Pharmacy Aides

Record drugs delivered to the pharmacy, store incoming merchandise, and inform the supervisor of stock needs. May operate cash register and accept prescriptions for filling.

SOC: 31-9095.00

Common Job Titles

Certified Pharmacist AssistantPharmacy AidePharmacy AssistantPharmacy Clerk

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeApply reading comprehension to interpret prescription orders and medication labels in retail and hospital pharmacy settings under pharmacist supervision.
  • Hands-onOperate cash registers and credit card processing machines while processing customer transactions and accepting prescription orders.
  • KnowledgeIdentify incoming pharmaceutical merchandise and stock inventory levels using pharmacy management software and maintaining accurate records.
  • Hands-onHandle pharmaceutical products and supplies while organizing storage areas according to regulatory requirements and safety protocols.
  • MindsetEngage with customers seeking pharmacy services demonstrating service orientation and social perceptiveness in high-volume retail settings.
  • KnowledgeMonitor pharmacy inventory levels and expiration dates to inform supervisors of restocking needs and ensure medication safety.
  • Hands-onOperate tablet counting machines and label printing equipment following established pharmacy protocols for medication preparation.
  • KnowledgeApply knowledge of administrative procedures and law and government regulations when documenting drug deliveries and maintaining compliance records.
  • KnowledgeUse pharmacy database software and Microsoft Office applications to process information, manage records, and communicate with pharmacy staff.
  • MindsetListen to patient inquiries and pharmacist instructions ensuring accurate communication regarding prescription orders and customer service needs.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Pharmacy Aides (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

41,100

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$29,360
10% of workers earn the following or more$58,660
Workers on average earn$40,290

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.8/5
  • English Language3.4/5
  • Administrative3.1/5
  • Sales and Marketing3.0/5
  • Law and Government2.9/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Database softwareSpreadsheet softwareWord processing software

Tools & Equipment

Automatic unit dose strip packaging machinesCapsule counting machinesCash registersCredit card processing machinesDesktop computersHEPA filtered biosafety cabinetsLabel printing machinesLaboratory blending or mixing equipment