Are you a pharmacy technician in Alaska looking to increase your salary? There are several strategies you can implement to improve your chances of getting a better pharmacy technician salary in the state.

Obtain Certification through PTCB: By obtaining certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), you can demonstrate your knowledge and skills, making you a more valuable asset to your employer. Consider enrolling in a PTCB-approved training program at local institutions such as the University of Alaska Anchorage or the Alaska Career College.

Gain Experience in Specialty Areas: Specializing in a particular area of pharmacy, such as compounding or oncology, can lead to higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge and skills required. Look for opportunities to gain experience in these specialty areas at hospitals or specialty pharmacies in Alaska.

Negotiate for Higher Pay: When applying for a new job or during performance evaluations, don't be afraid to negotiate for a higher salary. Research the average pharmacy technician salary in Alaska and use this information to support your request for higher pay.

Continuing Education and Training: Stay current with the latest developments in the field of pharmacy by participating in continuing education and training programs. Institutions like the Alaska Pharmacists Association may offer relevant courses and workshops to help you stay competitive in the job market.

Consider Relocating to High-Paying Areas: If you're open to relocating, consider moving to areas in Alaska where pharmacy technicians are in high demand and salaries are higher. Cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks may offer better salary opportunities for pharmacy technicians.

Imagine launching into an exciting career as a Pharmacy Technician in Alaska, one of the states with a growing need for skilled healthcare professionals. The healthcare industry continues to evolve and expand, and pharmacy technicians are a crucial part of this dynamic field. Here's your guide to kick-starting your career journey in this exciting profession.

Educational Requirements

The first step in this journey is securing a high school diploma or GED. In Alaska, a college degree isn't a requirement for pharmacy technicians. However, employers often favor candidates with formal training under their belt.

You can find suitable training programs at local community colleges and vocational schools. For instance, the University of Alaska Anchorage runs a Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program. But if you're looking for a fast, affordable alternative, Stepful's online platform offers top-notch certification training.

>> Read More: How Much Do Pharmacy Technician School & Certification Cost?

Certification

While not mandatory in the state, certification can boost your employability, making you stand out in the job market. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) provides the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), a nationally recognized certification that could significantly enhance your job prospects.

>> Read More: Pharmacy Technician Certification Options (PTCB, NHA, CPhT, & More)

Practical Experience

Practical experience is a bonus for budding pharmacy technicians. Seek opportunities to work or volunteer in local pharmacies to gain real-life experience. Not only does this bolster your resume, but it also gives you a comprehensive understanding of the everyday tasks of a pharmacy technician.

Pharmacy technicians in Alaska can anticipate a stable employment landscape in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average growth rate for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in approximately 47,400 job openings annually, primarily due to workforce turnover and retirements.

As of May 2023, Alaska employed approximately 860 pharmacy technicians. The state's employment concentration for this occupation is 2.755 per 1,000 jobs, with a location quotient of 0.91, indicating a slightly lower concentration of pharmacy technician jobs compared to the national average.

With a favorable national job outlook and consistent opportunities within the state, Alaska offers a supportive environment for individuals pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.