Pharmacy Technician/ Pharmacy Aid Job

Vacancy No. IHS-25-WR-12667041-ESEP/MP Department Indian Health Service
Salary $43,894.00 to $79,883.00 Grade 3 to 6
Perm/Temp Temporary FT/PT Part-time
Open Date 7/25/2025 Close Date 12/31/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Status Candidates
Locations:
Fort Hall, IDSalem, ORWarm Springs, ORNespelem, WA


Summary

Work is to help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals. Certification and license required for GS-04, GS-05 GS-06. For GS-03 grade, you can obtain required certification and license after hire date.

**This position is being re-advertised to solicit additional applications. Applicants who applied previously need not reapply unless submitting updated and/or missing information.**

Duties

This position is being re-advertised to solicit additional candidates. Applicants who have already applied need not reapply unless to update their application.

If incumbent is hired at the GS-3 level, the selected candidate gains experience toward the GS-4, GS-5, or GS-6 to perform the duties listed below.

  • Help patients by greeting them in person or by telephone to answer questions or respond to requests and prioritizing if inquiry should be referred to a Pharmacist.
  • Fill and dispense prescriptions as delegated by Pharmacists. Assists the pharmacist in patient care activities. Performs the technical processes entailed in processing and dispensing medications to patients.
  • Manage the regular program of supply procurement and supply management. This includes assessment of need, preparing purchase orders and requests, placing computer generated or phone orders to prime vendor or wholesalers, receiving drugs into the pharmacy, taking periodic inventories of stock. Performs daily maintenance functions on automated equipment. Runs daily operational and pharmacy reports and performs a variety of quality assurance/quality improvement activities.
  • Function as contact person for on-line point of sales system to include training others or responding to questions in person or verbally about insurance billing Monitors the patient data input into the RPMS Point-of-Sale (POS) system, assures the accuracy of patient data and appropriateness of billing information so that correct billing documents are produced.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

Selectee may be subject to a probationary/trial period
ESEP appointees typically serve a two year trial period
U.S. Citizenship is required
Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959

This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101-630, requiring contact or control over Indian children. Due to this requirement, the agency must ensure that persons hired for these positions have not been found guilty of or pleaded nolo contendere or guilty to certain crimes.

Adherence to the IHS Employee Immunization Policy, SGM 21-04, and the IHS Circular 2016-04 requiring Measles and Rubella, COVID-19, and seasonal influenza immunizations for staff working in Indian Health Service health care facilities OR an exemption request will need to be submitted.

The selected individual is required to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges, including any licensure requirements. If privileges are not obtained or maintained during employment, the employee will be subject to adverse actions, up to and including removal from Federal service.

On-call hours or standby duty may be required.

Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/.

You will need to set up direct deposit so we can pay you.

Background Investigation: If you are selected for this vacancy, you must undergo a pre-employment fingerprint check and background investigation. Fingerprint results and background investigation documentation must be cleared prior to hire. After you begin your employment, your continued employment is contingent upon the outcome of a complete background investigation as determined by the sensitivity level of your position. The investigation must find that you are suitable for Federal employment in your position. If you are found not suitable, you will be terminated after you begin work. If you make a false statement in any part of your application, you may not be hired; you may be fired after you begin work; or subject to possible criminal charges. You may be subject to a credit check as a part of the background investigation process.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, your resume must state sufficient experience and/or education, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are applying.

