An In-Depth Guide to Finding Remote Pharmacy Technician Jobs
Are you a pharmacy technician looking to take your career to the next level? Have you thought about working remotely? With so many businesses offering remote opportunities, it can be overwhelming to decipher which jobs are legitimate and which aren’t. But don’t worry – this guide is here to make finding remote pharmacy technician jobs much more accessible! Here we cover everything from crafting an effective resume and portfolio, where to look for job postings, and best practices when interviewing virtually. So if you’re ready to learn more about kick-starting your journey toward a successful remote pharmacy tech career, read on!
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy Technicians are essential healthcare team members, providing valuable assistance to Pharmacists. Pharmacy Technicians perform various tasks related to preparing and dispensing medication, like counting tablets, labeling bottles, placing orders for medications and refills, and operating drug-distribution software. In addition, they often manage customer service activities such as answering phone calls from customers and providing medication information.
A pharmacy technician generally requires completing an accredited certificate program or associate’s degree in pharmacy technology. However, certifications for practicing pharmacy technology vary by state. Many states require their technicians to become certified through a specialized program approved by the Board of Pharmacy or its designated governing body. As a result, pharmacy technicians can expect job growth of over 9% until 2028 – making it an increasingly popular career path!
What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
A pharmacy technician’s job role involves many different tasks, including but not limited to the following:
- Assisting pharmacists with filling prescriptions;
- Checking for accuracy when interpreting doctors’ orders;
- Entering customer or patient information into computer software programs;
- Compounding medications;
- Answering customer inquiries regarding medications;
- Restocking shelves with medications; and
- Handling insurance paperwork.
To become a certified pharmacy technician, one must have some basic educational requirements. These include completing an accredited program from an approved school or college and passing an exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). This exam covers topics such as reading prescriptions, understanding drug interactions, medical terminology, and more. Upon successful exam completion, prospective pharmacy technicians will receive certification from the NHA that allows them to practice in most states.
Additionally, most employers require applicants to have at least one year of experience working in a retail setting or similar environment before becoming a pharmacy technician. This helps ensure applicants adequately know customer service procedures and pharmacy operations. Furthermore, it also provides that they can competently handle any requests or questions that come their way while on the job.
Benefits of Working Remotely as a Pharmacy Technician
In the field of pharmacy, remote work is becoming increasingly popular. Remote pharmacy technicians provide a valuable service and can benefit from various perks only available remotely. Let’s take a look at seven of the benefits that come with remote pharmacy technician jobs.
1. Flexible Scheduling
One of the most significant advantages of working as a remote pharmacy technician is having more control over your schedule. This means you can work when it works best for you and your family without worrying about scheduling conflicts or commuting times. Additionally, if you need to take some time off, working remotely is much easier because there’s less paperwork involved in taking time off from a remote job than from an in-person appointment.
2. Reduced Overhead Costs
Working remotely eliminates many overhead costs associated with traditional employment, such as office supplies, equipment, and utilities. All you need is an internet connection and access to electronic medical records (EMR) software to get started—and most employers will provide this for you!
3. Increased Data Security
By accessing EMR software, remote pharmacy technicians can securely store patient data and ensure it remains confidential. This increases the security of sensitive information while reducing the risk of errors due to manual data entry or other mistakes made by staff members who may not be as well-versed in HIPAA data regulations as they should be.
4. Greater Accessibility
Remote pharmacy technicians can provide their services to more clients than those limited by geographical location or transportation barriers—which means more potential business opportunities for those willing to take advantage of them! Furthermore, with EMR software, pharmacists can monitor prescriptions more efficiently and accurately than ever, improving customer service levels exponentially compared to traditional care delivery models.
5. Professional Development Opportunities
Working remotely allows pharmacists more time for professional development by eliminating tedious tasks such as driving back and forth between pharmacies or stocking shelves manually every day (all everyday tasks required of in-person technicians). This allows them to focus on continuing education courses or pursue certification programs which could potentially lead them into higher-paying roles over time!
6. Use Of Technology
With access to EMR software, remote pharmacy technicians can use technology such as barcode scanners or voice recognition software, which would otherwise be unavailable if they were limited by geography or transportation issues when working in person at a physical location (this also increases accuracy levels!). Moreover, they can use digital devices such as tablets or smartphones while on the job to stay connected with colleagues even when away from their desktops!
7. Improved Quality Of Life
Finally, one of the main benefits associated with being able to work remotely is improved quality of life overall due to increased flexibility and convenience factors associated with it – no more commuting long distances during traffic hours each day – plus peace at home so you can dedicate yourself fully towards your professional pursuits without distraction!
Working remotely as a pharmacist offers many advantages over traditional jobs, including.
