Starting out in any career can feel overwhelming, and the world of pharmacy is no exception.
If you're interested in becoming a pharmacy technician but don't have any prior experience, don't worry. Many people start right where you are and go on to build a successful career in pharmacy. With the right training, attitude, and strategies, you can build a successful career as a pharmacy technician and begin gaining the experience you need to grow.
Understanding the role of a pharmacy technician
A pharmacy technician, under the supervision of a pharmacist, assists with preparing and dispensing medications, managing prescriptions and providing excellent customer service.
While every job description varies slightly depending on the setting, like hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, mail order pharmacies, or clinics, there are common job responsibilities. These often include counting pills, labeling bottles, assisting with dispensing medications, organizing supplies, handling insurance claims and maintaining records in compliance with pharmacy law and other regulations.
Even if you haven't held a pharmacy technician trainee or similar role before, understanding what the job entails will help you prepare for interviews and training programs. Employers want to know that you grasp the basics and are willing to learn.
Step 1: Meet the minimum requirements
The first step toward becoming a pharmacy technician is meeting the basic educational and legal requirements. Most employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some states also require state licensure or certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
Each state determines its own requirements, so check with the board of pharmacy or equivalent agency in your state for further details as requirements may change at any time.
While a high school diploma is often enough to start, completing a pharmacy technician training program can help increase your chances of landing your first pharmacy tech job.
These programs are offered at community colleges, technical schools and even online at your own pace. They provide both formal training and hands-on experience, which is especially helpful if you have no prior experience in a pharmacy.
Step 2: Consider formal training programs
Training programs are designed to teach the skills, knowledge, and tasks required to be a competent pharmacy tech. Many programs include an externship component, giving students the chance to get on-the-job training in retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies or mail-order pharmacies.
Some of the advantages of completing a training program include:
- Learning pharmacy law, regulations and procedures.
- Understanding how to handle prescriptions and dispense medications safely.
- Gaining exposure to different pharmacy settings, like grocery stores with pharmacy counters or clinics.
- Preparing for certification exams that many employers require.
Even if you're anxious about starting without experience, completing a pharmacy technician training program shows employers that you're serious, knowledgeable and ready to support pharmacists in a professional environment.
Step 3: Consider certification early
While some states allow pharmacy technicians to work without being certified, certification is often an advantage when searching for a pharmacy tech job. Earning certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board® demonstrates that you've mastered the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
Many states require certified pharmacy technicians to complete continuing education to maintain their credentials. Even if your state doesn't mandate it, certification can help you stand out from other candidates with no prior experience. Employers are more likely to hire someone who shows initiative and has completed a recognized training program or certification.
Step 4: Build a strong resume
When applying for your first pharmacy technician job, your resume is your opportunity to show potential employers that you're ready to work. Even without prior experience, you can highlight:
- Completion of a pharmacy technician training or education program.
- Any on-the-job training through internships or externship components.
- Transferable skills like customer service, organization, attention to detail or handling supplies.
- Volunteer experience in healthcare or hospitals, if applicable.
Including these details on your resume shows that, while you may not have prior experience, you are prepared to take on tasks and responsibilities in a professional pharmacy setting.
Step 5: Look for entry-level opportunities
Many employers are willing to hire pharmacy technicians without experience, especially if you're certified or have completed a training program. Entry-level positions may include:
- Pharmacy technician trainee roles, where you learn on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
- Positions in retail pharmacies such as CVS®, Walgreens® or independent grocery stores with pharmacy counters.
- Roles in hospital pharmacies or smaller clinics.
- Opportunities in mail-order pharmacies, where you may focus more on packaging and inventory management.
The goal is to get your foot in the door. Once you gain on-the-job training, your prior experience will grow, opening up more job opportunities and the potential to advance in your career.
Step 6: Network and seek support
Networking can be a powerful tool, even if you're just starting out. Talk to instructors in your training program, connect with alumni, or join online groups for pharmacy technicians. Sometimes employers post job opportunities to internal networks before they appear publicly.
Additionally, showing a willingness to support pharmacists and your healthcare team can make a lasting impression during interviews. Employers value a person who is eager to learn, follows regulations, and demonstrates essential skills for safe dispensing of medication.
Step 7: Focus on continued learning
Even after landing your first pharmacy tech job, your training isn't over. Many states require continuing education, and staying up-to-date with pharmacy law, medications, and industry regulations is essential. This also helps you gain skills that allow you to advance in your career or move into specialized areas of pharmacy, like hospital pharmacy, clinics or mail order pharmacies.
Hospitals and retail pharmacies often provide on-the-job training for new hires. If you've completed a training program or formal training, you'll find it easier to adapt and succeed. Employers also value technicians who are proactive in learning and showing initiative.
Step 8: Consider additional tips
Here are some practical tips for landing a pharmacy technician job without experience:
- Highlight transferable skills: If you've worked in customer service, administration, or any healthcare-related position, emphasize skills like organization, communication, and attention to detail.
- Be flexible with location: Smaller pharmacies or grocery stores may be more willing to hire entry-level technicians.
- Complete a certification early: It can make a huge difference when competing against other candidates.
- Stay informed: Understanding your state board requirements and pharmacy law shows professionalism.
- Show enthusiasm: Employers want someone interested in becoming a pharmacy technician and committed to patient care.
Remember, every pharmacy technician trainee starts somewhere. The key is showing initiative, completing a pharmacy technician training program, and demonstrating your knowledge, skills, and support for your healthcare team.
Why pharmacy technician is a great career choice
The demand for pharmacy technicians continues to grow as the aging population increases the need for prescription medications and for dispensing medications safely. Hospitals, retail pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies and clinics all need skilled pharmacy techs to support pharmacists and provide quality patient care.
By completing training, earning certification, and gaining on-the-job training, you can build a strong foundation for a successful career. With dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn, it's possible to go from having no prior experience to becoming a certified pharmacy technician with opportunities for advancement.
The field is full of opportunity
Remember, the first pharmacy technician job is just the beginning. With dedication, continuing education, and practical skills, you can advance into more specialized roles in hospitals, clinics or even management positions in retail pharmacies or mail-order pharmacies.
Everyone starts somewhere, and your willingness to learn, grow and adapt will set you apart. With the right combination of training, certification and passion for the healthcare industry, you can launch a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician, even without prior experience.
Interested in learning more about potential opportunities in pharmacy? Check out Pharmacy Tech to Pharmacist: 7 Reasons to Start as a Tech.
Walgreens® is a registered trademark of Walgreen Co.
CVS® is a registered trademark of CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board® is a registered trademark of Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, Inc.
