Advance Your Career as a Controlled Substances Pharmacy Technician at the VA
Are you a detail-oriented pharmacy professional looking to serve those who have served us? The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina, is currently recruiting for a highly specialized Pharmacy Technician to manage controlled substances. This role is pivotal in ensuring the integrity of the VA pharmacy supply chain and supporting our mission to provide elite-level care to our Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
The Controlled Substance Technician is the first line of defense in pharmacy integrity. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Compliance and Inventory: Conducting regular inventories and assisting in monthly inspections to ensure 100% adherence to VHA and OIG directives.
- Procurement: Managing the ordering, storage, and replacement of prescription and non-prescription medications.
- Dispensing Accuracy: Reviewing prescriptions from electronic health records, preparing sterile and non-sterile products, and ensuring technical accuracy for all medication orders.
- Quality Improvement: Participating in pharmacy teams to refine workflows and improve service delivery.
Comparison of Requirements
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory (U.S. Citizen) |
| Experience Level | GS-08 Equivalent |
| Certification | Recommended (PTCB/NHA) |
| Background Check | Mandatory |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate a strong command of pharmacy principles. While the base education requirement is accessible, the role requires a high level of technical competency. Candidates must show proficiency in both spoken and written English and pass a thorough security investigation.
We prioritize candidates who have prior experience in controlled substance handling, as this specialized knowledge is critical for the success of our compliance programs. Proficiency in the use of electronic health records (EHR) is also highly valued.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $70,175 to $91,224 annually. Beyond the salary, VA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health insurance plans that can be carried into retirement.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Federal retirement options.
- Stable, full-time hours.
Application Tips
Your application is your first interview. Ensure your resume reflects specific achievements in pharmacy practice. If you have been involved in medication reconciliation or waste destruction procedures, highlight these clearly. Furthermore, ensure that your supporting documentation—such as professional certifications and SF-50 forms—is uploaded in the correct format.
Joining the VA as a Pharmacy Technician is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of serving Veterans. With competitive pay and the opportunity to work in a facility dedicated to high-standard clinical care, this position offers a stable and meaningful career trajectory. Apply today to help us continue the vital work of the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center.
Why This Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances) Job Matters
Join the elite Pharmacy Service team at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center and play a vital role in safeguarding medication integrity for our nation's Veterans.
Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a diligent Pharmacy Technician to specialize in controlled substance management in Charleston, South Carolina. This role is essential for maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and clinical care. You will work within a specialized pharmacy environment, ensuring the precise handling, inventory, and distribution of medications to support the healthcare needs of those who have served our country.
Requirements for Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Ability to complete an online onboarding process
- Registration with the Selective Service (if born after 12/31/1959)
- Must meet physical requirements per VA Handbook 5019
- Must provide valid, REAL ID-compliant identification
Preferred Qualifications for Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances)
- At least 1 year of experience equivalent to the GS-07 level
- Prior experience managing controlled substances in a pharmacy setting
- Active national certification via PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- âś“Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- âś“Robust retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- âś“Access to ongoing professional development and training
- âś“Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system
đź’ˇ How to Apply Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Pharmacy Technician (Controlled Substances) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy questionnaire.
- Upload your long-form resume, professional certifications, and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Complete the application questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through your applicant dashboard.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions about your previous experience.
- Ensure all uploaded documents, such as DD214s for Veterans' preference, are legible and complete.
- Highlight any direct experience handling controlled substances, as this is a key focus for this role.
- Double-check that your certifications are active and properly documented.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this position?
This technician specializes in the management of controlled substances, including procurement, inventory, dispensing, and destruction, strictly adhering to VHA and OIG policies.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Are there mandatory vaccinations for this role?
Yes, as a Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel position, participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, SC.*
Do I need to be a pharmacy technician to apply?
*A: Yes, this role requires specialized pharmacy knowledge and, for higher levels, national certification.*
How long is the trial period?
*A: All new hires are subject to a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and conduct.*
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." Working at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center means joining a team that values compassion, clinical excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration. We offer a professional environment where your skills contribute directly to the well-being of the Veteran community.