The steps to get hired as a pharmacy technician
- Get what you need to start: a high school diploma or equivalent. If you qualify, WIOA can pay for job training: WIOA pharmacy technician training.
- Some states and employers require certification. Practice for the test free: Pharmacy technician practice test.
- Write a resume for the job: the pharmacy technician resume has a full sample and the skills employers look for.
- Practice the interview: Pharmacy technician interview questions.
- Apply to openings near you: pharmacy technician jobs near me.
| Pharmacy technician | |
|---|---|
| Median pay | $45,750 a year (median, May 2025) |
| Education to start | A high school diploma or equivalent |
| Training on the job | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Job outlook | 6 percent growth from 2025 to 2035, about 44,700 openings each year |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, page last updated August 27, 2026.
What it takes to become a pharmacy technician
On-the-job training usually takes less than a year. Some pharmacy technicians finish a pharmacy technology program instead, often a certificate in a year or less.
Most states regulate pharmacy technicians. That can mean passing an exam or finishing a formal program.
Some states and employers require certification, and some employers pay for the exam.
Apply to jobs near you
Pick the job and your ZIP code to see openings near you. Capstone Careers writes your resume for each one from what you give it and fills in the application.