Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

Basic Requirements:

• United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
• Education or Experience: A high school diploma or equivalent; or at least 3 months experience.
• Certification: Certification by the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is required.
• English Language Proficiency: Pharmacy technicians appointed to direct patient care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part.

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
Grade Determinations: GS-6
Experience. One year experience at the next lower level, and must fully meet the Knowledge, Skill, and Ability (KSAs) at the next lower level. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities;

• Ability to solve problems and make recommendations, e.g., troubleshoot operational problems and refer for appropriate action.
• Knowledge of the operation and care of automated equipment.
• Knowledge of, and ability to follow, written instructions for compounding with aseptic technique for hazardous materials such as oncology agents.
• Knowledge, and ability to perform, compounding with aseptic technique for routine sterile products.
• Knowledge of policies and procedures for inventory management in specialized areas such as emergency carts.
• Knowledge of the computerized prescription process demonstrated by the ability to input prescriptions and medication orders.

References: VA Handbook 5005/15 Part II Appendix G28 Dated March 17, 2006.The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6.

Physical Requirements: Work may involve prolonged standing, walking, bending, stooping, transportation of goods from pharmacy to pharmacy, and lifting of weights up to 40 pounds.