If you are a pharmacy technician in Florida looking to increase your salary, there are several strategies you can implement to achieve this goal. By taking proactive steps and investing in your professional development, you can improve your chances of earning a higher income in this field.

Obtain Certification from PTCB or ExCPT: Becoming a certified pharmacy technician through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) can enhance your credentials and make you more competitive in the job market. Local institutions like the Florida Pharmacy Association can provide resources and support for certification exam preparation.

Gain Experience in Specialized Areas: By specializing in a particular area of pharmacy practice, such as compounding or sterile products preparation, you can increase your marketability and demand a higher salary. Consider seeking out opportunities for specialized training and hands-on experience at institutions like the University of Florida College of Pharmacy.

Pursue Continuing Education: Staying current with the latest developments in the field of pharmacy through continuing education courses and workshops can demonstrate your commitment to professional growth and potentially lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Look into programs offered by local organizations like the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Seek Employment at Larger Healthcare Facilities: Pharmacy technicians working at larger healthcare facilities, such as hospitals or medical centers, often command higher salaries than those employed at retail pharmacies. Consider applying for positions at institutions like the Mayo Clinic Florida or the Cleveland Clinic Florida to explore higher-paying opportunities.

Negotiate Your Salary: When applying for a new job or seeking a raise, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary based on your qualifications, experience, and the local market rates for pharmacy technicians in Florida. Conduct research on average salaries in the state to support your negotiation efforts.

Get a High School Diploma or GED
In Arkansas, the first step towards becoming a Pharmacy Technician is to obtain a high school diploma or GED. This is a basic requirement for any medical career. By focusing on subjects like biology, chemistry, and math, you can set a strong foundation for your future career.

A high school diploma or GED is also typically required to enroll in any Pharmacy Technician certification programs.

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

Complete a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The next step is to complete a Pharmacy Technician training program. These programs can be found at several local institutions in Arkansas, such as the University of Arkansas or Arkansas State University.

However, many aspiring Pharmacy Technicians are now opting for online certification training. A popular choice is Stepful, which offers an affordable and flexible option for those looking to get certified while balancing other responsibilities.

Obtain Pharmacy Technician Certification
In Arkansas, Pharmacy Technicians must be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). This involves passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

After passing this exam, you'll be officially recognized as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). Maintaining this certification requires continuing education, which can also be pursued through online platforms like Stepful.

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

In conclusion, starting a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Arkansas involves getting a high school diploma or GED, completing a Pharmacy Technician training program, and obtaining certification. With dedication and the right resources, you can embark on this fulfilling career path.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in approximately 47,400 job openings each year, primarily due to the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

In Florida, pharmacy technicians are employed across various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, there were approximately 37,980 pharmacy technicians employed in the state. Florida's employment concentration for this occupation is 3.969 per 1,000 jobs, with a location quotient of 1.31, indicating a higher concentration of pharmacy technician jobs compared to the national average.