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; religious; spiritual; community; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer and part time experience. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Specialized Experience for Positions at GS-4 and above: Qualifying specialized experience may have been gained in hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, or in pharmaceutical firms or laboratories. Experience must have provided a basic knowledge of:

  • Pharmaceutical nomenclature.
  • Characteristics, strengths, and dosage forms of pharmaceuticals.
  • Pharmaceutical systems of weights and measures; and the
  • Variety of procedures and techniques involved in the care, storage, repackaging, bulk compounding, and distribution of pharmaceuticals.
In addition, to the Basic Requirements, you must also meet the Minimum Qualifications, Conditions of Employment and Selective Placemetn Factors stated below-

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR GRADE GS-03:
  • Your resume must demonstrate at least six (6) months of General Experience.
  • General Experience is (l) Any type of work that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work of the position, or (2) experience that provided a familiarity with the subject matter or processes of the broad subject area of the occupation. Examples of work at this level include clerical work in medical settings such as verifying accuracy of patient information, enter codes or other information into computers or enter information into databases or software programs or enter patient or treatment data into computers and interacting with customers in person to provide information of service.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION FOR GRADE GS-04:
  • Your resume must demonstrate at least six (6) months of general experience and six (6) months of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector. This experience is related to the work of the position and equivalent to at least the GS-03 level in the Federal service.
  • Specialized experience is based upon the Individual Occupational Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians:
  • General experience is based upon general schedule qualifications standards: (l) Any type of work that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work of the position, or (2) experience that provided a familiarity with the subject matter or processes of the broad subject area of the occupation. Examples of work at this level include clerical work in medical settings such as verifying accuracy of patient information, enter codes or other information into computers or enter information into databases or software programs or enter patient or treatment data into computers and interacting with customers in person to provide information of service.
  • OR successfully completed post high school education.
  • OR combination of equivalent combination of education and experience.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION FOR GRADE GS-05:
  • Your resume must demonstrate at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector. This experience is related to the work of the position and equivalent to at least the GS-04 level in the Federal service.
  • Specialized experience is based upon the Individual Occupational Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians:
  • OR successfully completed post high school education
  • OR combination of equivalent combination of education and experience.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR GS-06:
  • Your resume must demonstrate at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector. This experience is related to the work of the position and equivalent to at least the GS-05 level in the Federal service.
  • Specialized experience is based upon the Individual Occupational Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians and Filling prescriptions utilizing automated dispensing equipment; distributing pharmaceuticals; utilizing pharmacy based computer systems; working with insurance claims to bill for pharmaceuticals and resolve any billing issues; and performing pharmaceutical procurement and inventory management
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR for GRADES GS-4/5/6 Grade Level: In addition to the minimum requirements, the following certification is determined to be essential to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.

PTCB - Credentials - Credentials - PTCB
NHA - https://www.nhanow.com/certification/nha-certifications/certified-pharmacy-technician-(cpht)

Selective Placement Factor for GS-04-05:
Do you possess a current and active certification through Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or National Health career Association or similar certification AND an active Pharmacy Technician License or an active state Certified Pharmacy Technician License?

Selective Placement Factor for GS-06
Do you possess a current and active Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Advanced Certification AND certification through Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or National Health career Association or similar certification AND an active Pharmacy Technician License or an active state Certified Pharmacy Technician License?

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENT FOR GS-03 Grades:
Must pass a Certified Technician exam from either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and Obtain an Active Pharmacy Technician License within any U.S. State or U.S. within 18 months of entry on duty?

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENT FOR GS-05 Grades:
Must obtain Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Advanced Certification "or" PTCB Billing and Reimbursement Certificate within 18 months of hire.

Time In Grade
Federal employees in the competitive service are also subject to the Time-In-Grade Requirements: Merit Promotion (status) candidates must have completed one year of service at the next lower grade level. Time-In-Grade provisions do not apply under the Excepted Service Examining Plan (ESEP).

You must meet all qualification requirements within 30 days of the cut-off date or the closing date of the announcement.

