When it comes to improving your chances of getting a better pharmacy technician salary in New Mexico, there are a few key strategies you can implement. By taking certain steps and leveraging resources available to you, you can increase your earning potential in this field.

Obtain Certification from PTCB or NHA: Getting certified as a pharmacy technician through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can demonstrate your commitment to your profession and potentially lead to higher-paying opportunities in New Mexico.

Pursue Further Education or Training: Consider pursuing additional education or training, such as an associate degree in pharmacy technology, to enhance your skills and qualifications. Institutions like Central New Mexico Community College offer programs that can help you stand out in the job market.

Gain Experience in Diverse Settings: Working in a variety of pharmacy settings, such as retail, hospital, or compounding pharmacies, can broaden your skill set and make you more valuable to employers in New Mexico. Consider seeking out opportunities at places like UNM Hospital or Walgreens to diversify your experience.

Negotiate Your Salary: When applying for a pharmacy technician position in New Mexico, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary based on your qualifications and experience. Research the average salary for pharmacy technicians in the state to ensure you are being fairly compensated.

Stay Current with Industry Trends: Keep up to date with industry trends, new medications, and advancements in pharmacy technology to demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. Consider joining local organizations like the New Mexico Pharmacy Association to stay informed and network with other professionals in the field.

Venturing into the field of pharmacy technology can be a rewarding journey, where medical knowledge, attention to detail, and a sincere desire to assist others blend seamlessly. As a future Pharmacy Technician in New Mexico, you'll find this career path not only exciting but also fulfilling.

To start your journey, the first milestone is to secure a high school diploma or a GED. This is a prerequisite for most pharmacy technician training programs. If your high school journey is still in progress, it's wise to opt for subjects like biology, chemistry, and mathematics, as they lay a solid foundation for your future studies.

After you've attained your high school diploma, the next phase involves acquiring your Pharmacy Technician certification. This can be achieved by enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician program at a local community college or vocational school, such as Central New Mexico Community College or Pima Medical Institute in Albuquerque.

Alternatively, you can opt for a more flexible and cost-effective route by obtaining your certification online. Stepful offers the most budget-friendly and expedited online certification training.

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

Once you have your certification in hand, you must register with the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy. It's important to note that operating as a Pharmacy Technician in New Mexico without registration is against the law.

The registration process entails submitting an application, paying a stipulated fee, and passing a background check. Upon completion of these steps, you'll be all set to kickstart your career as a Pharmacy Technician in New Mexico.

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

While on this journey, remember to consistently update and improve your skills to keep pace with the evolving industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% increase in pharmacy technician jobs nationwide between 2023 and 2033, outpacing average job growth. This trend is expected to create roughly 47,400 openings annually, primarily to replace workers who are retiring or moving into other careers.

In New Mexico, about 2,620 pharmacy technicians were employed as of May 2023. With a job concentration of 3.3 per 1,000 positions and a location quotient of 1.23, the state has a higher-than-average presence of pharmacy technicians compared to the national level—making it a promising place to start or advance your career in this field.