If you're looking to improve your chances of getting a better pharmacy technician salary in North Carolina, there are a few key strategies you can implement. By focusing on these areas, you can increase your earning potential and advance your career in the pharmaceutical industry.

Obtain Certification through PTCB or ExCPT: Becoming certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) can demonstrate your expertise and dedication to your profession. This can lead to higher paying job opportunities at institutions like Duke University Hospital or UNC Health Care.

Gain Experience in Specialty Areas: Specializing in areas such as compounding, oncology, or sterile products can make you a more valuable asset to employers, potentially resulting in a higher salary. Seek opportunities at specialty pharmacies like BioScrip or Avella Specialty Pharmacy.

Further Your Education with an Associate's Degree: Pursuing an associate's degree in pharmacy technology or a related field can open up doors to higher paying positions, such as pharmacy technician supervisor roles at companies like Walgreens or CVS Health.

Network with Industry Professionals: Building relationships with pharmacists, pharmacy managers, and other industry professionals can lead to insider knowledge on job openings and salary negotiation tips. Attend local pharmacy technician association events or conferences to expand your network.

Stay Current with Continuing Education: Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in pharmacy technology and regulations through continuing education courses can make you a more competitive candidate for well-paying positions. Look for accredited programs at institutions like Wake Technical Community College or Central Piedmont Community College.

Meet Basic Requirements
Firstly, you must meet the basic requirements set by the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy. You need to be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and provide a criminal background check.

Although not explicitly required, it's beneficial to have strong math skills. Pharmacy technicians often need to calculate medication dosages.

Complete a Pharmacy Technician Program
Next, you'll need to complete an approved Pharmacy Technician Program. These programs are offered by several institutions within North Carolina such as Wake Technical Community College and Central Piedmont Community College.

However, if attending a traditional college is not feasible due to time or financial constraints, online platforms like Stepful offer affordable certification training. These online courses are an excellent alternative. They provide comprehensive and flexible learning experiences that equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

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

Register with the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy
Once you complete the program, you have to register as a Pharmacy Technician with the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy. Registration involves submitting an application form, paying an application fee, and providing proof of completion of your training program.

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

Upon registration, you will be granted a Pharmacy Technician Registration certificate that allows you to practice in North Carolina. Remember, this registration needs to be renewed annually. During which you will also need to show proof of continuous education.

A career as a Pharmacy Technician not only provides job security but also offers a fulfilling role in patient care. Whether you opt for traditional college education or online learning platforms like Stepful, the pathway to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in North Carolina is within your reach.

Considering a healthcare career in North Carolina? Pharmacy technicians are in demand across the state, and the outlook for 2024 is encouraging. As pharmacies expand their services and the need for prescription support grows, trained technicians are becoming increasingly essential in both retail and clinical settings.

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 North Carolina, pharmacy technicians are employed across various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, there were approximately 15,440 pharmacy technicians employed in the state. North Carolina's employment concentration for this occupation is 3.221 per 1,000 jobs, with a location quotient of 1.06, indicating a slightly higher concentration of pharmacy technician jobs compared to the national average.

With a favorable national job outlook and opportunities across the state, North Carolina presents a viable environment for individuals pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.