Pharmacy and Automation Supervisor

Pharmacy and Automation Supervisor

Department: Pharmacy Services
Location: Washington, DC (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday–Friday (Varies)
Salary Range: $23.41 – $37.46/hour
Code: Non-Union HA2-12 Exempt

About Howard University Hospital

With over 150 years of caring for our community and each other in the Washington, DC area, Howard University Hospital is a nationally recognized institution with a world-renowned reputation for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. As the nation’s only teaching hospital located on the campus of a Historically Black University, we are proud of our rich legacy and commitment to excellence in education, innovation, and service.

We are currently seeking a Pharmacy and Automation Supervisor to join our Pharmacy Services team. This role is ideal for a pharmacy technician with advanced experience in sterile compounding and automation, who thrives in a collaborative and compliance-driven environment.

Position Summary

The Pharmacy and Automation Supervisor serves as the team lead for automated medication distribution systems, including Pyxis, and oversees sterile compounding operations. This role ensures regulatory compliance, manages inventory and controlled substances, supports technology implementation, and provides training and mentorship to pharmacy staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee sterile compounding operations in compliance with USP <797>, USP <800>, Joint Commission, and other regulatory standards.
• Troubleshoot and maintain pharmacy automation equipment; coordinate with vendors for issue resolution.
• Manage Pyxis stations, including inventory optimization, system updates, and security.
• Monitor and investigate controlled substance discrepancies; maintain accurate records.
• Train IV room personnel and pharmacy staff on sterile compounding and automation systems.
• Generate and review Pyxis and Prepack comparison reports; maintain documentation.
• Serve as a technical resource for automated dispensing systems and workflows.
• Support staff training on troubleshooting and reporting issues with pharmacy technologies.
• Collaborate with management to evaluate and implement technology upgrades.
• Assist in testing and implementing new systems; develop training materials and provide post-launch support.
• Participate in software upgrades, enhancements, and bug fixes.
• Oversee user access controls and assist IT with issue resolution.
• Develop and maintain contingency plans for system failures.
• Supervise pharmacy technicians and support staff; provide performance feedback.
• Maintain daily logs and documentation per departmental policy.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Competencies

• Ability to coordinate, supervise, and plan the work of others
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical and medical terminology
• Strong judgment and teamwork skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities
• Proficiency in pharmacy systems (e.g., Pyxis ES, Knowledge Portal, Rx Auditor) and MS Office
• Leadership and customer service skills
• Experience in fast-paced environments

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a healthcare-related field (preferred)
• Graduation from an accredited Pharmacy Technician Training Program (preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of hospital experience with automated distribution systems and sterile compounding
• Working knowledge of USP <795>, <797>, and <800>
• Preferred: Advanced experience in sterile compounding and automation technologies; familiarity with Cerner, Pyxis, Pharmogistics, Carousel technology, and IV preparation software

Licensure & Certification:

• Registered Pharmacy Technician with the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy
• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through PTCB
• PTCB Certificate in Sterile Compounding or equivalent competency to serve as Designated Person for Sterile Compounding

Organizational Expectations

• Adhere to the Health Sciences Compliance Program and HIPAA Privacy Policies
• Maintain confidentiality of patients, families, and staff
• Participate in compliance training and activities
• Promote ethical conduct and regulatory adherence

Working Conditions

• Physical activities include sitting (40%), standing (30%), walking (30%), bending/squatting (15%), climbing (10%), kneeling (5%), twisting (15%)
• May involve lifting/carrying up to 35 lbs and pushing equipment
• Work hours may include days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as needed

What We Offer

• Work-life balance
• Recognition and rewards for professional expertise
• Competitive and comprehensive benefits, including health, disability, vacation, sick leave, and a 403(b)-retirement plan

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

Howard University Hospital requires all external applicants to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to employment. Proof of vaccination may be required, or applicants may elect to be vaccinated at a designated hospital location.