It may take anywhere from 10 to 15 years for a new drug to go from discovery to market, but you can become a professional in the pharmacy industry in no time.
If you care about people and love the idea of a job that makes a difference, consider working as a Pharmacy Technician, Delivery Driver or Sales Representative. Just browse through the job application guides below to learn more about a future in healthcare.
Pharmacy Jobs
Top 5 Job Positions in the Pharmacy Industry
Pharmacy Technician
A Pharmacy Technician works under the guidance of the pharmacist to prepare medications for customers. They are responsible for the accurate mixing, counting, recording and labeling of medication dosages in various forms from pills to liquids.
Technicians may also enter customer medical information into a computer system, and call physicians to authorize prescription refills. Pharmacy Technicians usually earn an average annual salary of $30,000.
Pharmacy Aide or Assistant
The Pharmacy Aide performs a variety of support tasks. They answer phone calls, accept prescription orders from customers for filling, and process payment for medication purchases.
Aides or Assistants are also usually required to stock shelves, monitor medication inventory, and receive incoming supplies. Pharmacy Aides earn an average salary of about $24,000 per year.
Pharmacy Delivery Driver
The Pharmacy Delivery Driver delivers prescription medication orders to patients wherever they are needed, including senior centers, clinics, and private homes. They often use their own vehicle, and may be required to help package orders before leaving the pharmacy.
Delivery Drivers must have a clean driving record and are required to obtain proof of delivery for all orders. Pharmacy Delivery Drivers often earn an annual salary of $24,000.
Chemical Technician
Chemical Technicians work in pharmaceutical research or manufacturing labs to help chemists develop and produce medical drugs. They may set up experiments, monitor chemical processes, or test product quality.
Chemical Technicians are trained to use specialized equipment and must ensure products meet required standards and specifications. Chemical Technicians can earn an average salary of $43,000 per year.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Reps sell over-the-counter (OTC) and generic drugs to pharmacies, and educate pharmacists about new products. They must convince pharmacists to carry the products they represent, and to recommend and display them competitively to customers.
Sales Representatives should be good negotiators, and must be willing to do a lot of traveling while working on a commission. Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives earn a widely varying income that generally averages about $75,000 per year.
