If you are a pharmacy technician in South Carolina looking to increase your salary, there are several strategies you can implement to improve your chances. By following these tips, you can enhance your skills and qualifications, making yourself a more valuable asset in the pharmaceutical industry.

Obtain Certification from PTCB or ExCPT: Becoming a certified pharmacy technician through organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and increase your earning potential. Many employers in South Carolina prefer to hire certified pharmacy technicians, so obtaining certification can give you a competitive edge.

Pursue Further Education or Training: Consider pursuing additional education or training to expand your knowledge and skills in the field. South Carolina offers pharmacy technician programs at institutions such as Midlands Technical College and Greenville Technical College, which can provide you with the necessary training to advance your career and potentially earn a higher salary.

Gain Experience in Specialty Areas: Specializing in a particular area of pharmacy, such as compounding or oncology, can make you more valuable to employers and potentially lead to a higher salary. Look for opportunities to gain experience in different areas of pharmacy practice, either through on-the-job training or continuing education programs.

Negotiate Your Salary: When applying for a new job or seeking a raise, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Research the average salary for pharmacy technicians in South Carolina and use this information to advocate for fair compensation. Highlight your qualifications, experience, and any additional certifications you may have to support your request for a higher salary.

Stay Current with Industry Trends: Keep yourself updated on the latest developments in the pharmaceutical industry, such as new medications, technology, and regulations. By staying informed and adapting to changes in the field, you can demonstrate your value as a pharmacy technician and potentially command a higher salary.

Dive into a promising career as a Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina, a rewarding gateway into the healthcare field. The state mandates pharmacy technicians to obtain certification, and there are a multitude of avenues to achieve this goal. Let's walk you through three fundamental steps that will guide you on your journey to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in this vibrant state:

Educational Requirements
Interestingly, South Carolina doesn't require you to hold a degree to kickstart your career as a Pharmacy Technician. However, completing a pharmacy technician program could give you a competitive edge. Such programs delve into medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy recordkeeping, and techniques of dispensing medications. Institutions like Midlands Technical College and Greenville Technical College are among the many in South Carolina that offer these programs.

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

Certification
Although South Carolina doesn't necessitate pharmacy technicians to be certified, it is often a requirement put forth by employers. Certification can be achieved through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), by passing an examination. This certification validates your competence and skills needed for the job, potentially leading to better pay and more job opportunities. Stepful, an affordable online education platform, offers a comprehensive course that equips you for the certification exam.

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

State Registration
Once you've accomplished your education and certification, the final step is to register as a pharmacy technician with the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy. This process involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and passing a background check. In South Carolina, pharmacy technicians are required to renew their registration every two years. By adhering to these steps, you'll be well on your way to a fulfilling career as a Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that pharmacy technician employment is expected to grow by 7% between 2023 and 2033—outpacing the average growth rate for most other professions. This projected expansion translates to about 47,400 new job openings each year, driven largely by workforce turnover and retirements.

In South Carolina, pharmacy technicians are a key part of the healthcare system, working in diverse environments such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, the state employed approximately 7,720 pharmacy technicians. With an employment rate of 3.473 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 1.21, South Carolina has a higher-than-average concentration of pharmacy technician roles compared to the rest of the country.

Thanks to a strong national outlook and solid in-state demand, South Carolina offers a promising landscape for anyone looking to build a stable and rewarding pharmacy technician career.