As a pharmacy technician in Idaho, there are several strategies you can implement to improve your chances of getting a better salary. By following these tips, you can increase your earning potential and advance your career in the field.

Obtain Certification from PTCB or NHA: Getting certified as a pharmacy technician through reputable organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can demonstrate your competency and dedication to your profession. Many employers in Idaho may offer higher salaries to certified technicians.

Gain Experience in a Specialty Area: Specializing in a specific area of pharmacy, such as compounding or nuclear pharmacy, can make you a more valuable asset to employers. Consider seeking out opportunities for specialized training or experience at institutions like St. Luke's Health System or St. Alphonsus Health System.

Continue Your Education: Pursuing additional education, such as an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology, can open up new doors for career advancement and higher salaries. Look into programs at local colleges like Idaho State University or the College of Western Idaho.

Network with Professionals in the Field: Building relationships with other pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and industry professionals can provide valuable insights and potential job opportunities. Consider attending local pharmacy conferences or joining professional organizations like the Idaho Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Seek Employment at Top Healthcare Facilities: Working at prestigious healthcare facilities in Idaho, such as St. Luke's Health System or Saint Alphonsus Health System, can often come with higher salaries and better benefits. Keep an eye out for job openings at these institutions and tailor your resume to highlight your qualifications and experience.

If you're considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Idaho, there are a few significant steps you'll need to take. These include acquiring the necessary education, obtaining certification, and exploring job opportunities within the state.

Acquiring the Necessary Education:

Your journey begins with completing a high school diploma or GED. Following that, you'll need to join a pharmacy technician program at a local community college or vocational school. Institutions like the College of Southern Idaho and North Idaho College offer these enlightening programs. They are designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in your role as a Pharmacy Technician.

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

Obtain Your Certification:

Once your education is complete, the next step is certification. You'll need to pass either the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) to meet the State of Idaho Board of Pharmacy's requirements.

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

If traditional classroom learning isn't for you, consider online certification training. Platforms like Stepful make this possible, offering a more affordable and faster route to get the education and preparation needed for these certification exams.

Explore Job Opportunities:

With your certification secured, you can start looking for job opportunities in various pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics in Idaho. Initiate your job hunt by visiting career pages of significant healthcare providers in the state. St. Luke's Health System and Saint Alphonsus Health System are excellent places to start. Remember, gaining experience is key to progressing in your career as a Pharmacy Technician.

Pharmacy technicians can expect solid career prospects over the next decade, with steady demand anticipated across the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% increase in pharmacy technician employment from 2023 to 2033—outpacing the growth rate for most occupations. This will create an estimated 47,400 job openings each year, primarily due to retirements and career changes within the workforce.

In Idaho, pharmacy technicians are essential members of healthcare teams, working in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, the state employed roughly 2,480 pharmacy technicians. Idaho’s employment concentration stands at 3.011 per 1,000 jobs, with a location quotient of 0.99—meaning the state’s demand for pharmacy technicians is closely aligned with the national average.

With consistent job growth at both the state and national levels, Idaho remains a promising location for individuals interested in building a career as a pharmacy technician.