$30.52 to $38.22 per hour
Other benefits
Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA)
Pharmacy technician certificate or diploma
Pharmacy technicians play a key role in providing patients with quality health care services. They work closely with pharmacy assistants and pharmacists to ensure that the correct medication is prepared and delivered to the patients. The technicians are responsible for the technical and operational services in the Pharmacy Department.
Pharmacy technicians transcribe new medication therapy orders, changes or refills into patient files, and fill, prepare, and/or package the medications. Many technicians compound sterile products and may prepare specialty items such as epidurals, chemotherapy and investigational drugs. They work with pharmacy assistants to maintain records such as drug inventories, ward stock, and various drug registries, as well as place orders for stock to maintain inventory. Pharmacy technicians also ensure that the integrity of medications is maintained and equipment is in good condition and well-maintained.
Depending on their work setting, pharmacy technicians may have additional responsibilities in hospitals. They provide clinical support services such as completing medication histories, reviewing drug use and monitoring, basic drug information, and provide education. Some technicians lead special projects, hold management positions or assist in training students and new staff, and educate other healthcare providers about pharmacy-related matters.
Pharmacy technicians work primarily in hospital pharmacies. Pharmacy technicians work in a collaborative team with pharmacists and pharmacy assistants.
Pharmacy technicians may work full- or part-time hours, or on a call-in (casual) basis. They can apply for positions that are permanent, temporary or casual depending on department and facility needs. Shift schedules may include a combination of day, evening, weekend and holiday shifts, as well as on-call duty.
Pharmacy technicians may find themselves doing some lifting and pushing in their work and might sit or stand for long periods of time. As well, the job typically requires the performance of some repetitive tasks and motions. When handling and dispensing medications and other controlled items, pharmacy technicians must use caution to avoid causing harm to themselves and others.