- Flexible scheduling
- Reduced overhead costs
- Increased data security
- Greater Accessibility
- Professional development opportunities
- Use of technology
- Improved quality of life overall
If you’re looking for an exciting new career path that offers these benefits while providing valuable services within the healthcare industry, consider becoming a certified Pharmacy Technician today!
Types of Remote Pharmacy Technician Positions
Remote pharmacy technician positions come in many different forms. However, the most common types of minor roles include the following:
1. Telepharmacy:
This role involves communicating with patients, doctors, and other healthcare providers to determine their medication needs and provide them with the necessary information. This position is perfect for those comfortable interacting with various individuals and enjoying being part of an interconnected healthcare system.
2. Order Entry:
This role involves entering customer orders into a computer system and processing them for shipping or pick-up from a pharmacy. It requires attention to detail, accuracy in data entry, and basic knowledge of drugs and medicine.
3. Dispensing Technician:
This role involves filling and checking prescriptions, preparing medication labels, and educating patients about their medications. It requires knowledge of drug terminology, the ability to work quickly and accurately, and excellent customer service skills.
4. Compounding Technician:
This role requires creating custom patient medications based on a physician’s instructions. It requires knowledge of chemistry and pharmacy calculations, as well as a sensitivity to the needs of individual patients.
5. Inventory Management:
This type of role involves maintaining records of medication inventory, ensuring that the proper medications are in stock, and ordering new supplies when needed. It requires attention to detail, accuracy in data entry, and a basic understanding of the drug supply chain.
6. Home Delivery Technician:
This role involves delivering medications to patients’ homes by mail or in person. It requires a valid driver’s license, strong customer service skills, and an understanding of the proper procedures for handling and transporting medications.
No matter the remote pharmacy technician role you choose, staying up-to-date on industry news and regulations is essential to ensure that you provide the best service possible for your patients. With hard work and dedication, a remote pharmacy technician position can be a good career path.
How to Find Remote Pharmacy Technician Jobs?
Finding a remote pharmacy technician job in the US can be an exciting opportunity for individuals who want to work from home. The key is to know where to look and how to apply for the position successfully.
- First, search online job boards such as Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor for available positions. Make sure you include “remote” in the search criteria to filter out places that are not remote. Also, look for companies that offer remote work options, such as CVS Health, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
- Next, create a resume tailored explicitly to pharmacy technician positions, and make sure you include your pharmacy experience and any related certifications or qualifications.
- Use LinkedIn to network with pharmacists and other pharmacy technicians who can refer you to job openings.
- Also, consider joining professional organizations such as the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These associations often have job postings or can help connect you with employers looking to hire pharmacy technicians.
- Finally, take the time to research the position and company before applying and make sure it is a good fit for you. Then, when submitting your application, including any questions or specific information about the position that could help your application stand out from the others. Additionally, don’t forget to follow up with potential employers after submitting your application.
By following these steps and using the right resources, you should be able to find a remote pharmacy technician job in the US.
Companies That Offer Remote Pharmacy Technician Jobs in the US
1. Walgreens
Working as a pharmacy technician remotely is becoming increasingly popular in the US. Many pharmacy benefits managers, including Walgreens, now offer remote pharmacy technician jobs to qualified individuals nationwide. As a pharmacy technician, you will support pharmacists across different settings by performing tasks such as preparing and maintaining patient records, distributing medications, and providing support services to pharmacy staff members. Working remotely offers many advantages over traditional pharmacy technician jobs, including flexibility of hours and the ability to work from home. With pharmacy technician jobs becoming more prevalent among pharmacy benefits managers like Walgreens, it’s never been easier for qualified individuals to find employment opportunities in this sector.
2. CVS
CVS is one of the leading pharmacy benefits managers in the United States, offering pharmacy technician supports to many customers within their network. The company offers pharmacy technician jobs that can be done from a remote location and provides employees with the necessary resources and tools to complete their tasks. CVS pharmacy technicians can perform various job roles, such as verifying prescriptions, processing prescriber orders, and monitoring data for accuracy. All pharmacy technicians must hold a high school degree or equivalent before employment. However, certain CEO states may require you to possess additional qualifications depending on the position.
3. Walmart Pharmacy
Walmart Pharmacy offers front-line customer support and specialty pharmacy services from the convenience of a remote job. The company provides remote work opportunities for registered and certified pharmacy technicians. Benefits include competitive compensation, paid time off, 401k savings plans, health insurance coverage, and educational assistance, to name just a few. Working remotely with Walmart Pharmacy offers the unique chance to make an impact on a global yet local scale.
4. Express Scripts
Express Scripts is a company that specializes in offering remote pharmacy technician jobs in the US to registered pharmacy technicians. Their online platform allows a registered pharmacy technician to assist customers and healthcare professionals politely and professionally. With Express Scripts, registered pharmacy technicians get an opportunity to work with a wide range of patients and have access to some of the latest technologies and services in the market.
