Pharmacy technicians are among the highest paid retail professionals. Pharmacy technicians help to run pharmacies and help pharmacists dispense medications. Technicians are used for almost any job in a pharmacy and are managed by pharmacists. Most jobs are in retail pharmacies, but there are also clinical positions in hospitals and medical clinics.

The pharmaceutical disbursement industry can be very rewarding. You will spend your days helping people get the medications and advice they need to live healthy, better lives. Hours are consistent and you will find there are many locations you can work. Job prospects are strong, as are salaries and benefits. Training programs are common and relatively inexpensive. We recommend you take a look at available programs and their job placement services. 
As a Pharmacy technician, you will earn a considerable hourly wage. This starts at around $18 per hour or more, but can increase to around $35 per hour, depending on the amount of responsibility in the position. Training will also take place on the job, once you become more experienced, your pay will be increased proportionally. Pharmacy technicians may be required to work late nights or weekends, but you will be compensated with over time.

The two main certification and qualification boards are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. Your training program will prepare you to pass either exam. You will also need to pass these exams every two years. They are not difficult, but require a proficiency in the pharmacy field. You can come with nearly any type of background, including retail, office administration, education, health, and other fields. You do not need a college degree to pursue a pharmacy technician program.

As a pharmacy technician, you will be working in one of the most exciting retail environments possible. Your clients will be thankful because you are an important step in keeping them and their families healthy. We recommend you consider a career as a pharmacy tech no matter your background. Retail or office backgrounds can be a great pathway to a career in a pharmacy. If you are willing to put in the time training online and/or in classroom settings, you can open the door to in demand careers that pay great wages and come with strong benefits for you and your family.