Top 13 Pharmacy Technician Skills for Your Resume

Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician? Understanding the core skills required is essential. In this article, we'll delve into pharmacy technician skills, offering insights, examples, and actionable tips for honing your abilities. By the end, you'll have the knowledge to thrive in this vital healthcare role.

This guide will show you: 

• What are pharmacy tech skills?
• What are the best pharmacy technician skills for resumes and career advancement?
• How to improve skills for pharmacy technicians.
• How to put pharmacy technician skills on resumes.

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What Are Pharmacy Technician Skills?

Pharmacy technician skills encompass a range of competencies necessary for efficiently supporting pharmacists in dispensing medications and assisting patients. These skills include communication, attention to detail, technical proficiency, and more.

Employers value pharmacy technician skills because they are integral to delivering safe and reliable pharmacy services, fostering patient trust and loyalty, and ultimately improving health outcomes for individuals and communities. Plus, working as a pharmacy technician is one of the best career options without a college degree.

Read more: Professional Skills for Resumes (Examples)

Pharmacy Technician Skills Examples

Pharmacy technician skills are the backbone of the profession, ensuring smooth operations within pharmacies and optimal patient care. Let's explore 13 essential skills pharmacy technicians should possess.

1. Communication Skills

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate communication skills by effectively conveying complex medication information to patients and collaborating with pharmacists to clarify prescriptions. Clear communication skills are one of the top transferable skills. They’re crucial in building trust and ensuring patient safety.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their communication skills by:

• Providing clear instructions on medication dosage and administration techniques.
• Educating patients about potential side effects and adverse reactions to watch for.
• Answering patient questions and addressing concerns about their prescriptions.
• Offering counseling on medication adherence and proper storage practices.

2. Attention to Detail

Pharmacy technicians can show their attention to detail by meticulously verifying prescription information and ensuring correct labeling and packaging of medications. Thorough attention to detail is a crucial soft skill needed for preventing medication errors and maintaining patient safety.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their attention to detail by:

• Double-checking prescription orders against patient profiles and physician instructions.
• Confirming correct medication names, dosages, and directions for use.
• Reviewing prescription expiration dates and refill authorizations.
• Identifying potential drug interactions or allergies based on patient history and medication records.

3. Technical Proficiency

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their technical skills by proficiently operating pharmacy software and equipment, such as automated dispensing machines and inventory management systems. Technical proficiency enables efficient workflow and accurate record-keeping in the pharmacy setting.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their technical proficiency by:

• Loading medication stock into dispensing machines and calibrating inventory levels.
• Navigating dispensing software to select and dispense medications accurately.
• Troubleshooting machine errors and performing routine maintenance tasks.
• Monitoring automated dispensing logs and transaction records for accuracy and completeness.

4. Pharmaceutical Knowledge

Pharmacy technicians can showcase their pharmaceutical knowledge by accurately identifying medications, understanding their uses and potential side effects, and providing valuable information to patients. A solid understanding of pharmaceuticals is an essential hard skill needed for ensuring safe and effective medication management.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their pharmaceutical knowledge by:

• Identifying medications by their brand and generic names.
• Understanding the mechanism of action and therapeutic effects of common medications.
• Educating patients about proper medication usage, including dosage instructions and potential side effects.
• Recognizing drug interactions and contraindications to prevent adverse reactions.

5. Organizational Skills

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their organizational skills by efficiently managing pharmacy inventory, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining a clean and orderly workspace. Strong organizational skills contribute to smooth pharmacy operations and ensure timely medication dispensing.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their organizational skills by:

• Maintaining accurate medication inventory records and tracking stock levels.
• Prioritizing prescription filling based on patient needs and urgency.
• Keeping work areas clean and organized to facilitate workflow and minimize errors.
• Managing prescription refills and patient inquiries in a timely and efficient manner.

6. Customer Service

Pharmacy technicians can utilize their customer service skills by providing friendly and helpful assistance to patients, addressing their concerns, and ensuring a positive pharmacy experience. Excellent customer service promotes patient satisfaction and loyalty to the pharmacy.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their customer service skills by:

• Greeting patients warmly and offering assistance with prescription drop-off and pick-up.
• Listening attentively to patient questions and concerns and providing accurate information or referrals as needed.
• Resolving patient complaints or issues with empathy and professionalism.
• Following up with patients to ensure satisfaction with their medications and pharmacy services.

7. Adaptability

Pharmacy technicians can utilize their adaptability by quickly adjusting to changes in workload, technology, or procedures within the pharmacy setting. The ability to adapt ensures smooth operations even in dynamic environments, ultimately contributing to patient safety and satisfaction.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their adaptability by:

• Flexibly managing fluctuating prescription volumes during peak hours.
• Adapting to new pharmacy software updates or system changes.
• Handling unexpected challenges or emergencies with composure and efficiency.
• Assisting colleagues with various tasks or stepping in to cover shifts as needed.

8. Time Management

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their time management skills by efficiently prioritizing tasks, meeting deadlines, and maximizing productivity while maintaining accuracy. Effective time management ensures that prescriptions are filled promptly and patients receive timely assistance.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their time management skills by:

• Filling prescriptions within designated time frames to minimize wait times for patients.
• Prioritizing urgent tasks such as medication refills or patient inquiries.
• Allocating time for inventory management tasks, such as restocking shelves or ordering medications.
• Balancing multiple responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail and quality of work.

