Discover a career as a PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

What does a pharmacy technician do?

Pharmacy technicians assist in mixing and filling prescriptions and maintaining stock levels. They work under the direction and close supervision of pharmacists.

What might a pharmacy technician do in a workday?

fill prescriptions with prepared drugs and compound sterile intravenous solutions (under the supervision of a pharmacist).
mix pharmaceutical preparations under the direction and supervision of pharmacists.
package and label drugs, chemicals and other pharmaceutical preparations.
order and stock supplies and maintain inventory.
compute drug charges.
deliver prepared medications.
clean equipment and work areas.
sterilize bottles, beakers and other glassware according to prescribed methods.
greet and assist patients and other health care professionals.
gather and input data using a computer.

How much does a pharmacy technician earn?

$18,000 - $31,200

How do I become a pharmacy technician?

Students intending to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician should prepare by taking challenging high school courses in science, math and English. A required national certification exam is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Recertification must be obtained every two years.

Because pharmacy technicians deal with controlled substances, they may be required to undergo background checks. Applicants without prior experience or training may be required to pass a test to determine if they have the necessary aptitude to learn the job. Some typing may be required.

Where else can I learn about becoming a pharmacy technician?

American Association of Pharmacy Technicians
P.O. Box 1447 / Greensboro, NC 27402
tel: (877) 368-4771 / web: www.pharmacytechnician.com

American Pharmacists Association
2215 Constitution Avenue N.W. / Washington, DC 20037
tel: (202) 628-4410 / web: www.pharmacist.com

National Pharmacy Technician Association
P.O. Box 683148 / Houston, TX 77268
tel: (888) 247-8700 / web: www.pharmacytechnician.org

State Licensure Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians:

A license is required to practice as a pharmacy technician in the state of Virginia. For more information on licensure, applications and forms, visit www.dhp.virginia.gov/pharmacy.

Virginia Board of Pharmacy
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300 / Henrico, VA 23233
Phone: (804) 367-4456 / Email: pharmbd@dhp.virginia.gov