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
• 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?

$35,000

What is the future of this career?

Employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Increased demand for prescription medications will lead to more demand for pharmaceutical services.

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?

• Asnuntuck Community College, Enfield
• Capital Community College, Hartford
• Gateway Community College, New Haven
• Manchester Community College, Manchester
• Middlesex Community College, Middletown
• Naugatuck Valley Community College, Waterbury
• Tunxis Community College, Farmington

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
336-333-9356
www.pharmacytechnician.com