Prepare medications under the direction of a pharmacist. May measure, mix, count out, label, and record amounts and dosages of medications according to prescription orders.
Hands-onPerform medication measurement, mixing, and compounding procedures using precision equipment such as graduated cylinders and balances, following pharmacist-verified prescription orders.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate prescription orders for completeness and accuracy in retail and hospital pharmacy settings, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply pharmaceutical calculations and mathematical principles when determining dosages, preparing compound formulations, and verifying medication quantities.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply pharmacy management software and electronic health record systems to document medication preparation, process insurance claims, and maintain accurate inventory records.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess medication inventory levels and supply chain requirements to prevent stock shortages and ensure medication availability.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient safety protocols with efficient workflow practices when managing multiple prescriptions in high-volume pharmacy environments.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate automated dispensing systems and tablet counting machines to prepare accurate medication dosages under pharmacist supervision.
Developing
MindsetEngage with patients to collect prescription information and answer basic medication questions, demonstrating service orientation while maintaining professional boundaries.
Developing
Hands-onExecute sterile compounding techniques for intravenous medications within laminar flow hoods, adhering to USP standards and aseptic protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain pharmacy laws, regulations, and insurance requirements to patients and healthcare team members, facilitating informed decision-making.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Pharmacy Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
487,920
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,100. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,920. 50th percentile: U.S. $43,460. 75th percentile: U.S. $48,580. 90th percentile: U.S. $59,450. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,100
10% of workers earn the following or more
$59,450
Workers on average earn
$44,800
+ 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 Service4.6/5
Medicine and Dentistry3.9/5
Mathematics3.8/5
English Language3.8/5
Computers and Electronics3.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
