Pharmacy technician

Pharmacy technicians prepare prescription items, check that prescriptions are legal and accurate, and help people understand their medicines. They work under a pharmacist's supervision and refer more complex questions to the pharmacist.

These are approximate UK figures for guidance only, not guaranteed salaries. Pay varies by employer, location and experience. Source: National Careers Service, checked November 2026 (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/pharmacy-technician).

1. Build GCSE-level English, maths and science
2. Apply for a Level 3 apprenticeship or trainee technician role
3. Complete the required training and qualification
4. Register with the General Pharmaceutical Council

A degree isn't the usual route. The National Careers Service lists the Pharmacy Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, including training with the NHS and armed forces. Advanced apprenticeships usually ask for 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, or equivalent, including English and maths. For trainee pharmacy technician jobs, employers often ask for 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 including English, maths and science, a Level 2 Diploma in Applied Science, or equivalent. The trainee route involves 2 years of on-the-job training towards the Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians. You then register with the General Pharmaceutical Council and pass enhanced background checks.

Routes vary. Always check entry requirements with course providers, employers and the relevant professional body.

Not usually required

Main routes in: GCSE, Apprenticeship, Other routes.

• English
• Maths
• Science
• Computing

• Attention to detail
• Numeracy
• Customer service
• Active listening
• Clear communication
• Teamwork
• Administration
• Computer skills

• Community pharmacy
• Hospitals
• Health centres
• Prisons

Your day could include preparing medicines, checking prescriptions, ordering stock through computer systems and answering customer questions. Handling confidential information carefully is part of the job. You could work in a hospital, health centre, prison or pharmacy shop, with a uniform and protective clothing where needed. The National Careers Service lists 37 to 40 hours a week, with evenings, weekends and bank holidays on a rota possible.

You could become a lead pharmacy technician or department manager, or specialise in clinical work, oncology, paediatrics or clinical trials. Other options include pharmaceutical production, research and development, or training others. Becoming a pharmacist needs further study.