Pharmacy Technician

To be a successful Pharmacy Technician you should…

• be able to perform repetitious work accurately
• be able to deal pleasantly and tactfully with customers
• be willing and able to take directions
• enjoy precise work because details are sometimes a matter of life and death
• be able to work on your own without constant instruction from the pharmacist
• possess good math skills
• have the ability to see slight differences in color and size
• possess the ability to use your hands and fingers to move small objects

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What will my job be like?

Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists provide medication and other health care products to patients. Pharmacy technicians label and fill prescriptions, order and maintain the pharmacy’s stock levels, fill unit-dose medication carts, package and repackage medications, and deliver prepared medications. Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists.

Where could I work?

Pharmacy technicians work in hospital and community pharmacies, extended care facilities, home health care, and industry.

Pharmacy technicians work the same hours as pharmacists. This includes evenings, nights, weekends, and some holidays. Most technicians work 35-45 hours a week. Since some hospital and retail pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, technicians and assistants may work varying shifts. There are many opportunities for part-time work in both retail and hospital settings.

Other workplace settings:

• Clinics
• Health Maintenance Organizations
• Retail Drug Chains

What is the average annual salary?

$35,100

What is the future of this career?

The BLS reports employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.

Despite limited employment growth, about 31,700 openings for pharmacy technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Although most pharmacy technicians receive informal on-the-job training, employers favor those who have completed formal training. Six-month to two-year training programs are available and lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.

Pharmacy technicians are trained in applied science degree programs at community colleges.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Housatonic Community College, Bridgeport
• Middlesex Community College, Middletown
• Naugatuck Valley Community College, Waterbury
• Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Winsted
• Quinebaug Valley Community College, Danielson
• Tunxis Community College, Farmington
• University of Connecticut, Storrs

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the State of Connecticut, however, you must work under direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

Where can I get more information?

American Association of Pharmacy Technicians
PO Box 391043
Omaha, NE  68139
(336) 252-8761
www.pharmacytechnician.com