🏥 Healthcare ↑ 5% growth · Average

Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy techs assist pharmacists in dispensing medications, processing insurance, and managing inventory. Hospital pharmacy techs also prepare IV medications and chemotherapy compounds — highly specialized and well-compensated.

$39,860 Median Salary
452K US Jobs
6 months–1 year Training
$2,000–$12,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$30,000
Median
$39,860
Experienced
$54,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

5%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Average
452K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
CPhT
Required Credential
CPhT (PTCB or NHA ExCPT)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Pharmacy Tech Certificate
Program Length
6 months–1 year
Typical Tuition
$2,000–$12,000
Work Setting
Retail pharmacies, hospitals, compounding pharmacies
🏆 Credential Required: CPhT (PTCB or NHA ExCPT)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Pharmacy Technician involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Retail pharmacies environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 93

St. Petersburg College

📍 St. Petersburg, FL

Pinellas County's primary college with unique programs including Vet Tech and Funeral Service in addition to allied heal...

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygieneDental AssistingFuneral Service
Public Technical College
⭐ 90

Atlantic Technical College

📍 Coconut Creek, FL

Broward County's technical school — one of the most affordable pathways to healthcare and trades certifications in South...

LPNMedical AssistingDental AssistingCNAPharmacy Tech
Private University
⭐ 83

Florida National University

📍 Hialeah, FL

South Florida university serving a diverse community. Strong in allied health with Spanish-speaking support staff....

Nursing (RN/LPN)Medical AssistingDental AssistingPharmacy TechMedical Billing
Community College
⭐ 89

Calhoun Community College

📍 Decatur, AL

Largest community college in Alabama by enrollment (~14,600 students). Strong workforce training programs across Huntsvi...

Nursing (RN/ADN)LPN (Practical Nursing)HVACWeldingAutomotive Technology

🗺️ Pharmacy Technician by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: