Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists fill prescriptions. They label prescription bottles, count medication, and perform other tasks to help pharmacists ensure that each prescription is filled safely and accurately. Pharmacy technicians often work alongside the pharmacist and sometimes directly with the public.
As people live longer and pharmacies get more involved in patient care and insurance issues, the need for pharmacy technicians is growing. The National Pharmacy Technician Association reports that job openings for pharmacy technicians are expected to grow by 28 percent or more over the next decade. The median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the U.S. is $23,650. The average starting salary is $10.00 an hour, or $20,800 per year. With more experience pharmacy technicians can earn over $14.00 an hour.
Most pharmacy technicians learn through informal on-the-job training. However, more and more employers prefer to hire people with formal training. Depending on the program, students can earn a diploma, certificate, or associate’s degree. Many training programs include hands-on experience working in a pharmacy. Online directories provide help in locating pharmacy technician training programs.
An increasing number of states and employers require certification of pharmacy technicians. To maintain certification, technicians need 20 hours of continuing education within two years. Colleges, pharmacy associations, and pharmacy technician training programs offer continuing education, with both online and classroom courses.
Training, experience, and certification open opportunities for advancement to supervisory positions. A career as a pharmacy technician is likely to provide a secure income well into the future.
With a diploma from Penn Foster Career School you can become a pharmacy technician and begin a rewarding career in healthcare. With online classes at Penn Foster Career School, you can learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.
