Working as a

pharmacy technician

is just the prescription needed to learn about becoming a pharmacist or working elsewhere in the pharmaceutical industry. That's because, says Ed Mowbray, Inventory Coordinator at Shore Memorial Hospital (Somers Point, NJ), pharmacy technicians work side-by-side with pharmacists, assisting them in every way possible.

Although Mowbray didn't receive formal classroom pharmacy technician training, his 10 years of on-the-job knowledge was enough to pass the pharmacy technician certification exam. However, he says, today's aspiring pharmacy technicians can set themselves apart with an education in the field.

In addition to being a certified pharmacy technician, Mowbray also has the added responsibility of maintaining inventory, providing him a unique view of the hospital. "I have to make sure the right drugs in the right strength and right quantity are given," he explains, noting that the pharmacist must sign off on everything he does. In addition, he runs reports, check contracts and prices, works directly with nurses and physicians, and tries to keep only a three- or four-day supply for most drugs. "It keeps expired inventory to a minimum," he says. And, in turn, that saves the hospital money.

Prognosis for Good Job Growth
Of course, the majority of pharmacy technicians (about 7 out of 10) actually work in retail pharmacies, either independently owned or part of a drugstore chain, grocery store, department store, or mass retailer.

And here's a dose of good news: Employment of pharmacy technicians is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2014, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The expansion of retail pharmacies and the aging population both contribute to the growing demand for pharmaceuticals.

Certifications and Affiliations
If you're thinking of pursuing pharmacy technician training, it's a good idea to become a certified pharmacy technician via the national Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam. Mowbray enjoyed a salary increase as the result of him passing the pharmacy technician certification, and the BLS says it will give newcomers to the field an advantage for getting hired.

To learn more about any career specialization, align yourself with a professional organization. For pharmacy technicians, the NPTA, the National Pharmacy Technician Association, is the world's largest professional organization. The association is dedicated to advancing the value of pharmacy technicians and the vital roles they play in pharmaceutical care.

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