9. Teamwork

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate teamwork skills by collaborating effectively with pharmacists, colleagues, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care. Strong teamwork skills enable a supportive work environment and enhance patient safety and satisfaction.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their teamwork skills by:

• Communicating clearly and respectfully with colleagues to coordinate tasks and share information.
• Assisting colleagues with prescription filling or other duties during busy periods.
• Participating actively in team meetings or discussions to contribute ideas and solutions.
• Collaborating with pharmacists to ensure accurate prescription dispensing and patient counseling.

10. Problem-Solving

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their problem-solving skills by analyzing complex situations, identifying root causes, and implementing effective solutions to medication-related issues. Strong problem-solving abilities are essential for ensuring patient safety and optimizing pharmacy operations. They’re also one of the most sought-after employability skills.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their problem-solving skills by:

• Investigating medication discrepancies or errors to determine the cause and prevent recurrence.
• Consulting with pharmacists or healthcare providers to resolve medication therapy problems.
• Finding alternative solutions when faced with medication shortages or stock discrepancies.
• Implementing process improvements to streamline workflow and enhance efficiency.

11. Confidentiality

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their confidentiality skills by safeguarding patient information and adhering to privacy regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Maintaining patient confidentiality is essential for building trust and protecting sensitive medical data.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their confidentiality skills by:

• Handling patient prescriptions and medical records with discretion and care.
• Ensuring that electronic health records and other sensitive information are accessed only by authorized personnel.
• Following established protocols for storing and disposing of patient information securely.
• Respecting patient privacy during interactions and refraining from discussing confidential information in public areas.

12. Empathy and Compassion

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their empathy, compassion, and other interpersonal skills by showing kindness and understanding towards patients, especially those facing health challenges or medication-related concerns. Empathetic interactions contribute to patient comfort and confidence in pharmacy services.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their empathy and compassion by:

• Listening actively to patients' concerns and offering emotional support as needed.
• Providing reassurance and encouragement to patients experiencing medication side effects or anxiety.
• Offering assistance to elderly or vulnerable patients with patience and respect.
• Recognizing and acknowledging the unique needs and experiences of each patient.

13. Regulatory Compliance

Pharmacy technicians can demonstrate their regulatory compliance skills by adhering to laws, regulations, and pharmacy policies governing medication dispensing and patient care. Compliance ensures legal and ethical practice, safeguarding patient welfare and pharmacy integrity.

Pharmacy technicians can prove their regulatory compliance skills by:

• Verifying prescription authenticity and accuracy according to legal requirements.
• Following protocols for handling controlled substances securely and documenting transactions accurately.
• Maintaining records of medication dispensing and patient interactions in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Participating in continuing education and training to stay updated on changes in pharmacy regulations and best practices.

Read more: The Best Skills for a Resume in 2024 + Expert Tips

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How to Improve Your Pharmacy Technician Skills?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected increase in employment for pharmacy techs from 2022 to 2032 is two times higher than the average growth rate for all occupations.

Developing and refining your pharmacy tech skills is key to advancing your career in this field. Here are four actionable tips to help you improve:

Seek Mentorship

Connect with experienced pharmacy technicians or pharmacists who can provide guidance and mentorship tailored to your career goals.

Stay Informed

Keep abreast of industry developments, new medications, and regulatory changes through professional journals, seminars, and continuing education programs.

Practice Regularly

Dedicate time to practice essential skills such as prescription filling, inventory management, and customer interactions to build confidence and proficiency. Take advantage of online courses. There are plenty, but you can start by checking out the ones I’ve selected for you:

• Pharmacy Technician Complete Course on Udemy
• How To Become A Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) on Udemy
• Become a Pharmacy Technician on Udemy
• Pharmacy Technician Fundamentals on Coursera
• Pharmacy Technician Exam Review on Udemy
• Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam Test Prep on Udemy

Request Feedback

Seek feedback from supervisors, colleagues, and patients to identify areas for improvement and refine your pharmacy tech skills continuously.

Pro Tip: Embrace challenges and view them as opportunities for growth. Each obstacle you overcome will strengthen your skills and enhance your value as a pharmacy technician.

Pharmacy Technician Skills on a Resume

Highlighting pharmacy technician skills effectively on your resume can help you stand out to potential employers.

How to list pharmacy technician skills on a resume:

• Create a separate resume section devoted solely to your pharmacy tech skills.
• Provide specific examples of how you've utilized these skills in the past.
• Tailor your resume to align with the job offer you're applying for.

Pro Tip: Quantify your achievements whenever possible, such as the percentage of accuracy achieved, to showcase tangible results.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:

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See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Take proactive steps to improve your skills and leverage growth opportunities to advance in your career as a pharmacy technician. And when you feel like it’s time for a change, make sure to showcase your pharmacy technician skills on your resume in the best way possible.

Thank you for reading my article! Do you have any questions about pharmacy technician skills? Feel free to share them in the comments section below.

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This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines. We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

Sources

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8887064/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacy-technicians.htm