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Va Sterile Processing Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Va Sterile Processing information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VA sterile processing technician?

To thrive as a VA Sterile Processing Technician, you need knowledge of infection control, sterilization techniques, and medical device reprocessing, typically supported by a high school diploma and a Sterile Processing Technician certification (such as CRCST). Familiarity with autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, inventory management systems, and tracking software is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring accuracy and collaborating with healthcare staff. These skills and qualifications are crucial to prevent infections, maintain patient safety, and support efficient healthcare delivery.

What is a VA sterile processing technician?

VA Sterile Processing Technicians are healthcare professionals responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, assembling, and distributing medical instruments and equipment in Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities. Their work ensures that all surgical tools and devices are safe and free from contaminants, helping to prevent infections and support safe patient care. They play a crucial role in the operating room and other medical departments by maintaining strict standards of cleanliness and sterilization. These technicians must follow detailed protocols and often use specialized equipment to perform their duties. Working as a VA Sterile Processing Technician requires attention to detail, knowledge of infection control, and adherence to VA policies.

What is the difference between Va Sterile Processing vs Central Sterile Processing Technician?

AspectVa Sterile ProcessingCentral Sterile Processing Technician
CertificationsCPR, Sterile Processing CertificationCPR, Sterile Processing Certification
Work EnvironmentVeterans Affairs hospitals, clinicsHospitals, surgical centers
Employer & IndustryVeterans Affairs healthcare systemVarious healthcare facilities

Both roles involve sterilizing and processing surgical instruments, requiring similar certifications. Va Sterile Processing technicians work primarily within Veterans Affairs facilities, while Central Sterile Processing Technicians serve a broader range of healthcare settings. The core responsibilities and credentials overlap significantly, but the work environment and employer differ.

What are some common challenges faced by VA sterile processing technicians, and how can new hires effectively manage them?

VA Sterile Processing Technicians often face the challenge of keeping up with a fast-paced workflow while maintaining strict adherence to infection control standards. New hires may initially find it demanding to learn the various types of surgical instruments and complex sterilization procedures required by VA protocols. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with surgical and nursing teams, and seek ongoing training. Leaning on experienced colleagues and utilizing available resources can also help new technicians build confidence and competence in their role.
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Va Sterile Processing jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Va Sterile Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Va Sterile Processing job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution.

Pharmacy Technician - Inpatient

Veterans Health Administration

Madison, WI • On-site, Remote

$54K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Veterans Health Administration rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,004 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Summary
Pharmacy technicians at this grade level are nationally certified by PTCB or ExCPT and can work autonomously, using independent judgement to perform a full range of duties. Pharmacy technicians above the full performance level can mentor and train lower grade technicians in the practice setting. The employee will assist the pharmacist in providing optimal care and timely service in accordance with the mission, vision, and goals of the
William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital.
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Duties
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VA Careers - Pharmacy: https://youtube.com/embed/Fn_ickNBEws
Total Rewards of a Allied Health Professional
FUNCTIONS or SCOPE of ASSIGNED DUTIES
A. General:
  1. Accurately interpret, fills, and prepares prescriptions with appropriate medications and or medical supplies for pharmacist verification.
  2. Maintains work areas in a clean and orderly condition by assuring that all stock and equipment are in assigned places and all shelves and counters are free of dust and debris to create operational work areas, including routine return of medication stock containers to appropriate storage, restocking of shelves, acquisition, storage, and replacement of computer labels, paper and toner cartridges.
  3. Assures drugs and supplies are appropriately stored and secured according to USP and VA guidelines, including the storage of
    high-risk, look a-like sound a-like, hazardous, controlled substances, corrosive chemical, flammable liquids, and refrigerated items.
  4. Receives, checks, rotates, and places in stock all items received from pharmacy procurement section and identifies and reconciles any discrepancies to assure correct items have been received.
  5. Utilizes automation dispensing equipment available to the pharmacy staff following all safety and QA procedures. Reports automation malfunctions timely the supervisor as appropriate
  6. Records expiration dates in the automatic prescription dispensing system upon receipt.
  7. Perform monthly inspections to assigned areas to ensure proper storage of medications and soon to expired drugs are removed. Completes inspection reports in compliance with regulatory requirements.

B. Controlled Substance Activities: These functions will be supported in the absence of the controlled substance technician (i.e., after hours, weekends, and leave) as assigned.
  1. Accurately interpret, fills, and readies prescriptions with appropriate medications for pharmacist verification.
  2. Appropriately restocks controlled substances items in automated secured cabinets (i.e., Pyxis) in pharmacy or throughout medical
    center, as assigned.
  3. Documents all controlled substance related transactions as indicated by VA and DEA guidelines.
  4. Assures that inventory counts are correct at the time of restocking.
  5. Ensures that proper handoff occurs when receiving or delivering controlled substances, assuring that at all times these medications are never left unsecured.
  6. Reports unresolvable discrepancies to immediate area supervisor for resolution. Assist in investigating, witnessing, and resolving
    discrepancies.

