When you walk into a pharmacy, the people ensuring everything runs smoothly and helping with your medications are Pharmacy Technicians.
If you’re interested in starting a career in this field, you’re on the right page.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this career, what a Pharmacy Tech is, their work environment, key duties, and essential skills.
We’ll also discuss job outlook, salary potential, and the top reasons why this profession is worth considering. Plus, we’ll break down the three key things you need to start your career.
Lastly, we’ll discuss an approach that could make you job-ready faster, without driving to college and without any student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to assist in preparing and dispensing medications.
They play a crucial role in pharmacies and healthcare facilities by ensuring that prescriptions are accurately filled, maintaining inventory, and providing patient care and support.
This career is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with medications and have strong organizational skills.
Work Environment
With formal training and certification, Pharmacy Technicians usually find employment in various healthcare settings, like –
- Retail Pharmacies
- Hospitals
- Nursing Homes
- Grocery and specialty food retailers
- General merchandise retailers
- Ambulatory healthcare services
Most pharmacy technicians work full-time, and since pharmacies operate around the clock, they may need to work nights or weekends.
Duties of a Pharmacy Technician
The duties of Pharmacy Technicians mainly involve assisting pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, and assisting customers in various healthcare settings.
Here are their key duties:
- They collect information needed to fill prescriptions from customers or healthcare professionals.
- They measure the correct amount of medication for prescriptions.
- They package and label prescriptions to ensure proper identification and usage.
- They organize inventory and notify pharmacists of any shortages of medications or supplies.
- They accept payments for prescriptions and process insurance claims efficiently.
- They enter customer or patient information, including prescription details, into a computer system.
- They answer phone calls from customers and assist as needed.
- They arrange for customers to speak with pharmacists if they have questions about medications or health concerns.
Skills of a Pharmacy Tech
To perform their duties effectively, Pharmacy Techs must possess a combination of technical knowledge, organizational skills, and customer service abilities.
Here are the Top skills of a Pharmacy Tech:
- They must have a strong attention to detail to accurately measure and dispense medications.
- They need excellent communication skills to interact with patients, pharmacists, and insurance representatives.
- They should have proficiency in pharmacy software and electronic health record (EHR) systems to process prescriptions efficiently.
- They require organizational skills to manage inventory and maintain accurate records.
- They need problem-solving abilities to handle insurance claim issues and prescription discrepancies.
- They should possess a solid understanding of medical terminology and drug classifications to assist pharmacists in medication preparation and patient safety.
Job Outlook of Pharmacy Techs
The demand for pharmacy techs is expected to rise as more people rely on prescription medications for their healthcare needs.
As per BLS 2023 data, employment for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Additionally, an estimated 47,400 job openings are expected each year over the decade, driven by industry growth. This strong job outlook makes pharmacy technology a stable and promising career choice.
Salary of Pharmacy Techs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 data, pharmacy technicians earn a median annual salary of $40,300, or approximately $19.37 per hour.
Moreover, among the pharmacy techs, the lowest 10% of earners make less than $32,720 per year ($15.73 per hour), while the top 10% earn over $57,130 annually ($27.47 per hour).
So, if you’re just starting out in this field, you can expect an entry-level salary ranging from $30,000 to $32,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings as you gain experience.
However, the salary of Pharmacy Technicians can largely vary based on your experience level, location, and the workplace setting you work in.
Top 5 Reasons to Start a Pharmacy Tech Career
A career as a pharmacy technician offers a unique blend of healthcare and customer service, making it an attractive option for those who want to work in the medical field without spending years in school.
Here are the top 5 reasons why becoming a pharmacy tech could be a rewarding choice:
#1 Quick Entry into the Healthcare Field
Unlike many other healthcare careers that require years of college education, you could become a pharmacy technician much faster. Some online training programs can be completed in a few months, in a flexible and affordable way to get certified without the burden of student loan debt.
#2 Growing Job Demand
The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and with an aging population and increasing reliance on prescription medications, pharmacy technicians are in high demand.
According to the BLS, employment for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
#3 Stable and Competitive Salary
Pharmacy techs enjoy stable earnings with potential for growth. The median annual salary for pharmacy technicians, as per BLS 2023 data, is $40,300 or $19.37 per hour.
Entry-level pharmacy technicians typically earn between $30,000 and $32,000 per year, while experienced professionals in high-paying settings can make over $57,000 annually. The combination of job security and a solid income makes this career financially rewarding.
#4 Opportunities for Career Advancement
Starting as a pharmacy tech can open doors to even greater career opportunities. With additional certifications or experience, you can advance into specialized pharmacy roles, such as compounding pharmacy technician, chemotherapy technician, or inventory specialist.
Some pharmacy technicians also use this role as a stepping stone to becoming a licensed pharmacist or pursuing other healthcare careers.
#5 Work in Various Settings
Pharmacy technicians have the flexibility to work in different environments, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, and mail-order prescription services.
If you prefer fast-paced environments with direct patient interaction, retail pharmacies may be a great fit. If you enjoy working behind the scenes, hospital or research pharmacy settings might be more appealing.
So, with the demand for pharmacy services continuing to rise, now is a great time to consider this rewarding profession.
3 Things You Need to Start a Pharmacy Tech Career
If you’re looking for a stable and rewarding job in the healthcare industry, starting a career as a pharmacy technician is an excellent choice.
