If you are a pharmacy technician in California looking to increase your salary, there are several strategies you can implement to improve your chances. By taking proactive steps and leveraging available resources, you can potentially boost your earning potential in this competitive field. Here are some tips to help you achieve a better pharmacy technician salary in California:

Obtain Certification: Consider becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Many employers in California value certification and may offer higher salaries to certified technicians.

Gain Experience: Look for opportunities to gain experience in different pharmacy settings, such as retail, hospital, or long-term care facilities. The more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to employers, potentially leading to a higher salary.

Further Education: Consider pursuing additional education or training, such as a pharmacy technician diploma or an associate degree in pharmacy technology. Institutions like American Career College or Carrington College offer relevant programs in California.

Negotiate Salary: When applying for a new job or during performance reviews, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Research industry standards and be prepared to make a case for why you deserve a higher salary based on your qualifications and experience.

Stay Informed: Keep up to date with industry trends, changes in regulations, and advancements in pharmacy technology. By staying informed and continuously improving your skills, you will position yourself as a valuable asset to employers, potentially leading to a higher salary.

If you have a keen interest in healthcare and helping others, a career as a Pharmacy Technician in California might be the perfect fit for you. This article aims to guide you through the process of becoming a Pharmacy Technician in the Golden State.

The journey begins with obtaining a high school diploma or a GED, the basic educational requirement set by the California State Board of Pharmacy. It's important to have a solid foundation in science and math, as these are fundamental to the Pharmacy Technician field. Don't fret if you missed out on these classes in high school. Adult education programs are available to help brush up on these essential subjects.

Next, you'll need to sign up for a Pharmacy Technician training program. California mandates that this program be recognized by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). There's a wide array of options available across the state, from local community colleges to vocational schools. Yet, if such traditional routes don't fit your budget or schedule, Stepful online education provides an affordable and expedited solution. Known for its comprehensive Pharmacy Technician training program, Stepful not only prepares you for the certification exam but also for your upcoming career.

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

The final step is to obtain the Pharmacy Technician Certification. In California, pharmacy technicians must be certified either by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This certification involves passing an exam that assesses your ability to assist pharmacists, maintain medication inventories, and provide service to patients. With the right education and preparation, you will be well-equipped to pass this exam and kickstart your career as a Pharmacy Technician in California.

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

California remains a strong market for aspiring pharmacy technicians, backed by a solid national outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033—outpacing the average growth across all occupations. This projected increase translates to around 47,400 job openings each year, driven largely by career transitions and retirements.

As of May 2023, California had about 41,420 pharmacy technicians employed across retail, hospital, and clinical settings. The state’s employment concentration for this role stands at 2.308 per 1,000 jobs, with a location quotient of 0.76—slightly below the national average but still indicative of strong demand.

With thousands of technicians already working across the state and a growing need for pharmaceutical care, California continues to be a reliable and rewarding place to start or grow a pharmacy technician career.