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Pharmacy Technicians
Description
Prepare medications under the direction of a pharmacist. May measure, mix, count out, label, and record amounts and dosages of medications according to prescription orders.
Common Tasks
- Prepack bulk medicines, fill bottles with prescribed medications, and type and affix labels.
- Receive and store incoming supplies, verify quantities against invoices, check for outdated medications in current inventory, and inform supervisors of stock needs and shortages.
- Restock intravenous (IV) supplies and add measured drugs or nutrients to IV solutions under sterile conditions to prepare IV packs for various uses, such as chemotherapy medication.
- Receive written prescription or refill requests and verify that information is complete and accurate.
- Maintain proper storage and security conditions for drugs.
Required Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Wages
In 2016 the mean hourly wage in the Greater Sacramento area was $20.55 . The hourly rate for this occupation typically paid between $13.99 and $28.80 .
In 2016 the mean annual salary in the Greater Sacramento area was $42,750.72 . The annual salary for this occupation typically paid between $29,085.51 and $59,905.80 .
Occupation Outlook
This occupation employed 2,190 people in the Greater Sacramento area during 2014.
By 2024, there is expected to be an increase of 21.9% in the number of jobs in the Greater Sacramento area for this occupation, bringing to total number to 2,670.
By 2024, in the Greater Sacramento area, the median hourly rate for this occupation is expected to be $19.00 with the median annual salary reaching $41,280.
