Pharmacy Technician Jobs Overview

Patients rely on prescription medication to treat chronic and temporary conditions, so it's absolutely critical that medications are divvied up and handled appropriately for patient safety. Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in our healthcare system by providing this safe and effective medication. They often work for pharmacies, drug stores, and medical facilities. Pharmacy technician jobs are available to job seekers who have specialized training, education, and licensure.

When you get a job as a pharmacy technician, you'll perform a wide array of tasks. For example, you'll likely fill prescriptions, measure medication, package and label prescriptions, address medication shortages, and speak with customers.

Want to expand your search of healthcare technology jobs? Try applying for these positions:

• medical technologist jobs
• X-ray technician jobs
• surgical tech jobs

Pharmacy Technician Education and Skills

You only need a high school diploma to gain on-the-job training for an entry-level pharmacy technician position. However, you can increase your likelihood of getting hired by completing a post-secondary pharmacy technician certificate or associate degree program at a vocational school or community college. Pharmacy technician coursework usually covers:

• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Mathematics
• Recordkeeping
• Making medication calculations
• Medication dispensing
• Names, uses, and doses of medications

Depending on which state you live in, you'll likely need to be licensed by your state's Board of Pharmacy. You must meet their education requirements, pass an exam, pay a fee, and complete a criminal background check.

It takes a professional with a good eye for measurements, mathematical skills, and in-depth knowledge of medicine to be a pharmacy tech. Exceptional customer service and organizational skills as well as keen attention to detail will also help you to succeed in this career. To learn more about what to expect in a pharmaceutical career, see Monster's pharmacy technician job description sample.

Update Your Pharmacy Technician Resume

Before you start applying for pharmacy technician jobs, make sure your resume is tailored to the right position. If you're applying for the first time, refer to our entry-level pharmacy technician resume sample to learn how to maximize your chances of getting hired out of school. We also offer a mid-level pharmacy technician resume sample for pharmacy technicians applying for more advanced positions.

To ensure your resume is read by a hiring manager, make a good first impression with a well-written cover letter where you briefly highlight your skills, achievements, and reason for applying. Our pharmacy technician cover letter sample offers a visual of what your cover letter should look like.

Interviewing for a Pharmacy Technician Job

The prospect of a job interview can make anyone anxious. But knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help put you at ease. Monster offers a list of common job interview questions that a potential employer may ask. Here are some questions you can expect to answer:

• Why do you want to work for us?
• Tell us about your strengths and weakness.
• Why did you leave your last job?
• What qualities did your last boss like about you?

How Much Do Pharmacy Technician Jobs Pay?

If you'd like to know how much money you can make as a pharmacy technician, you've come to the right place. Pharmacy technicians in the U.S. make about $15.89 per hour. Pay rates may differ by your level of experience and location. Use our tool to get an estimate of how much you can expect to earn in your position. You'll also find a list of U.S. metro areas where pharmacy technicians are in high demand and median salaries for related jobs.

Want to Learn More About a Company You're Interested In?

Want to work for a company that's a great fit for you? Do your research on pharmacies in your area with our company profiles. If you have a specific company in mind, you'll find important details such as:

• Basic company information.
• A view of the company's culture.
• The latest job postings.

Sign Up With Monster Today for Your Prescription for Success

Do you have the credentials needed for a pharmacy technician career? If so, set up your free profile at Monster and start clicking on pharmacy technician jobs. When you sign up with us, you can also receive custom job notifications and tips for making yourself stand out among other candidates.