If you’ve been following the news, then you may be familiar with a fact that pharmacies are shutting down across the country. This is not only affecting major chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, but also independent pharmacies.
Now, seeing such a decline in pharmacy business, it is natural to ask the question, “Is becoming a pharmacy technician still a smart career move?” Hint: Yes, it is.
Let’s explore why.
Increasing Demand
Despite the pharmacies shutting down left and right across the country, the demand for the role of pharmacy technician is actually increasing.
According to the data available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow by 7 percent from 2023 to 2033. This translates to approximately 47,400 job openings each year.
The reason behind this demand is often associated with an aging population and a growing number of people with chronic illnesses. This means that the country needs more professionals in pharmacies (even though their number is decreasing) who can handle the core responsibilities of dispensing, compounding, and managing inventory.
Decent Salary
Granted, this role doesn’t see salary figures in triple digits, but it does pay well. For instance, the median salary for this role is $43,460 per year (as per the BLS data), which translates to roughly $20 per hour.
This may not seem like a lot; however, when compared to the national minimum wages, it is significantly better, especially considering that these salary numbers are for individuals with little to no experience.
Not to mention that the pay scale of pharma techs is dependent on factors such as location, workplace, and specialization. For instance, a pharma tech in a hospital will earn more than one working in a retail pharmacy.
Easy and Quick Entry
Unlike other healthcare roles that demand at least an associate degree, pharmacy technicians’ roles don’t have such a requirement. In fact, it has among the lowest prerequisites. To become a pharmacy technician, all you need is:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- A high school diploma or equivalent GED
- Pharmacy Technician Certification (PTCB or ExCPT)
To clear the exam, it is highly recommended that you complete an online pharmacy tech training program from an ACCET-approved institution.
Also, if you choose a fast-track course like the CCI Training Center Pharma Tech program, you can become job-ready in as little as 25 weeks.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Another reason why becoming a pharmacy technician remains viable in 2025 is that it provides a springboard to advanced roles.
Now, if you complete your pharmacy tech training from a reputable institution, then you’d also gain skills such as non-sterile compounding, pharmacology, and fundamentals of pharmacy.
These skills can easily be transferred to advanced roles. What this means is that with experience and further education, you can easily transition into high-paying roles such as:
- Pharmacist
- Specialty Pharmacy Technician
- Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Work Setting Flexibility
When people hear the term “pharmacy technician,” they automatically assume someone handing out prescriptions in a pharmacy. But in 2025, pharmacy tech opportunities extend far beyond that.
For instance, pharma techs are now working in long-term care facilities like nursing homes, where medication management is critical.
Or, they are finding new roles in the military, with excellent benefits.
Lastly, with the rise of online healthcare (one good thing that came out of COVID-19), many technicians now work remotely.
Job Security
The last few years have been shaky, making a lot of people realize that markets can be volatile.
Thankfully, despite the shake-ups, healthcare is one industry that is recession-proof. This is because no matter the state of the economy, people need their prescriptions filled, ensuring a stable job for pharma techs.
Skills That Help You Stand Out
Yes, this role is secure and in demand, but to stand out from the crowd, pharmacy techs should master the following skills:
- Customer service: Assisting patients, sometimes in stressful or emotional situations, goes a long way.
- Attention to detail: This skill sets apart great techs from good ones. Not to mention, in this field, a single error in dosage or labeling can have serious consequences.
- Teamwork: Collaborating with pharmacists, nurses, and doctors daily is required, so embracing teamwork is crucial.
- Empathy & communication: Helping patients understand instructions and reassuring them.
Final Words
So, to answer the question, “Is it still worth becoming a pharma tech?” Absolutely!
The growing demand, stable salaries, fast entry, career advancement, and strong job security all point to this being an excellent choice.
And when you add in the flexibility of diverse work settings and the ability to transition into higher-level healthcare roles, it’s clear that choosing this career is still a smart move.
