Title 38 and Hybrid Title 38 employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs presently appointed under an Excepted Appointment (appointed without time limit and have at least one (1) year of continuous service) may apply for this vacancy in accordance with the VA and OPM Interchange Agreement, reference VA Handbook 5005, Part III, Appendix C.
Summary
Title 38 and Hybrid Title 38 employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs presently appointed under an Excepted Appointment (appointed without time limit and have at least one (1) year of continuous service) may apply for this vacancy in accordance with the VA and OPM Interchange Agreement, reference VA Handbook 5005, Part III, Appendix C.
This position will be a multifunctional technician and will perform at the full performance level in the Pharmacy. The technician will assist in both outpatient and inpatient Pharmacy areas. Inpatient functions include: packaging unit dose medications utilizing unit dose packaging machine, replenishing stock in automated dispensing machines, conducting routine ward inspections, preparing intravenous admixtures, and delivering medications to inpatient and outpatient clinics. Outpatient functions include: filling and labeling medications for verification by a pharmacist, assisting patients at the pharmacy pick-up window, cleaning and refilling the outpatient automated dispensing machines, and preparing outpatient controlled substances in accordance with facility policy for pharmacist verification. The incumbent will assist with performance improvement activities to improve Pharmacy systems and processes to meet the goals of the service. The incumbent will also demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to complete the duties of the position, and maintains the confidentiality of patient/employee information, electronic and printed. Will perform other duties as assigned by management.
Work Schedule: Monday-Thursday 8:00pm to 7:30am, Friday-Sunday 8:00pm to 8:30am. May be required to work extra week-ends and holidays during periods of staffing shortages. Tour of duty can be changed based on agency's needs. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required
Designated and/or random drug testing may be required
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959
You may be required to serve a probationary period
Subject to a background/security investigation
Must be proficient in written and spoken English
Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process
CV or Resume (please ensure that you include the month and year for each period of employment. If Federal employment, also include the grade level of the position).
VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations.
Online Questionnaire.
Copy of transcripts (unofficial are sufficient).
Copy of current license (if applicable).
Copy of latest (non-award) SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action. Applicants will be rated ineligible if not submitted.
Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 10/18/2019. 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).
English Language Proficiency. Pharmacy technicians appointed to direct patient care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English.
Preferred Experience: Experience working as a certified pharmacy technician.
Grade Determinations:
GS-6 PHARMACY TECHNICIAN Experience. One year experience at the next lower level (GS-5), and must fully meet the KSAs at the next lower level (GS-5). Ability to operate and care for automated dispensing devices and equipment. Knowledge of, and ability to perform, aseptic technique. Knowledge of basic inventory procedures. Knowledge of pharmacy information systems.). In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs and the potential to acquire the assignment specific KSAs designated by an asterisk: 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 PHARMACY TECHNICIAN QUALIFICATION STANDARDS.
The full performance level is GS-5. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-6.
Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting (15-30 pounds); moderate carrying (15-30 pounds); use of fingers; both hands required; walking (4 hours); standing (4 hours); both legs required; near vision correctable at 13" to 16" to Jaeger 1 to 4: far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 and to 20/40 in the other; ability to distinguish basis colors; ability to distinguish shades of colors; mental and emotional stability.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status.
VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
If you are unable to apply online view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, résumé, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
NOTE: The Professional Standards Board (a peer-review group) will review the selected candidate's education and experience and recommend the grade and salary at which the candidate will be placed. For internal selectees eligible for promotion, the board will determine grade and HR will determine step in accordance with policy.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
CV or Resume (please ensure that you include the month and year for each period of employment. If Federal employment, also include the grade level of the position).
VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations. Available at https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf . This is a required form and must be submitted. Applicants who fail to submit will be rated ineligible for consideration. Additionally, applicants who fail to provide a complete and detailed explanation in response to any question (28-37) in which your answer is "Yes" will also be rated ineligible for consideration. This response should be provided on a separate sheet of paper as instructed on the form. VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: http://www.va.gov/vaforms/search_action.asp?FormNo=2850&tkey=&Action=Search.
Online Questionnaire.
Copy of transcripts (unofficial are sufficient).
Copy of current license (if applicable).
Copy of latest (non-award) SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action. Applicants will be rated ineligible if not submitted.
following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
VA-10-2850C PAPER APPLICATION; National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Resume
SF-50
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/18/2019 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10470314.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations where patients receive care or who come into contact with VA patients as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, paid and unpaid, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, students, researchers, volunteers, and trainees who work at these facilities. HCPs that are unable to receive or otherwise decline a flu shot will be expected to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.
Columbia VA Health Care System
6439 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
CV or Resume (please ensure that you include the month and year for each period of employment. If Federal employment, also include the grade level of the position).
VA Form 10-2850c - Application for Associated Health Occupations. Available at https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-2850c-fill.pdf . This is a required form and must be submitted. Applicants who fail to submit will be rated ineligible for consideration. Additionally, applicants who fail to provide a complete and detailed explanation in response to any question (28-37) in which your answer is "Yes" will also be rated ineligible for consideration. This response should be provided on a separate sheet of paper as instructed on the form. VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: http://www.va.gov/vaforms/search_action.asp?FormNo=2850&tkey=&Action=Search.
Online Questionnaire.
Copy of transcripts (unofficial are sufficient).
Copy of current license (if applicable).
Copy of latest (non-award) SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action. Applicants will be rated ineligible if not submitted.
following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
Cover Letter
VA-10-2850C PAPER APPLICATION; National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Resume
SF-50
Transcript
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/18/2019 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10470314.
To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations where patients receive care or who come into contact with VA patients as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, paid and unpaid, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, students, researchers, volunteers, and trainees who work at these facilities. HCPs that are unable to receive or otherwise decline a flu shot will be expected to wear a face mask throughout the influenza season.
Columbia VA Health Care System
6439 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
US
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