C. Sterile Product Compounding
  1. Follows USP 795/797/800 for the compounding of all sterile preparations, including ophthalmic, cardioplegic, TPN, hazardous, large & small volume IV solutions, PCAs, etc. Manufactures uncomplicated and/or complicated parenteral admixtures to be delivered in the form of large volume, small volume, infusion syringe or other as required.
  2. Correctly interprets physician orders, selects, and measures appropriate ingredients, mixes ingredients in a safe and effective manner, inspects the final product for accuracy, suitability, and elegance, labels the product, maintains records of the manufacturing process, and supplies the product for pharmacist verification and delivery.
  3. Performs accurate product selection, dosage calculations and compounding of agents utilizing package literature, written procedural guidelines.
  4. Uses standard protocols to determine an accurate expiration date for each batch prepared. Understands specific handling considerations for storage, distribution, and disposal of medications.
  5. Stocking and maintaining the Pharmacy Service preparation area(s), reviewing anticipated inventory needs and notifying the procurement technician in a timely manner of products required.
  6. Working knowledge of position specific equipment including vertical and horizontal laminar flow hoods and all disposable supplies needed to compound sterile products. Technical working knowledge of equipment and supplies used in compounding sterile products including but not limited to admixing pumps,
    needles, syringes, and various compounding supplies, etc.

Work Schedule: Rotating Shifts
Compressed/Flexible:N/A
Retirement: Traditional federal pension (5 years vesting) and federal 401K with up to 5% in contributions by VA
Insurance: Federal health/vision/dental/term life/long-term care (many federal insurance programs can be carried into retirement)
Telework: N/A
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 02837F
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
  • All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
  • Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
  • Subject to background/security investigation.
  • Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment.
  • Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
  • Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement.

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
  • your performance and conduct;
  • the needs and interests of the agency;
  • whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
  • whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
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.
English Language Proficiency: Pharmacy Technician candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English to be appointed as authorized by38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
Certification: The employee must pass a national certification exam and hold an active national certification through either:(a) PTCB as a CPhT.OR,(b) NHA as a ExCPT.
A COPY OF YOUR CERTIFICATION MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH YOUR APPLICATION.
Assignments: Pharmacy technicians at this level are nationally certified and can work autonomously using independent judgement to perform a full range of duties. These pharmacy technicians mentor and train lower graded pharmacy technicians in the practice setting. They assist advanced/ specialized pharmacy technicians and participate in performance improvement initiatives. At this level, pharmacy technicians use independent judgement to perform the full range of duties in the pharmacy. They also function as staff pharmacy technicians in various locations of the pharmacy, including pharmacy contact centers and other non-traditional pharmacy locations, with minimal oversight.
May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements listed above, you must meet the following:
GS-7 Pharmacy Technician Grade Determinations:
Experience. Candidates must possess one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-6). One year of experience as a Certified Pharmacy Technician.
Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA):GS-6
1.
Knowledge of Federal and state laws related to pharmacy practice.
2. Knowledge of preparation, storage and distribution of medication products including those requiring special handling and documentation.
3. Ability to use pharmacy information systems or operate pharmacy dispensing equipment.
4. Knowledge of basic inventory procedures.
5. Ability to communicate with patients and staff and direct questions to appropriate personnel.
In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs:
1.
Knowledge of pharmacy technician principles, practices, concepts and theories providing for sound independent work.
2. Knowledge of the computerized prescription process and input of prescriptions and medication orders or electronic equivalent.
3. Ability to resolve pharmacy/medication issues with other members of the healthcare team, Veterans and external customers.
4. Ability to train developmental pharmacy technicians and students.
5. Ability to dispense medication or sterile products following all regulations, policies and procedures to ensure safe medication distribution.
6. Ability to troubleshoot automated dispensing equipment (ADE) or technology platforms/databases.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
Physical Requirements: The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion, involving standing for prolonged periods of time, lifting or carrying of heavy pharmaceutical supplies or mail bags weighing up to 80 pounds, bending, and stopping.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-7. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS-7.
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: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional information
During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies.
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.
If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement.
Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
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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
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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.
Review our 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.

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About Veterans Health Administration

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The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, serving millions of Veterans each year. Located in Phoenix, AZ, and many other parts of the US, the VHA operates under the Department of Veteran Affairs, as suggested by their official website va.gov. The VHA is dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive care to its veterans. The organization offers a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care, including mental health services, research, and pharmacy benefits.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US