In addition, registered technicians can customize their experience by selecting flexible hours according to their preferred schedules. This way, they get to practice their profession while balancing other commitments such as parentage or other jobs. Express Scripts offers registered pharmacy technicians myriad opportunities that help them grow professionally while maintaining their desired lifestyle.
5. Humana Pharmacy
Humana Pharmacy is one of the national leaders for pharmacy technician jobs in the United States. In addition, they operate a nationwide customer care center and provide compassionate care emphasizing behavioral health services. Humana Pharmacy understands that Pharm Techs are responsible for accurate data entry, medication distribution, and adherence tracking, making them essential to patient care. This company offers remote careers that ensure these dedicated professionals can provide detailed and patient-focused care without compromising technical standards or quality service.
6. OptumRx
OptumRx is one of the many companies offering remote pharmacy technician jobs in the US. As part of its operations, it utilizes a team of licensed and certified pharmacy technicians to handle inbound telephone inquiries about prescription services and other pharmacy benefit inquiries for members, providers, and pharmacists. In addition, these technicians work with medical information and manage medication checking and order entry. OptumRx also allows its team to have flexible hours and stay true to its core mission – providing best-in-class service to its customers.
7. AllianceRx Walgreens Prime
AllianceRx Walgreens Prime is one of the many companies in the US offering remote pharmacy technician job opportunities, with pharmacy technician registration being required by many states for all pharmacy technicians.
By working remote jobs, pharmacy technicians can provide professional phone assistance to answer customer inquiries and questions related to their medication needs and fill prescription orders according to processes set by each state, pharmacy, and insurance company.
This provides an excellent opportunity for pharmacy technicians to broaden their careers while helping people across the US receive needed medications.
8. Kroger Health
As part of the well-known retail grocery chain, Kroger Health offers healthcare solutions and existing services. As one of the top pharmacy providers in the United States, Kroger Health is an excellent option for those seeking a remote pharmacy technician job. They offer holistic health and wellness solutions and versatile healthcare services across many divisions, including pharmacies, health clinics, health labs, and health insurance. As a result, Kroger Health represents an exceptional opportunity for aspiring pharmacy technicians looking to make a difference in the health care system from home.
9. Cardinal Health
Cardinal Health offers remote pharmacy technician jobs across the United States. Supporting documentation systems and tool integration for members and their core services assist in managing and monitoring health outcomes and providing superior service. Cardinal Health also prides itself on its partnership with pharmacies and other healthcare providers, allowing them to receive preferred costs, which helps control the overall cost of treatments by reducing costs while maintaining high quality. This ensures that members receive the best care regardless of location or financial status.
10. UnitedHealth Group
The UnitedHealth Group stands out amongst the companies that offer remote pharmacy technician jobs in the US. This multibillion-dollar healthcare leader has offices nationwide and provides employees with competitive benefits packages and salaries. The position requires technicians to have experience working with medication systems and performing administrative duties such as filing insurance paperwork and working with medical coding systems. Working remotely offers flexibility for career growth combined with some of the best benefits in the industry, making it an attractive option for pharmacy technicians looking for work-life balance opportunities.
The Necessary Requirements for This Type of Job
With the rise in telemedicine and remote healthcare services, many pharmacies seek certified pharmacy technicians to join their teams. If you’re considering a career as a remote pharmacy technician, it’s essential to understand the qualifications and education requirements for these roles. Let’s discuss what you need to know about becoming a remote pharmacy technician.
Education Requirements
The most basic requirement for remote pharmacy technicians is an active pharmacy technician licensure from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). To obtain this license, applicants must have completed at least one year of formal training in the field of pharmacy technology and passed the PTCB exam with a score of 75% or higher. Additionally, some states may have additional educational requirements, such as on-the-job training or completion of an accredited program.
Qualifications
In addition to formal education and licensure, there are several other qualifications that prospective remote pharmacy technicians should possess. This includes strong customer service skills, attention to detail, communication abilities, and computer literacy. Some employers may also prefer candidates familiar with medical terminology and with experience using electronic health records systems (EHRs). Furthermore, since they will be dealing with sensitive medical information remotely, they will need to be able to maintain patient privacy according to HIPAA regulations.
Experience Requirements
The amount of experience required will vary depending on the employer’s needs. However, having prior experience working in the pharmacist profession is beneficial when applying for remote positions. Suppose you do not have any previous experience as a pharmacist technician but can demonstrate relevant knowledge and skills through your education or certification program. In that case, employers may still consider you for available positions.
Working as a remote pharmacy technician requires specialized qualifications and education requirements, such as an active PTCB certification and familiarity with medical terminology. In addition, employers may also look for candidates with excellent customer service skills, computer literacy, and any relevant experience in the field of pharmacology. By understanding what it takes to become a remote pharmacy technician, you’ll be better prepared when applying for available positions in this growing field!
