Pharmacy technician wages will vary depending on where you work as the salaries vary from state to state as well as between different employers. The basic duties of a technicians salary is assist the pharmacist fill the many prescriptions. The duties have expanded to more managerial duties as well as the opportunities for advancement are great.
While it is not required to have a certificate most employers will favor those candidates that have a pharmacist technician. It is much less expensive and much faster to become a pharmacy technician instead of a pharmacist as you can find certified courses at community colleges, hospitals and even through the military.
In general you can expect to earn a pharmacy technician salary of between $20,000 to $30,000. Those that are new can expect to be at the lower end of the spectrum while those with a lot of experience, more than 20 years, can make up to $50,000 a year. The highest salaries can be found in medical and scientific research with the lower sectors being at retail.
The few states that offer the highest salaries include Washington D. C., Alaska, California, Hawaii and Washington. Additional compensations come in the form of benefits and you can receive retirement plans, life insurance and even paid sick leave.
Many employers may provide certification and training and you will need to learn how to deal with records, insurance claims, medical terminology, customer services, counting of medication, labeling, making sure everything is in stock and much more. The environment is quite good as the hours are regular with little to no weekend work and the environment is clean and safe.
The basic education you need is a high school diploma but if you have ever been convicted for a crime relating with drugs or pharmacies you can never work in a pharmacy. Make sure you are aware of all aspects of the job.
