If you are a pharmacy technician in Tennessee looking to increase your salary, there are a few strategies you can implement to improve your chances.

Obtain Certification: Getting certified as a pharmacy technician through organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can lead to higher paying job opportunities, such as at major pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens.

Gain Experience: By gaining experience in different pharmacy settings, such as retail, hospital, or compounding pharmacies, you can make yourself more marketable to potential employers, potentially leading to a higher salary. Consider applying for positions at reputable institutions like Vanderbilt University Medical Center or Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.

Further Education: Pursuing additional education, such as a degree in pharmacy technology or a related field, can help you stand out among other candidates and command a higher salary. Local schools like Remington College in Memphis offer programs for aspiring pharmacy technicians.

Negotiate Salary: When applying for a new job or seeking a raise, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Researching the average pharmacy technician salary in Tennessee and highlighting your qualifications and experience can help you secure a better pay rate.

Stay Updated: Continuing education and staying current on industry trends can demonstrate your commitment to the field and make you a more valuable asset to employers, potentially leading to a higher salary. Consider attending conferences or workshops offered by organizations like the Tennessee Pharmacists Association.

Complete Your High School Education
The first step towards a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Tennessee is to complete your high school education or its equivalent. High school classes in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and healthcare can provide a solid foundation for your future career.

Having a high school diploma or GED is typically a prerequisite for most pharmacy technician training programs and jobs.

Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Program
After completing your high school education, you'll need to enroll in a pharmacy technician program. These programs are available at various institutions throughout Tennessee, including Nashville State Community College and Southwest Tennessee Community College.

You may also consider online certification training through platforms like Stepful, which can be more affordable than traditional college. These programs typically cover topics such as pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, medical and pharmaceutical terminology, and pharmacology.

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

Obtain Pharmacy Technician Certification
In the state of Tennessee, it's required to obtain certification to work as a Pharmacy Technician. You can obtain this certification by passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians).

Upon successful completion of the examination, you'll be recognized as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). This certification can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay.

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

In conclusion, starting a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Tennessee involves completing your high school education, enrolling in a pharmacy technician program, and obtaining certification. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a promising career in this field.

Thinking about starting a pharmacy technician career in Tennessee? The job market is looking strong for 2024 and beyond. As healthcare needs continue to grow across the state, pharmacy technicians are playing a more important role in ensuring patients get the medications and support they need.

Nationwide, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects pharmacy technician employment to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for most jobs. In Tennessee, the demand is especially high, with over 12,000 pharmacy techs already working across the state in pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care settings. Whether you're in a bustling city like Nashville or a smaller town, there are plenty of opportunities to build a stable, rewarding career in this field.