Pharmacy aides
SOC Code: 31-9095Also known as:
Certified Pharmacist Assistant, Dispensary Attendant, Drug Clerk, Drug Purchaser, Front Counter Clerk
Median Annual Salary
$37,000
-0.1% growth (2024-2034)
6K
Openings/Year
41K
Current Jobs
What Pharmacy aides Do
Record drugs delivered to the pharmacy, store incoming merchandise, and inform the supervisor of stock needs. May operate cash register and accept prescriptions for filling.
💰 Salary
$37,000
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-0.1%
Little or no change
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
6K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
41,100
Projected Employment (2034)
41,100
Related Careers
Pharmacy technicians
$43,460 •
+6.4% growth
Medical assistants
$44,200 •
+12.5% growth
Medical secretaries and administrative assistants
$44,640 •
+4.2% growth
Stockers and order fillers
$37,090 •
+8.5% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Speaking
Service Orientation
Reading Comprehension
Social Perceptiveness
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Greet customers and help them locate merchandise.
- Accept prescriptions for filling, gathering and processing necessary information.
- Operate cash register to process cash or credit sales.
- Answer telephone inquiries, referring callers to pharmacist when necessary.
- Receive, store, and inventory pharmaceutical supplies or medications, check for out-of-date medications, and notify pharmacist when inventory levels are low.
- Unpack, sort, count, and label incoming merchandise, including items requiring special handling or refrigeration.
- Restock storage areas, replenishing items on shelves.
- Maintain and clean equipment, work areas, or shelves.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do pharmacy aides make?
The median annual salary for pharmacy aides is $37,000.
What education do pharmacy aides need?
Most pharmacy aides positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming pharmacy aides a good career choice?
Pharmacy aides is projected to see -0.1% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 6,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for pharmacy aides?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to pharmacy aides?
Pharmacy aides may also be known as: Certified Pharmacist Assistant, Dispensary Attendant, Drug Clerk, Drug Purchaser, Front Counter Clerk, Pharmaceutical Assistant, Pharmacist Aide, Pharmacist Assistant, Pharmacist Helper, Pharmacist's Aide, Pharmacy Aide, Pharmacy Ancillary, Pharmacy Assistant, Pharmacy Cashier, Pharmacy Clerk, Pharmacy Helper, Pharmacy Intern, Prescription Clerk.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.