Certified Pharmacy Technician at WVU Medicine - Weirton Medical Center

Role Overview

The Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) at WVU Medicine's Weirton Medical Center plays a vital role in supporting the pharmacy department and ensuring accurate and efficient medication delivery to patients. Under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist, the CPhT performs a variety of tasks, including filling medication orders, preparing intravenous (IV) admixtures, managing inventory, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. This full-time position offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic healthcare setting, contribute to patient care, and advance your career in the pharmacy field.

A Day in the Life of a CPhT

Each day as a Certified Pharmacy Technician brings a mix of responsibilities. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect: * **Medication Preparation:** You'll fill medication orders accurately and efficiently, preparing medications for dispensing to patients. * **IV Admixture Preparation:** You'll prepare sterile IV admixtures under the supervision of a pharmacist, following strict aseptic techniques. * **Inventory Management:** You'll maintain adequate stock levels of medications and supplies, ensuring proper storage and handling. * **Medication Delivery:** You'll deliver medications to nursing stations and other departments, ensuring timely and accurate delivery. * **Customer Service:** You'll interact with healthcare professionals, patients, and visitors, providing excellent customer service and addressing their inquiries. * **Documentation:** You'll maintain accurate records of medication dispensing, inventory, and other pharmacy activities. * **Quality Control:** You'll perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy and integrity of medications and processes. * **Compliance:** You'll adhere to all pharmacy policies, procedures, and regulations. * **Technology Utilization:** You'll use various pharmacy technologies, such as automated dispensing systems and electronic health records, to manage medications and patient information.

Why Weirton Medical Center?

Weirton Medical Center (WMCH), now part of the WVU Medicine family, is a community-focused hospital dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to the residents of Weirton, West Virginia, and the surrounding areas. Joining the WVU Medicine system offers numerous advantages, including: * **Reputation:** WVU Medicine is a renowned healthcare system known for its commitment to excellence in patient care, research, and education. * **Growth Opportunities:** As part of a large and growing organization, you'll have access to numerous career advancement opportunities within WVU Medicine. * **Training and Development:** WVU Medicine provides comprehensive training and development programs to help you enhance your skills and knowledge. * **State-of-the-Art Technology:** WMCH is equipped with advanced technology and resources to support the delivery of high-quality care. * **Community Focus:** WMCH is deeply committed to serving the healthcare needs of the local community. * **Competitive Compensation and Benefits:** WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Weirton, West Virginia offers a blend of small-town charm and access to urban amenities. Located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Weirton provides a cost-effective living environment and easy access to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for cultural and recreational activities.

Career Path for Pharmacy Technicians

The Certified Pharmacy Technician role can be a stepping stone to various career paths within the pharmacy field. Here are a few potential career advancements: * **Lead Pharmacy Technician:** Oversee the daily operations of the pharmacy, supervise other technicians, and ensure compliance with regulations. * **Specialized Pharmacy Technician:** Focus on a specific area of pharmacy, such as sterile compounding, oncology, or pediatrics. * **Pharmacy Technician Educator:** Train and mentor new pharmacy technicians. * **Pharmacist:** With additional education and licensure, you can become a licensed pharmacist.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for a Certified Pharmacy Technician at WVU Medicine - Weirton Medical Center is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. WVU Medicine also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage * **Paid Time Off:** Vacation, sick leave, and holidays * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) with employer matching contributions * **Life Insurance:** Basic and supplemental life insurance options * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability coverage * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Assistance with continuing education expenses * **Employee Assistance Program:** Confidential counseling and support services

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and respected. The organization fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. WVU Medicine encourages employees to develop their skills and knowledge and provides opportunities for career advancement. The values of WVU Medicine include: * **Patient-Centeredness:** Putting the needs of patients first * **Excellence:** Striving for the highest standards of quality and safety * **Integrity:** Conducting business with honesty and transparency * **Respect:** Treating all individuals with dignity and compassion * **Teamwork:** Working together to achieve common goals

How to Apply

To apply for the Certified Pharmacy Technician position at WVU Medicine - Weirton Medical Center, please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and submit your application online. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. **What are the required qualifications for this position?** * High school diploma or equivalent, Pharmacy Technician License through West Virginia Board of Pharmacy, and Nationally Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCB or NHA). 2. **Is previous experience required?** * Previous experience with pharmaceutical products and distribution is preferred but not always required. 3. **What are the main responsibilities of a Certified Pharmacy Technician?** * Filling medication orders, preparing IV admixtures, managing inventory, delivering medications, and maintaining a clean work environment. 4. **What opportunities for advancement are available?** * Potential career paths include Lead Pharmacy Technician, Specialized Pharmacy Technician, Pharmacy Technician Educator, and Pharmacist (with further education). 5. **What is the salary range for this position?** * The salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. A typical range for this region is $30,000-$45,000 annually. 6. **What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?** * Comprehensive health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, and employee assistance program. 7. **What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?** * Supportive, inclusive, and focused on teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 8. **How do I apply for this position?** * Visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and submit your application online. 9. **What is the significance of being nationally certified?** * National certification demonstrates competency and commitment to the pharmacy profession and is often required by employers. 10. **What are the infection control standards I need to follow?** * Adherence to hospital-wide and departmental infection control standards, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper cleaning and disinfection procedures.