Are you a pharmacy technician in Utah looking to increase your salary? Here are some tips to help you improve your chances:

Obtain Certification: Getting certified as a pharmacy technician through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can demonstrate your skills and knowledge, leading to higher pay.

Gain Experience: Consider gaining experience in different settings such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, or long-term care facilities. Institutions like the University of Utah Health offer opportunities for pharmacy technicians to gain valuable experience.

Continuing Education: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in the field by attending workshops, seminars, or online courses. The Utah Pharmacy Technician Association provides resources for continuing education in the state.

Negotiate Your Salary: When applying for a new position or during performance reviews, don't be afraid to negotiate your salary. Highlight your experience, certifications, and skills to show your value as a pharmacy technician.

Network: Build connections with other pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and professionals in the field. Attending events hosted by organizations like the Utah Pharmacy Association can help you expand your network and discover new opportunities.

If you are considering a career in the healthcare field, becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Utah might be the perfect fit for you. As a Pharmacy Technician, you play a vital role in assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. Here are some easy-to-follow steps to kickstart your journey in this rewarding career.

Firstly, you need to secure a High School Diploma or GED. This is a prerequisite for most Pharmacy Technician programs. Additionally, having a solid background in science and math is beneficial as these subjects are heavily incorporated into pharmaceutical work.

After achieving your high school education, your next move is to enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program. These programs are available at local community colleges, vocational schools, and online platforms. They offer comprehensive studies in areas such as pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and medical and pharmaceutical terminology among others. A most cost-effective and efficient option for this training is Stepful, an online platform that provides extensive certification training at a fraction of the cost of conventional college programs.

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

Once your training is completed, you will need to gain licensure from the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. This requires passing either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT exam. After passing the exam, you can then apply for licensure through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. It's essential to note that working as a Pharmacy Technician in Utah without this license is illegal.

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

As you navigate your path to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Utah, always strive to enhance your skills and knowledge. The healthcare field is continuously evolving, and staying updated is key to a successful career.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects pharmacy technician jobs to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033—outpacing many other occupations. This upward trend is projected to generate roughly 47,400 openings annually, largely fueled by workforce transitions and retirements.

In Utah, pharmacy technicians play a key role in various healthcare environments, from community pharmacies to hospitals and long-term care settings. As of May 2023, around 4,000 pharmacy technicians were working statewide. With an employment rate of 2.5 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.85, Utah's demand for pharmacy technicians sits just below the national average—still offering solid opportunities for those entering the field.