Sterile Prep Technician 503A - Houston, TX

Empower is a visionary healthcare company committed to providing quality, affordable medication to millions of patients across the nation. We hold the distinguished position of being the largest 503A compounding pharmacy and FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility in the country serving the functional medicine markets.  

What sets us apart is our relentless focus on three core values: People, Quality and Service. Our dedicated team of professionals collaboratively works to break new ground in the fields of manufacturing, distribution and quality control, providing a uniquely integrated approach to healthcare. Leveraging our vertical integration of the pharmaceutical supply chain, state-of-the-art technology, and a commitment to excellence, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in medication accessibility and affordability.  

You're not just starting a job; you're joining a mission. We believe in empowering our team to innovate, grow, and drive real change in the healthcare industry. If you're a forward-thinker who thrives in a fast-paced, transformative environment, Empower is the place for you. Here, you’ll be encouraged to share your ideas, expand your skill set, and contribute to projects that genuinely make a difference. We prioritize the well-being of our team members, and we offer a supportive and engaging workplace where your contributions are not just recognized but celebrated.

Let’s revolutionize healthcare, together. Join us and be a part of something extraordinary.  

At Empower, the role of a Sterile Prep Technician is a cornerstone in our mission to deliver high-quality, innovative medications that enhance the health and well-being of our patients. This position is critical in ensuring the safety and efficacy of our sterile products by meticulously preparing materials, devices, and equipment in a state-of-the-art current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) cleanroom environment. By adhering to rigorous regulations and standard operating procedures (SOPs), you will help maintain our commitment to excellence in service, quality, and innovation.

As a Sterile Prep Technician, you will operate specialized equipment within International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 7 and ISO 8 classified cleanrooms, adhering to Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and United States Pharmacopeia (USP) guidelines. Your responsibilities will include maintaining the sterility of our environment through thorough cleaning and disinfection protocols, utilizing autoclaves for sterilization, and ensuring the accurate weighing and documentation of raw materials. Your precision and attention to detail will be critical in conducting filter integrity tests and preparing work areas and supplies for the manufacturing process.

In this role, your contributions will extend beyond the immediate task at hand. You will play a vital part in the smooth transfer of products to our Inspection and Labeling team, support LEAN manufacturing initiatives such as 6S method, GEMBA, and Kaizen, and coach new hires to uphold our high standards of sterile operations. Your dedication to maintaining an organized and compliant environment will be essential in achieving our goal of producing top-quality medications.

Joining Empower as a Sterile Prep Technician means being part of a dynamic team that values people, quality, service, and innovation. You will be integral to our mission of expanding access to quality, affordable medications and helping people live healthier, happier lives. Your role will not only support our current operations but also contribute to our continuous improvement and the advancement of healthcare.

• Responsible for the preparation of materials, devices, and equipment utilized in the manufacture of sterile products.
• Operates equipment in a cGMP cleanroom environment (ISO 7, ISO 8) in compliance with master batch records while adhering to 21 CFR parts 210/211 and USP <797>/<800> regulations, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and department SOPs. 
• Maintains an ISO classified environment through rigorous cleaning and disinfecting of the cleanroom in accordance with approved procedures. 
• Utilizes an autoclave to perform sterilization of components used in the manufacturing process. 
• Cleans and disinfects all materials, components, and chemical containers utilized in the manufacturing operation. 
• Documents and keeps accurate inventory of all items wiped into the classified areas. 
• Performs accurate weighing of raw materials prior to use in the manufacturing operation. 
• Performs essential calculations and completes thorough documentation. 
• Conducts filter integrity testing of critical filters used during the manufacturing operation. 
• Methodically prepares work area and supplies prior to manufacturing. 
• Performs transfer of products from the cleanroom to the Inspection and Labeling team 
• Becomes trained and qualified in sterile operation via internal training program.     
• Performs ancillary tasks and duties that support the manufacturing process such as, but not limited to organization of components, restocking of devices, and various LEAN manufacturing tasks (6S, GEMBA, Kaizen).
• Ensures all required hygienic practices and grabbing are performed per company policy. 
• Observes and aids in coaching new hires on sterile operations. 
• Performs other duties as assigned to ensure timely execution of the production schedule.  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the responsibilities of the job, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee will work with and be exposed to hazardous substances (drugs) and strong odors such as peracetic acid and is often required to work in a confined, controlled environment for extended periods of time (4 plus hours) and remain in a stationary position for a significant amount of the workday. The employee is frequently required to use their hands and fingers to handle or feel in order to access, input, and retrieve information from the computer and other office productivity devices. Employee must be able to fully gown in aseptic garb for extended periods of time (up to 4-6 hours). The employee is regularly required to move about the office and around the corporate campus. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Employee must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time for consecutive days. Employee must be able to lift up to 30 lbs.

