Every time you step in a drug store with a general practitioner’s prescription, you will find a professional in white doctor’s apron, welcoming you with “How may I help you sir?” These professionals with a stress-busting smile are the Pharmacy Technicians.

These Technicians are often confused with pharmacy aides, but in terms, they are extremely different. Pharmacy specialists, who are also known as pharmaceutical technicians, assist licensed pharmacists in drug stores or hospitals. The generally perform below mentioned duties:
  • Preparation of prescribed medicines

  • Counting of tablets

  • Blending medicines in required amount as per the instructions and label them

  • Keeping the records of all medicines and medical supplies, up to the mark

  • Helping customer who are roaming around shelves with their search

  • Guiding customers to right shelf

  • In urgent need, referring them to pharmacist immediately

  • Helping customers with their health insurance claim’s queries




Although there are no mandatory educational requirements for becoming a pharmacy technician, yet hirers prefer candidates with prior experience and relevant work history.




  • There are vocational and technical education programs for becoming a pharmacy technician and these courses are available in various community colleges, military wings, hospitals or at vocational institutes. The course may last up to any duration between half a year to 2 years, depending upon the course structure and laboratory work.

  • Beside these education certifications, these technicians are expected to complete an on job-training program, which could be of any duration between 3-12 months.

  • You cannot practice as a pharmacy technician without registering yourself with State Board of Pharmacy.

  • Certifications in most US states are not required, but still it is better to obtain voluntary certification from PTCB or ICPT.

The earnings of these pharmacy technicians vary with the location and institute served. There are few who earns between $10.95- $15.88 on hourly basis while there are some others who earn more than $18.98 per hour. The major cause behind this variation is the experience and certifications attained. (Source: www.bls.gov)





There are several college and vocational institutes that offer courses related to Pharmacy Technicians, but when it comes to career, no one wants to risk it with uninitiated course provider. Therefore, make a wise move and visit http://www.manhattaninstitute.com.








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