Certification
There are two authorities that offer certificates for pharmacy techs, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, or PTCB, which certifies pharmacy technicians nationally. Then there is the Board of Pharmacy that is available in different states, which offers state certificates. Pharmacy assistants don't require certification.
Education
To become a pharmacy tech, you will have to complete schooling that can take between six months and two years to complete, depending on the school and the level of education. You can obtain a certificate or an associate's degree for pharmacy technology. After obtaining an associate's degree, you can receive certification from one of the certification authorities. For pharmacy assistants, there aren't any formal training requirements. They learn what to do while on the job.
Responsibilities
As a pharmacy technician, you will have to compound creams, capsules, gels and sterile intravenous solutions. You may also have to offer limited health advice. Pharmacy assistants have reduced responsibilities that involve counting pills and making deliveries. They also have to perform administrative duties like answering the phone.
Supervision
As a pharmacy tech, you will work under a pharmacist and you'll work over a pharmacy assistant.
Advancement
Working in the field of pharmacy technology, you will be able to advance to a role as the lead technician. You may also obtain specialized roles inside of the pharmacy. As a pharmacy aide, you will have limited chances to advance, although some receive training and become technicians in order to advance in their career.
Earnings
The median salary for pharmacy techs in 2008 was $13.32 hourly and the average hourly salary for pharmacy aides was between $8.47 and $11.62.
