.
Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Amarillo, Texas, and is not eligible for telework.
What is the work schedule?
*A: The role involves a Monday-Friday schedule with rotating shifts between 8:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., as well as rotating holidays.*
Is there a trial period?
*A: Yes, successful candidates will serve a 1-2 year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed 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." Working at the Amarillo VA offers the unique opportunity to practice pharmacy in a supportive, community-oriented environment, combining the resources of a large federal agency with the charm of a city with a low cost of living and no state income tax.