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Compounding Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Pharmacy Technician I

Sterling, VA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

You'll gain valuable experience in sterile compounding, quality control, and pharmacy operations ... High school diploma required; associates degree in chemistry, engineering, or natural sciences ...

Pharmacy Technician

Largo, MD · Hybrid

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Associate's or higher degree in related discipline. * Pharmacy national certification (CPhT) and ... Proficient in teaching professionalism, mathematical calculations, compounding, aseptic techniques ...

Compounding Associate information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Compounding Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compounding Associate, you need a solid understanding of pharmaceutical formulations, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in a science-related field. Familiarity with compounding equipment, safety protocols, and software such as inventory or batch record systems is essential. Strong organizational skills, precision, and teamwork are important soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure the safe, accurate preparation of medications and compliance with regulatory standards in a pharmacy or manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Compounding Associate vs Pharmacy Technician?

AspectCompounding AssociatePharmacy Technician
CertificationsOften requires pharmacy or compounding-specific certificationsCertified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) commonly preferred
Work EnvironmentSpecialized compounding labs or pharmaciesRetail or hospital pharmacy settings
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing customized medications through compoundingDispensing medications, managing prescriptions, customer service

While both roles work within pharmacy settings, a Compounding Associate specializes in preparing customized medications through compounding, requiring specific skills and certifications. A Pharmacy Technician handles broader pharmacy duties, including dispensing and customer interaction. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Compounding Associates, and how can they be managed?

Compounding Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality protocols, managing time efficiently during batch preparations, and accurately following complex formulations. Working in sterile or controlled environments can also require careful attention to detail and proper use of personal protective equipment. These challenges can be managed through thorough training, clear communication with team members, and routinely reviewing standard operating procedures to ensure compliance and minimize errors.

How much do pharmaceutical compounders make?

Pharmaceutical compounders, or compounding associates, typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand environments such as hospitals or compounding pharmacies.

What's the highest paid pharmacy technician?

The highest paid pharmacy technicians typically work in specialized settings such as nuclear pharmacy or in roles requiring advanced certifications, earning salaries above $50,000 annually. Factors like experience, location, and additional certifications can influence salary levels for pharmacy technicians.

What are Compounding Associates?

Compounding Associates are professionals who prepare customized medications by mixing, combining, or altering ingredients according to prescriptions or specifications, typically in a pharmacy or manufacturing environment. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist and ensure that compounded products meet quality and safety standards. Their duties may include measuring ingredients, operating specialized equipment, maintaining clean workspaces, and accurately documenting each batch. Compounding Associates play a critical role in providing patients with medications tailored to their unique needs when commercially available drugs are not suitable.

Can I get a job at a pharmacy with no experience?

Compounding Associate positions at pharmacies often require some knowledge of pharmacy operations and compounding techniques, but many entry-level roles are available to candidates without prior experience. Employers may provide on-the-job training and may require certification or coursework in pharmacy technology or compounding. Having attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols are important for success in this role.

What is the highest paid job in pharmacy?

In pharmacy, the highest paid roles are often pharmacy managers, clinical pharmacy directors, or specialized consultants, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and leadership skills within healthcare or pharmaceutical settings.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Compounding Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Compounding Associate job openings:

Pharmacy Technician I

SOFIE Co.

Sterling, VA • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


SOFIE rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 72 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Description:
Start your pharmacy career in a unique, hands-on role that goes beyond the typical pharmacy setting.
At SOFIE, we specialize in preparing radiopharmaceuticals - life-saving imaging drugs used in hospitals and clinics across the country. As a Pharmacy Technician, you'll work side-by-side with licensed Nuclear Pharmacists in a clean, highly controlled environment to help prepare and distribute these important medications. You'll gain valuable experience in sterile compounding, quality control, and pharmacy operations - all while making a real difference in patient care.
If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to grow in a fast-paced, science-driven workplace, we want to hear from you.
Compensation: $26-28/hr
Overview
The Pharmacy Technician will perform laboratory and pharmacy related duties under the direct supervision of an authorized Nuclear Pharmacist. This job involves working in a clean room as well as occupational exposure to radiation.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform the duties associated with compounding, dispensing, and distribution of FDG and NaF, including data entry with Pinestar for end-of-day reports and daily dose management reports.
  • Ensure compliance with USP <797>, <823>, proposed <825> regulations, or other state pharmacy requirements as applicable, at the site level; maintain personal license in good standing through applicable state laws.
  • Complete cGMP documents as required within SOFIE's Quality Management System.
  • Ensure aseptic operations follow internal procedures (gowning, cleaning/sanitation, sterility, environmental monitoring, etc.), customer requirements, and FDA regulations.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
  • Perform radiation safety duties according to SOFIE's Corporate Radiation Compliance Program and site licensing requirements.
  • Provide quality customer service associated with radiopharmaceuticals to physicians, healthcare workers, customers, etc.:
  • Take orders from customers as applicable by state regulations
  • Follow-up with customer inquiries
  • Document pharmacy/customer complaints and immediately notify pharmacist
  • Perform inventory management:
  • Maintain production/QC/cleaning supply levels as appropriate
  • Perform inventory reporting
  • Perform material acceptance according to SOPs
  • Clean classified and non-classified areas according to SOPs.
  • Perform environmental monitoring of classified areas according to SOPs.
  • Complete cGMP documents as required and assist site and corporate Quality Assurance as required.
  • Attend internal meetings as required.
  • Other assigned duties as required.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma required; associates degree in chemistry, engineering, or natural sciences preferred. (As applicable to state laws).
  • Pharmacy Technician Licensure or Certification as required by state law.
  • Experience with sterile compounding and aseptic operations preferred.
  • Efficient in the use of MS Office Suite required.
  • Ability to work various shifts and weekends required.
  • Ability to be detail-oriented, accountable, patient, organized, and work in a team environment required.
  • Ability to communicate professionally with colleagues and customers, have excellent attention to detail, and be dependable and responsible in a fast-paced, highly technical environment required.
  • Ability to lift ~50 lbs. required.
  • Up to 5% travel required.