Education

Substitution of Education and Training for ExperienceFor GS-3: Successful completion of 1 year of study that included a course in biology, chemistry, or physics.For GS-4: Successful completion of 2 years of study in pharmacy or pharmacy technology that included at least 12 semester hours in courses in the care, storage, distribution, and preparation of pharmaceuticals, and appropriate laboratory work.For GS-5: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree with major study in pharmacy, or that included at least 24 semester hours in pharmacy-related courses.Successful completion of a course for medical technicians, hospital corpsmen, medical service specialists, or hospital training obtained in a training program given by the Armed Forces or the U.S. Maritime Service under close medical and professional supervision is creditable on a month-for-month basis for general experience.Successful completion of pertinent specialized training courses in pharmaceutical and pharmacy practices while serving in the Armed Forces is creditable on a month-for-month basis up to the 1 year of specialized experience required for GS-5.General Information regarding Education

  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience are qualifying for all grade levels and positions for which both education and experience are acceptable.
  • If substituting education for experience or combining education and experience, you must also meet the Conditions of Employment and the Selective Placement Factors listed above.
  • If you are electing to combine education with experience or you are electing to substitute education for experience, you are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed, and grades. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer.

Additional information

Additional selection(s) of candidates may be possible within 240 days from the date the certificate of eligibles was issued for this announcement.

Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. IHS may offer newly-appointed Federal employees credit for their directly related previous non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave.

The position is covered by a bargaining unit at the following locations: Yakima Service Unit and Western Oregon Service Unit.

Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized. At least a one year service agreement will be required.

This position has promotion potential to the GS-06 grade level. Promotion to the next grade level is at management's discretion and is based on your demonstrated ability to perform the higher level duties, the continuing need for the higher level duties, and "Regulatory/Administrative" approval. Promotion to the next higher grade level is not guaranteed and no promise of promotion is implied.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Benefits

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.

Additional selections may be made for similar positions across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) within the local commuting area(s) of the location identified in this announcement. By applying, you agree to have your application shared with interested selecting official(s) at HHS. Clearance of CTAP/ICTAP will be applied for similar positions across HHS.

To determine if you are qualified for this position, a review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against the qualifications as defined in the qualifications section of this vacancy announcement and your responses to the assessment questions.
You will be further evaluated/rated based on the information provided in your resume (your resume must state specific duties that relate to this position) and your responses to the assessment questions to determine your competency in the following.

  • Customer Service (Clerical/Technical)
  • Medications
  • Pharmacy Calculations
  • Pharmacy Quality Improvement
  • Pharmacy Tools and Software
  • Self Management
  • Technical Documentation


You will receive a numeric rating based on your responses to the assessment questionnaires. If after reviewing your resume and responses to the assessment questions, a determination is made that you have overstated your qualifications and or experience, you may lose consideration.

The following links below provide information on how you may be eligible for various hiring authorities. If you are a Veteran, qualified CTAP and ICTAP eligible, or an individual with a disability, please refer to the following links below for additional guidance. CTAP and ICTAP candidates will be eligible for selection priority if it is determined that they have exceeded the minimum qualifications for the position by attaining at least a "well qualified" rating of 85 out of 100. Information about CTAP and ICTAP eligibility is on the Office of Personnel Management's Workforce Restructuring Career Transition website at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/employee-guide-to-career-transition/. CTAP/ICTAP documentation requirements are listed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.
Click here to view vacancy questions: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12667041.

All documents above MUST be received by 11:59 pm (Eastern Standard Time) of the establihse cut-off date or the closing date of, 12/31/2025, to be considered.

Required Documents

Resume: You are highly encouraged to use USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your Resume. If you use your own resume, curriculum vitae, or any other written form you choose then you must describe your job-related qualifications that includes:

  • beginning and ending dates for paid and non-paid work experience, hours worked per week, month and year of employment for each job title listed, annual salary, and description of job duties.
  • Include name and address of employer; supervisor name and telephone number.