• Previous cGMP or LEAN manufacturing experience preferred. 
• Able to achieve “Gown Qualified” status within two attempts, allowing entry into the cleanroom. 
• Detail-oriented and self-motivated. 
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with a team to achieve goals around safety, quality, and delivery. 
• Ability to carry out detailed written or oral instructions. 
• Must be able to perform fundamental mathematical calculations. 
• Ability to work occasional overtime hours on nights and weekends as needed, to maintain appropriate inventory levels. 

Key Competencies:

• Customer Focus: Ability to build strong customer relationships and deliver customer centric solutions.
• Optimizes Work Processes: Know the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Collaborates: Builds partnerships and works collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Resourcefulness: Secures and deploys resources effectively and efficiently.
• Manages Complexity: Makes sense of complex, high quality, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
• Ensures Accountability: Holds self and other accountable to meet commitment.
• Situational Adaptability: Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match shifting demands of different situations.
• Communicates Effectively: Develops and delivers multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. 
• 1 years previous manufacturing experience preferred. 
• Previous cGMP or LEAN manufacturing experience preferred. 
• Experience with operation of equipment and/or tools preferred.  

• No-Cost Medication: Get your prescribed compounded medications at no cost, ensuring your health without the financial burden.
• Onsite Health & Wellness – IV Therapy Drips: Rejuvenate with complimentary onsite IV Therapy drips, enhancing your well-being and energy levels.
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Options: Choose from three medical plans tailored to your needs, plus options for dental and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Telehealth visits: Access board-certified Doctors anytime, anywhere for you and your family.
• Paid & Volunteer Time Off: Enjoy paid time off for personal pursuits and contribute to causes you care about with volunteer time off.
• Paid Holidays (8 scheduled; 2 floating): Celebrate with eight scheduled holidays and two floating holidays, giving you flexibility and time for personal traditions.
• Life & AD&D Coverage: Secure your and your family's financial future with life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.
• FSA (Flexible Spending Account): Manage healthcare expenses smartly with pre-tax dollars in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• 401K Dollar-for-Dollar Up to 4%: Invest in your future with our 401K plan, featuring a dollar-for-dollar match up to 4%.
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability: Provided at no cost, which replaces 60% of your income if you become disabled for a long period of time.
• Flexible Schedules: Balance work and life seamlessly with our flexible scheduling options.
• Rewards & Recognition Program: Your hard work doesn't go unnoticed – enjoy rewards and recognition beyond your paycheck.

Additional Voluntary Benefits

• Accident Insurance: Pays a lump sum benefit to help cover expenses following an accidental injury.
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance: Enhance your peace of mind with supplemental hospital insurance for unexpected stays.
• Critical Illness: Protect your finances from the expenses of a serious health issue.
• Short-Term Disability: Protect your income during illness or injury with short-term disability coverage.
• Supplemental Life & AD&D: Add an extra layer of financial protection for you and your loved ones with supplemental life and AD&D coverage.
• Legal Services: Access professional legal assistance to address concerns confidently.
• Identity Theft Protection: Safeguard your identity and finances with our identity theft protection benefit.
• Pet Insurance: Care for your furry family members with our pet insurance coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services for a holistic approach to your well-being.