If you're searching for a reliable, fast-paced career in healthcare that allows you to make a real difference — without spending years in school — becoming a pharmacy technician might be the perfect fit. Pharmacy technicians are vital members of the healthcare system, helping patients get the medications they need while supporting pharmacists in critical day-to-day operations.
This guide walks you through what pharmacy technicians do, what skills you’ll need, what the job market looks like and how to start your career — starting with flexible training from ASU CareerCatalyst.
The role of a pharmacy technician: a vital link between patients and pharmacists
Pharmacy technicians are the bridge between pharmacists and patients. They ensure prescriptions are filled accurately, medications are dispensed safely and customers receive excellent care. Without them, pharmacies couldn’t function efficiently.
Working under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, technicians handle both technical and customer service tasks. You’ll find them in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies and even online prescription fulfillment centers.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing and dispensing medications: Accurately measure, count and label prescription drugs.
- Processing insurance claims: Verify coverage, submit claims and resolve billing issues.
- Managing inventory: Track and order medications and supplies to ensure proper stock levels.
- Maintaining records: Update patient records, prescription logs and regulatory documentation.
- Using specialized pharmacy software: Navigate prescription management systems and electronic health records (EHR).
- Providing customer service: Answer patient questions, offer reassurance and support the pharmacist in consultations.
Pharmacy technicians are essential in preventing medication errors, managing workflows and helping pharmacists focus on clinical care.
Is this career a good fit?
Becoming a pharmacy technician is an excellent fit for individuals who:
- Enjoy working in structured, detail-oriented environments
- Like helping people but prefer minimal direct medical care
- Thrive in fast-paced settings like pharmacies and hospitals
- Have good communication skills and a calm demeanor
- Are interested in healthcare and want to enter the workforce quickly
This role also appeals to career changers, recent high school graduates and working adults seeking a stable and meaningful profession.
Core skills you’ll need to succeed as a pharmacy technician
To thrive as a pharmacy technician, you’ll need a blend of soft skills, technical know-how and attention to detail:
- Attention to detail: Medication accuracy is critical — small errors can have serious consequences.
- Customer service skills: You’ll be on the front lines of patient interaction.
- Math proficiency: Used for dosage calculations and inventory tracking.
- Technical aptitude: Comfort using pharmacy software and managing electronic records.
- Organization: You'll juggle multiple tasks while maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
- Teamwork: Pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists and healthcare teams.
An expanding field: pharmacy technician job outlook and salary
The demand for pharmacy technicians is growing steadily, especially as pharmacies expand their role in healthcare delivery.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technician employment is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, with 47,400 job openings per year due to workforce turnover and industry growth.
Salary highlights:
- National median annual salary (2023): $40,300
- Top 10% of earners: Over $57,130
- Arizona average salary: ~$43,670
- Phoenix metro area: ~$45,580
In Arizona, growth is especially strong due to a rapidly expanding healthcare sector and aging population. With its concentration of hospitals, outpatient centers and retail pharmacies, the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area offers one of the highest employment rates for pharmacy technicians in the region.
A guide to becoming a pharmacy technician
Here’s a step-by-step path to launch your career as a certified pharmacy technician:
1. Complete a pharmacy technician training program
While on-the-job training is possible, most employers prefer or require formal training. Look for programs that:
- Are aligned with national certification standards (like PTCB)
- Offer a flexible, self-paced format
- Include practical components or externship options
ASU CareerCatalyst offers a fully online pharmacy technician course that can be completed in less than a year. It’s designed for beginners with no prior experience and prepares you to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
2. Earn national certification
Certification helps you stand out to employers. The most widely recognized credential is:
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) from the PTCB
Passing this exam confirms your competency and qualifies you for jobs in retail and clinical settings.
3. Gain practical experience
Experience helps solidify your skills and boost your resume. Many training programs include externships or simulated lab experiences. You can also look for part-time positions or volunteer roles at:
- Chain pharmacies
- Hospital pharmacies
- Long-term care facilities
4. Build your professional resume and portfolio
Document your training, certifications and any hands-on experiences. A well-crafted resume and digital or print portfolio can help showcase your skills to employers during interviews.
5. Network with industry professionals
Join professional associations like the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) or attend local healthcare job fairs and events. Networking can lead to job leads, mentorship and career advancement.
6. Stay up to date with continuing education
To maintain your certification, you’ll need to complete continuing education hours. Stay informed on new medications, regulations and technologies by attending workshops, webinars and industry events.
As you begin your journey toward becoming a pharmacy technician, ASU CareerCatalyst is here to help you succeed. Our student-focused, flexible learning experience is designed to meet you where you are—whether you’re new to healthcare or making a career change. With a commitment to accessibility and real-world relevance, our online Pharmacy Technician course provides the training, tools, and support you need to thrive in this fast-paced and essential role. From foundational coursework to industry-informed resources like resume workshops and career webinars, every element is built to prepare you for certification and career success. Take the first step toward a fulfilling role in patient care—your future in healthcare starts today.
Why choose ASU CareerCatalyst for your pharmacy tech training?
A pharmacy technician career is more than just a job—it’s a stable, respected role that directly supports patient care. With the right training, you can be job-ready in under a year and step confidently into Arizona’s growing healthcare workforce.
CareerCatalyst offers flexible training designed for real-world success, including:
- 100% online, self-paced format—ideal for busy adults
- No prior experience or prerequisites required
- Prepares you for national certification (PTCB)
- Backed by the innovation and academic excellence of Arizona State University