Required as applicable for the purposes of specific eligibility and appointment claim(s), and position requirements:
Indian Preference Applicants: If claiming Indian preference, applicants must provide a completed copy of the Form BIA-4432, "Verification of Indian Preference for Employment in the BIA and IHS Only." Indian preference will not be given unless a properly signed and dated form is submitted with your application, including any verification by an authorized Tribal Representative or BIA Official of tribal enrollment records. For detailed instructions, see form BIA-4432. Refer to BIA-4432 link: https://www.bia.gov/sites/default/files/media_document/1076-0160_indian-pref_expires-1.31.25_508%28w.omb%29.pdf. When an Indian Preference candidate possesses Veterans preference the rules regarding Veterans preference apply under ESEP and the applicant must provide documentation in order to receive preference.
Veterans Preference: If claiming Veteran's Preference provide a copy of your DD214 Form (Member 4 copy). To claim 10-Point Veterans Preference, submit a SF-15 Application (http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf) along with the appropriate supporting documentation. For additional information regarding Veterans Preference visit: http://www.fedshirevets.gov.
Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP)/Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): If you are claiming CTAP/ICTAP, follow the instructions below: http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/employee-guide-to-career-transition/ctap_guideline.pdf.
Current or former Federal employee: Include your most recent SF-50 or if Reinstatement eligible include your Career SF-50.
Noncompetitive eligibles: Submit additional documents to prove your eligibility to apply to this vacancy.
Transcripts: You are encouraged to submit copies of transcripts (official or unofficial) although not required at the time of application. You must list your courses including titles, credit hours completed, and grades. Official transcripts will be required after tentative selection and prior to issuing an official job offer.
Licensure, Certifications: Applicants should list their license/certifications on their resume, along with the expiration date, if applicable. Certification of licensure/certification will be required after tentative selection and prior to issuing an official job offer.

You must meet the requirements of the job by 11:59 pm (Eastern Standard Time) of the established cut-off date or the closing date: 12/31/2025
  • The first Cut-off date for receipt/referral of applications to be considered for available vacant positions will be 10 days after the JOA open date.
  • Cut-off dates are established based on the date the human resources office receives management request for a list of eligibles or 10 days after the job announcement opens if a management request was made before job announcement was opened or 10 days after no selection on a certificate of eligibles.
  • Your resume and any documents submitted will be retained for eight months and may be used at any time during this period. After 8 months, you must reapply to this announcement in order to be considered.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package. See required documents below.

  1. Click 'Apply' to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
  2. Follow the prompts to upload your resume and/or supporting documents.
  3. Read all Eligibility questions and respond accordingly. .
  4. Complete the assessment questions.
  5. Verify all required documentation is included in your application package.
The IHS provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the Human Resources Office (Norene Mills, Norene.Mousseau@ihs.gov, and/or 503-414-7738.) The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.

For additional questions please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) found here: http://www.ihs.gov/jobs/index.cfm?module=search&option=faq.

Agency contact information

Norene Mills
Address
Portland Area Indian Health Service
1414 NW Northrup Street Suite 800
Portland, OR 97209
US

Next steps

You can track the progress of your application package via your USAJobs account. You will receive an acknowledgement from USAJobs that your submission was successful once we have received your on-line occupational questionnaire, resume, and any supporting documentation. You will be notified of the status of your application via your USAJobs Account after we conduct a qualification review of your complete application package. You will be contacted if further evaluation or interviews are required. Any exaggeration of your experience, false statements, or attempt to conceal information may disqualify you for employment consideration. We may verify all information you provide in your resume and questionnaire responses, through reference and/or background check, and/or verification of your education. If you are selected, you will be contacted personally by the human resources office posting this announcement.

If all required documentation is not submitted with your application you will lose consideration. It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information and documents entered, uploaded, or faxed are received, legible and accurate. HR will not modify answers submitted by an applicant.

HHS has a critical preparedness and response mission: HHS protects the American people from health threats, researches emerging diseases, and mobilizes public health programs with domestic and international partners. In support of this mission, HHS offers its employees the opportunity to volunteer to become Federal Civilian Detailees and contribute their unique skills through voluntary temporary assignments to humanitarian emergencies or Departmental priorities countering new and emerging health, safety, and security threats.

~ ~ ~ Indian Health Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer ~ ~ ~

Additional Locations

  • Omak, WA
  • Toppenish, WA


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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