What does a Senior Pharmacy Technician do?

A senior pharmacy technician is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy. They may work in a hospital, retail, or clinical setting. Senior pharmacy technicians typically have more experience than entry-level technicians and may be responsible for supervising other technicians. They may also be involved in training new employees.

Senior Pharmacy Technician job duties include:

Maintaining records of patient profiles, including allergies, medications, and medical histories
Entering patient information and prescription orders into the computer
Preparing labels for and dispensing medications
Compounding medications
Packaging and labeling medications for dispensing
Maintaining inventory of medications and supplies
Ordering medications and supplies as needed
Answering phones and responding to inquiries from patients, doctors, and insurance companies
Assisting pharmacists in other tasks as needed

Senior Pharmacy Technician Job Requirements

A Senior Pharmacy Technician typically requires an Associate's degree in pharmacy technology, although some jobs may only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification as a pharmacy technician (CPhT) is generally required, and experience as a pharmacy technician is also preferred. Some Senior Pharmacy Technician positions may also require certification in a specialized area, such as compounding or nuclear pharmacy.

Senior Pharmacy Technician Skills

Inventory management
Ordering and receiving
Patient profiles
Insurance billing
Compounding
Dispensing
Supervising
Training
Sterile compounding
Unit dose packaging
IV admixture preparation

How to become a Senior Pharmacy Technician

In order to become a Senior Pharmacy Technician, one must first complete a certified pharmacy technician program and pass the national certification exam. After becoming certified, one must then obtain a state license. Once licensed, one must then complete on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. After completing on-the-job training, one can then take the Senior Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.