Pharmacy Technician Schools in Oregon

Oregon is an excellent city for prospective pharmacy technicians for several reasons. Among other things, candidates can quickly and effectively launch a career as a pharmacy technician in the state without spending years and significant money at a 4-year university.

Below, we cover, as comprehensively as possible, the major areas candidates should prioritize for the best outcome. We explore educational arrangements, licensing and certification processes, career growth opportunities, and more.

We also discuss what individuals can expect regarding the annual salary brackets.

How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Oregon

The following is a step-by-step guide to launching a thriving career as a pharmacy technician in Oregon.

Transferable Skills & Foundational Requirements

Transferable skills such as communication, interpersonal skills, planning and organization, and computer literacy are important when starting a career as a pharmacy technician in Oregon. Individuals must meet a few basic requirements, including having a high school diploma or GED equivalent and being at least 18 years old.

Formal Training

Formal training ensures candidates have the technical and practical skills needed to succeed as pharmacy technicians. Candidates should always ensure they choose programs recognized by the relevant authorities and prepare for certification examinations.

The best programs also tend to offer flexibility. This can be achieved by enabling hybrid learning that combines on-campus and virtual classes.

We analyze some of the best options to consider in an upcoming section.

Practical Skills

A comprehensive pharmacy technician education doesn’t just involve classroom training; it also includes practical skills in the real world. This is why a lot of people participate in “on-the-job” training through either an internship or an externship before they secure full-time employment as pharmacy technicians.

Employment & Career Growth

Proper education and certification/licensing qualify individuals to secure employment as pharmacy technicians in Oregon. Candidates can continue to improve their careers through continuing education, networking, and by focusing on one area, such as laboratory or central pharmacy operations.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a sterile processing technician in Oregon

Licensure & Certification Requirements

In Oregon, anyone who has been properly trained can begin the process of registering with the appropriate state agency and obtaining a license to practice as a professional pharmacy technician. The Oregon Board of Pharmacy requires applicants to have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years old before registration can be completed.

Candidates must also pass a background check and demonstrate the required skills. The application process usually costs about $45.

For certification, anyone who has completed an approved program can pursue the Certified Pharmacy Technician credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. They can also pursue the National Healthcare Association’s credential.

Top Pharmacy Technician Schools in Oregon

Aspiring pharmacy technicians in Oregon can start their careers by completing any of the programs below.

Explore pharmacy technician schools in Oregon by city:

• Pharmacy technician schools in Portland

Salary & Career Outlook

In Lebanon, pharmacy technicians earn the highest average annual salary in Oregon. Those who work here earn an average annual salary of $70,612.

Other places with significant numbers include Corvallis ($56,440), Newport ($50,386), and Salem ($50,004).

Beyond location, a professional’s experience level, their specific work environment and focus areas, and the employer will also influence their annual compensation.

According to Indeed, pharmacy technicians in Oregon earn an average annual salary of $35,456 at the lower level, $48,378 at the mid-level, and $66,008 at the top.