Certified Pharmacy Technician-PHTEC

Job Description:

Under the direct supervision of a licensed Pharmacist, the Pharmacy Technician performs technical and clerical tasks to support the safe and efficient preparation, distribution, and management of medications. This safety-sensitive role ensures compliance with California State Board of Pharmacy regulations, federal laws, and organizational policies. In Sacramento's diverse healthcare landscape - including hospitals, retail chains, and county corrections - technicians often work in fast-paced environments, handling everything from prescription processing to inventory control.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prescription Processing and Dispensing:
• Receive, interpret, and enter patient prescription orders into pharmacy software systems.
• Prepare medications by counting, measuring, mixing, packaging, and labeling tablets, capsules, liquids, and sterile compounds (e.g., IV admixtures in hospital settings).
• Verify medication accuracy, including size, strength, and dosage, before handing off to the pharmacist for final review.
• Assist with refill reminders via phone or automated systems to promote patient compliance.
• Customer and Patient Support:
• Greet patients at the counter, answer non-clinical inquiries, and provide basic education on medication storage or side effects (deferring complex questions to pharmacists).
• Process payments, handle insurance claims, and resolve billing discrepancies.
• In retail settings, ring up over-the-counter items and assist with product location.
• Inventory and Supply Management:
• Order, receive, and stock pharmaceuticals, supplies, and equipment, including refrigerated items and controlled substances.
• Conduct cycle counts, monitor expiration dates, and remove outdated stock to maintain inventory accuracy.
• Perform disinfection and maintenance of cleanroom areas, especially in sterile compounding roles.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance:
• Adhere to HIPAA, OSHA, and California pharmacy laws, including proper documentation of all transactions.
• Maintain accurate records for audits, such as narcotic logs or prior authorization forms (e.g., in Blue Shield roles).
• Report discrepancies, errors, or safety concerns promptly.
• Operational Support:
• Operate pharmacy equipment (e.g., pill counters, label printers, SI Baker fillers) and troubleshoot minor issues.
• Assist in training new technicians or interns.
• In specialized settings like corrections (Avid Healthcare) or long-term care (Nexus HR), prepare medication carts for distribution and ensure secure handling.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education and Certification:
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Current, active registration as a Pharmacy Technician with the California State Board of Pharmacy (mandatory; proof required at application).
• National certification (e.g., PTCB or ExCPT) preferred.
• Completion of an accredited pharmacy technician program.
• Experience:
• Minimum 3+ years of experience as a Pharmacy Technician is required.
• Familiarity with medical terminology, basic math for dosing calculations, and pharmacy software (e.g., Epic or QS/1).
• Skills and Abilities:
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy under pressure (e.g., high-volume shifts).
• Excellent customer service, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in computer operations, data entry, Microsoft Office, and inventory databases.
• Knowledge of infection control, sterile techniques, and regulatory compliance.
• Other Requirements:
• Background check, drug screening, and valid driver's license (for delivery roles).
• Immunization records and ability to pass a TB test.
• Bilingual skills (e.g., Spanish) a plus in diverse Sacramento communities.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $ $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person