However, to break into this field successfully, you’ll need three essential things: formal training, certification, and hands-on experience.
Let’s explore each of these in detail:
#1 Formal Training
The first step to becoming a pharmacy technician is enrolling in a formal training program, but the type of program you choose can make a significant difference in your journey.
Many people assume that getting a college degree is the best path, but in reality, degree programs come with major drawbacks. They are expensive, often requiring thousands of dollars ($10,000 to $40,000) in tuition.
On top of that, students must bear additional expenses like textbooks, transportation, and housing. Degree programs also take 2 long years to complete, delaying your entry into the workforce. For adults with jobs, families, or other responsibilities, traditional degree programs are often impractical.
A certificate program takes significantly less time, usually a few months, while still providing the necessary knowledge and skills. However, in-person certificate programs also have some challenges.
They still require you to attend classes on a fixed schedule, commute to campus, and juggle coursework with personal and professional commitments.
For those who want a faster and more flexible option, online pharmacy tech training programs could be the best choice.
These programs allow you the freedom to study at your own pace, complete coursework from home, and avoid unnecessary expenses. Additionally, online training is often more affordable, and you won’t have to worry about taking on student loan debt.
In the next section, we’ll talk about a program that could make you job-ready faster without driving to college and without any student loan debt.
#2 Certification
We at Preppy always recommend certification. Many employers, especially hospitals and large pharmacy chains, prefer or even require pharmacy technicians to be certified.
The most recognized certification in the industry is the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Earning the CPhT certification gives you a competitive edge in the job market. It demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge of pharmaceutical laws, drug safety, medication preparation, and pharmacy operations.
To earn the CPhT credential, you’ll typically need to pass the PTCB exam, and a solid training program should prepare you for this exam so you can pass with confidence.
#3 Hands-On Experience
Training and certification are important, but real-world experience is what truly prepares you for a successful career. Employers often look for pharmacy techs who have practical experience handling prescriptions, managing inventory, and working in a pharmacy setting.
One of the best ways to gain experience is through an externship. Externships allow you to work in a real pharmacy, observe professional workflows, and apply what you’ve learned in training. They also help you build confidence and make connections in the industry, which can lead to full-time job offers.
If you’re considering a training program, look for one that includes an externship opportunity. Some online programs offer externships with national pharmacy chains, giving you the hands-on experience you need to stand out in the job market.
So, if you’re ready to start a fast, cost-effective, and rewarding career, choosing the right path can make all the difference.
Now, if you want to start this career faster, here is a better approach – and we call it – The Preppy Approach.
Preppy’s Self-Paced Pharmacy Tech Training Program
Preppy’s self-paced training is ideal for adults balancing jobs, families, or other commitments who want to launch their dream careers faster, at an affordable price, without spending years in school.
Here’s what you can expect from Preppy’s program:
100% Online and Self-Paced
Preppy’s program is designed to be fully online and self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own pace. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who need to balance their studies with other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities.
University Certificate
Upon completing the program, you receive a certificate from a reputed non-profit institution, Texas A&M International University. This university certificate adds significant weight to your credentials, demonstrating that you have undergone quality training.
Affordable Tuition
At just $1,599, Preppy’s self-paced pharmacy tech program is one of the most cost-effective training options available. This affordability makes pharmacy tech training accessible without the risk of student loan debt.
Faster Completion
While traditional degree programs can take up to two years to complete, Preppy’s program could be completed in as little as 2 months. This faster completion time is ideal if you’re eager to start this career without the long wait associated with traditional education paths.
Externship Opportunity
To complement the online coursework, Preppy offers an externship opportunity, so you could gain hands-on experience in a real-world pharmacy setting. Preppy could also arrange the externship close to your location, ensuring convenience.
This practical component is essential for pharmacy techs, allowing you to apply your learning and gain valuable insights into the daily operations in a professional environment.
You Could Become Certification Ready
Preppy’s curriculum is meticulously designed to meet industry standards, so you could become ready for the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification, offered by the PTCB.
This certification is widely recognized and highly sought after in the pharmacy technology field, making it a vital step in a successful career.
Having the CPhT certification in your hand can significantly boost your employability, as it is a credential that employers value highly.
24/7 Support
Preppy goes the extra mile to support you by offering 24/7 assistance throughout the program. Whether you have coursework questions, need technical help, or require guidance, our dedicated team is always available to ensure your success.
Big Bonus
As an added benefit, if you pay our tuition in full, you’ll receive a free laptop, which is yours to keep even after completing the program, making it a practical and valuable bonus.
So, if you want to become job-ready faster, without the burden of student loan debt or the hassle of attending in-person classes, then Preppy’s Self-Paced Pharmacy Tech Training Program could be a great option.
In Conclusion
If you’re considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician, you now have a clear roadmap. We discussed what this role entails, the work environment, duties, required skills, job outlook, and salary expectations.
We also discussed what you need to start this career: formal training, certification, and hands-on experience.
Although choosing the right training program is crucial, earning a CPhT certification boosts your credentials, while gaining real-world experience through an externship can help you get job-ready faster without student loan debt.
So, if you want a training program that could help you get all the things you need to become job-ready faster, you could check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Pharmacy Tech Training Program.
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
Time is money. Instead of programs that could take 2 years, Preppy provides you with education in a few months through immersive online training.
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We look forward to speaking with you. You may also call 800-729-1317.
