Find your calling at Mercy!
Supports and assists the Pharmacist in the preparation, distribution, and inventory control of medication and performs other duties as necessary for the provision of patient-focused pharmacy services. Assists with training of pharmacy technicians, has been trained and is a resource person for dispensing cabinets, helps with floor stock inspections, has an active role in improving workflow. The certified technician will not have supervisory duties over other technicians but will be a resource person for entry-level technicians. The pharmacist will check all medications and preparations before they are dispensed. Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with our mission, values, and Mercy Service Standards. Typical work shifts include 1 evening a week and at least 1 weekend per month on a PRN basis.
Position Details:
Pharmacy Student (PRN)
Location: Mercy Pharmacy – Fenton
Schedule: PRN | Typically 1 evening per week and at least 1 weekend per month
Overview
The Pharmacy Student supports and assists the Pharmacist in the preparation, distribution, and inventory control of medications while providing patient-focused pharmacy services. This role offers hands-on experience in inpatient pharmacy operations and supports workflow improvement, medication safety, and service excellence in alignment with Mercy’s mission, values, and Service Standards.
The Pharmacy Student acts as a resource for pharmacy technicians, assists with training, supports automated dispensing cabinets, and contributes to inventory management and quality assurance activities. All medications and preparations will be checked by a pharmacist prior to dispensing.
Key Responsibilities
Medication Preparation & Distribution
- Prepare medication orders for pharmacist verification by retrieving, counting, measuring, and occasionally mixing medications.
- Accurately fill medication orders in a timely manner.
- Perform accurate calculations for oral, IV, and topical dosage forms.
- Prepare and compound sterile IV medications, including total parenteral nutrition (TPN), using aseptic technique.
- Deliver medications to nursing units after pharmacist verification.
- Prepack medications and process credits and stock.
Inventory & Safety
- Receive, store, secure, and maintain medication inventory.
- Retrieve and process medication credits from patient care areas.
- Check assigned areas for expired or outdated medications.
- Ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained.
- Follow hazardous waste and safety procedures.
- Maintain cleanliness, safety, and sanitization of equipment.
Workflow & Coordination of Services
- Coordinate workflow through timely communication with pharmacists, technicians, nursing staff, and other departments.
- Use sound judgment to prioritize tasks based on patient care needs.
- Assist in other pharmacy areas when additional coverage is needed.
- Take an active role in onboarding and training new pharmacy staff.
Communication & Professional Practice
- Communicate effectively with coworkers and interdisciplinary teams.
- Properly relay information between shifts.
- Answer telephone calls professionally and appropriately.
- Attend departmental meetings as scheduled.
- Maintain confidentiality in accordance with policies and procedures.
Technology & Equipment
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge and use of pharmacy technologies, including:
- IV compounding equipment
- Robotic dispensing systems
- Packaging equipment
- Automated dispensing cabinets
Quality & Continuous Improvement
- Maintain workload records, temperature logs, and other quality assurance documentation.
- Suggest ideas to improve workflow, efficiency, and utilization of staff resources.
- Follow departmental policies and procedures consistently.
Qualifications
Education
- Currently enrolled in an accredited School of Pharmacy
- Must be in 5th year of pharmacy program
Licensure
- Valid Pharmacy Intern or Pharmacy Technician License (as applicable)
- Registered with the State Board of Pharmacy and in good standing
Experience
- Previous pharmacy technician experience preferred, but not required
Why Mercy?
From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.
Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.