If you're a pharmacy technician in New York looking to increase your salary, there are several strategies you can employ to improve your chances.

Obtain Certification: Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) can lead to higher pay. Institutions like Monroe College in Bronx offer PTCB exam prep courses to help you achieve this certification.

Gain Experience: The more experience you have as a pharmacy technician, the more valuable you become to employers. Consider seeking opportunities for internships or part-time positions at reputable pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens.

Specialize in a Certain Area: By specializing in a specific area of pharmacy such as compounding or nuclear pharmacy, you can increase your value and potentially earn a higher salary. Local institutions like Long Island University offer specialized pharmacy technician programs.

Continuing Education: Stay current with the latest trends and developments in the field by pursuing continuing education courses. Consider enrolling in programs offered by the New York City College of Technology to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Negotiate with Employers: When seeking a new job or during performance reviews, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and certifications to demonstrate your value as a pharmacy technician.

Dive into a meaningful career choice in New York as a Pharmacy Technician, a vital role in the expanding healthcare sector. New York has specific pathways to entering this profession, and we're here to guide you through them.

Education and Training Requirements

The journey begins with completing your high school diploma or equivalent. While some aspiring pharmacy technicians may opt to further their education with a post-secondary program in pharmacy technology, it isn't a requirement in New York.

The majority of pharmacy technicians acquire their skills through short-term on-the-job training. However, if you're inclined towards formal education, New York offers several Pharmacy Technician programs at institutions such as Monroe College and ASA College.

There's also a more cost-effective and speedy alternative: Stepful. Stepful offers online certification training that's both flexible and affordable, ideal for those looking to balance their studies with other commitments.

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

Certification

Although it's not mandatory in New York to have certification for Pharmacy Technicians, it's highly advantageous. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) provides the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification.

A certification not only amplifies your job prospects but also potentially boosts your salary. It's viewed as a testament to your high professional standards.

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

In New York, state registration for Pharmacy Technicians is not a requirement. However, it's wise to check with potential employers about their specific preferences. Some may favor, or even insist on, their pharmacy technicians being registered or certified.

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in New York means obtaining the required education, pondering over certification, and becoming familiar with the state's registration requirements. With the right mindset and dedication, you're well on your way to a flourishing career in this burgeoning healthcare field.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% increase in pharmacy technician employment from 2023 to 2033—surpassing the average growth rate for most occupations. This surge is expected to generate around 47,400 job openings each year, largely due to retirements and workers transitioning to other careers.

In New York, pharmacy technicians play a vital role in supporting patient care across retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, the state employed roughly 23,320 pharmacy technicians. With a concentration of 2.482 pharmacy techs per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.81, New York’s demand for these roles is slightly below the national average—but still offers strong opportunities for those entering the field.

Thanks to a solid national outlook and steady hiring across the state, New York remains a promising place to launch or grow your pharmacy technician career.