Tips for Preparing Your Resume and Application Materials
A pharmacy technician must have a solid resume and application materials to land her dream job. If you’re in the market for a remote pharmacy technician role, there are several things you can do to make sure your resume and application stand out from the crowd. Here are five tips for getting it right.
1. Use Keywords
Many employers today use automated tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for relevant keywords and phrases before passing them on to recruiters. To ensure your resume makes it through the ATS filter, include words related to pharmacy technicians in your summary, work experience, and skills sections. This will help increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and hiring managers.
2. Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a remote pharmacy technician, it’s essential to highlight any technical skills you possess, such as medical terminology or experience with medical software programs like EPIC or Cerner. These skills can set you apart from other candidates who may not have the same technical expertise.
3. Highlight Your Communication Skills
Working remotely requires excellent communication skills. Your resume and application materials emphasize these. For example, talk about how you effectively communicate with colleagues over video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Slack. Consider how you’ve effectively collaborated with different organizational departments despite being located remotely.
4. Showcase Your Flexibility
Employers are looking for remote workers who can adjust quickly when things change or unexpected tasks arise during their workday, so showcasing your flexibility on your resume and in the interview process is essential. For example, talk about how you’ve been able to manage multiple tasks at once. Consider how well you can pivot when needed without losing sight of the big-picture goals of the organization you work for.
5. Don’t Forget Soft Skills
Even though much of what remote pharmacy technicians do involves technical skills, don’t forget about soft skills! Talk about how well-rounded you are by highlighting qualities such as problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, organizational skills, etc., which will demonstrate that you have what it takes to succeed in this role, even while working remotely from home or another location outside of an office setting.
Getting hired as a remote pharmacy technician isn’t easy, but having a solid resume and application materials can help give employers confidence in your abilities and increase your chances of landing an interview—or, even better yet—the job! By following these five tips for preparing the perfect resume and application materials for roles as remote pharmacy technicians, you’ll be one step closer to achieving success in this competitive field!
Tips for Nailing Your Remote Pharmacy Technician Interview
Are you looking to land a remote pharmacy technician position? Interviewing for this type of job is similar to any other interview, with the added challenge of being conducted remotely. Read on for five tips to help you ace your following remote pharmacy technician interview.
1. Do Your Homework:
Before your interview, make sure you’ve done your research on the company and the position. This can help you better prepare for the questions that may be asked during the interview and show potential employers that you are serious about getting the job. Additionally, check out the company website and look at previous job postings to understand what skills and qualifications they prefer in potential hires.
2. Prepare Your Technology Ahead of Time:
Nothing is worse than technical difficulties during a job interview. So make sure all your technology—computer, phone, headphones, etc.—is working properly before your scheduled appointment time. Make sure nothing gets in the way of delivering an impeccable performance.
3. Pay Attention to Your Appearance:
How you present yourself can say much about your professional identity. Even though it’s a remote interview, dress like it’s in-person! You can also use props or accessories such as a blazer or scarf to add personality to your appearance while still dressing professionally. Additionally, make sure that whatever background or area you choose behind you looks neat and professional. No one wants to see piles of laundry during an important job interview!
4. Speak Clearly & Confidently:
Make sure your voice comes across clearly and confidently over the phone or computer microphone so potential employers can hear precisely what kind of person they would be hiring if they offered you the job. Also, practice speaking slowly and maintaining eye contact (with yourself if necessary!) when answering difficult questions – this will help boost your confidence which will come across in your voice during the interview session!
5. Practice Answering Common Questions Ahead of Time:
Several common questions are often asked during pharmacy technician interviews. Hence, it’s important to practice how you would answer them beforehand so there won’t be any surprise answers when it comes time for your interview session!
Some common questions include “what do you know about our company?” “Why should we hire you?” “what have been some challenges in past positions?” “tell us about a time when… ?” etc., etc. Knowing how best to answer these questions ahead of time can help boost your confidence and ensure everything goes smoothly during the session!
Landing any job is hard, but landing a remote pharmacy technician position requires extra preparation due to its unique setup compared to formal interviews. Be sure to do research into both the company and potential questions beforehand. Also, make sure all technology works appropriately before starting. Please pay attention to appearance. Speak clearly and confidently throughout. Practice answering common questions ahead of time – all these tips combined should give any candidate looking for this type of position their best chance at success!
Final Thoughts – Remote Pharmacy Technician Jobs
Although finding a remote pharmacy technician job may seem daunting at first, with the proper research and preparation, you will be well on your way to landing your dream role. Please read our other blogs for more information on job hunting and interview tips. Good luck with your following remote pharmacy technician interview! Thanks for reading!