If you are a pharmacy technician in Maine looking to increase your salary, there are several strategies you can implement to improve your chances. By taking proactive steps and seeking out opportunities for advancement, you can work towards earning a higher income in your field.

Obtain Certification: Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Maine can help boost your salary potential. Consider obtaining certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Gain Experience: Increasing your experience as a pharmacy technician can lead to higher pay. Look for opportunities to work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, or long-term care facilities.

Further Education: Pursuing additional education, such as an associate's degree in pharmacy technology, can enhance your skills and qualifications, making you more marketable to employers like Maine Medical Center or Walgreens.

Negotiate Salary: When applying for a new position or during performance reviews at your current job, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Research the average pharmacy technician salary in Maine to ensure you are being compensated fairly.

Network: Building a strong professional network within the pharmacy industry can open doors to new job opportunities with higher salaries. Attend local pharmacy technician events or join professional organizations like the Maine Pharmacy Association.

If you're considering a career in healthcare, becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Maine could be the perfect choice. This essential role offers a chance to be part of the vital medical industry, assisting pharmacists with the crucial task of dispensing prescription medication to customers and health professionals.

Here's a clear path to launching your rewarding career:

Secure a High School Diploma or GED
In the state of Maine, the journey to becoming a Pharmacy Technician begins with obtaining a high school diploma or GED. Most pharmacy technician programs and employers consider this the baseline educational requirement. It's especially important to hone your skills in mathematics, biology, and chemistry, as these subjects are integral to the pharmaceutical field.

Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Program
Once you've got your diploma or GED, the next move is to enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program. These programs, accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), equip you with the necessary training and education for your future career.

While there are several options available in Maine such as the Portland Community College and the University of Southern Maine, Stepful's online program presents a more wallet-friendly alternative. Not only is it the most affordable, but it also offers flexible learning that fits your schedule.

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

Earn Your Certification
While certification is not a requirement for pharmacy technicians in Maine, it certainly adds an edge to your profile. Many employers prefer to hire certified technicians, making it a smart career move.

Certification involves clearing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) which is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Before you can sit for the exam, you'll need to complete a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program or have equivalent work experience. Earning this certification can boost your employability and potentially lead to a higher salary.

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

As you progress in your career as a Pharmacy Technician in Maine, always aim to improve your skills and stay current with the latest trends in the field. This proactive approach can significantly boost your chances of success in this rewarding profession.

Pharmacy technicians are expected to see steady job growth over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to rise by 7% from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will create an estimated 47,400 job openings each year, largely due to workers retiring or changing careers.

In Maine, pharmacy technicians are employed in a variety of healthcare environments, including retail drugstores, hospital systems, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, there were about 2,190 pharmacy technicians working across the state. With an employment rate of 3.579 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.17, Maine has a higher concentration of pharmacy technician positions than the national average.

Given the national momentum and strong local demand, Maine offers a solid foundation for anyone looking to start or advance a pharmacy technician career.