10 answers
Vicky
Student
5
Questions
Asked
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How to get a pharmacy technician job without any degree or experience?
Hello!
I’m an incoming freshman, about to attend college this fall. Therefore, I have no experience or degree for any medical field yet. However, I searched online and saw that you don’t need experience working as a pharmacy technician in a retail store, sometimes even in hospital. I’m in a pre nursing major, and it has nothing to do with pharmacy except that they both are medical related field. I thought I could try applying for some retail jobs in CVS and/or Walgreen and get those pharmacy tech skills. But I got rejected both times when I applied. I think they mostly want people with experience working in the position. Do you know what I can do to maybe increase the likelihood of getting into there? I heard if I start out working as a cashier in CVS, there’s a more likelihood that I can be promoted to working in the pharmacy area. Is it true? I’m not as serious about pharm tech jobs as of right now, that’s why I wanna try working there to see if I like this job or not. Thank you!
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10 answers
Sky Robinson
Pharmacy Technician
2
Answers
Salem, Ohio
Updated
Sky’s Answer
Hi! I’m a certified pharmacy technician, I’ve been working in the pharmacy for over 3 years now. I did not have previous pharmacy experience when I started either. I work for Walmart. They have a tech in training program that is on hands training in the pharmacy and schooling that is done on the clock. I had applied to a few different locations before hearing back. I actually called my store to check on my application multiple times. I know my store is super helpful with anyone who is in school. And once you finish the program they pay for your first exam attempt (PTCB). I also think it’s a hard time if the year to get hired. We lose hours during the summer and they pick up around fall due to flu season. If you have a Walmart near you- I’d suggest giving the pharmacy a call. Plus they’re base pay is pretty decent.
Thank you for your reply! I feel like if I call other independent pharmacy stores, they will want a more skilled pharmacy technician who has experience. So I think I will stick to walgreen, Walmart, and CVS, since it’s already known that they would accept no experience worker. The one I applied for is the apprenticeship one, but I guess it’s hard to get in.. Still, thank you for your help!
Vicky
John Woollard
General Manager
58
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
John’s Answer
You definitely have the right idea about starting as a cashier and moving over once the position becomes available. That being said I would urge you to be clear about what your goal and intention is and to closely watch for openings as it is entirely possible for it to open and close without you even realizing it. Just keep in mind that if you are already working there then you are interviewing every single day you show up to work. Managers promote people they already trust far more readily than outside applicants, so being a reliable cashier who expresses interest in the pharmacy is a genuinely strong path. Tell your manager early and often that pharmacy is where you want to grow. That way when a spot opens, you are the obvious pick.
On the rejections, do not take them personally. Direct pharmacy tech roles often want people who already have or are getting their state certification, which is likely why. You could look into whether your state lets you get certified as a tech, since even being in progress makes you far more competitive.
For the front-store application, lean on reliability and customer service in how you present yourself, since that is what they actually hire for at entry level. And since you are testing whether you even like the field, starting up front is perfect, low pressure and a real look inside before you commit.
You have the right idea! Get in the door, do great work, and make your interest known!
On the rejections, do not take them personally. Direct pharmacy tech roles often want people who already have or are getting their state certification, which is likely why. You could look into whether your state lets you get certified as a tech, since even being in progress makes you far more competitive.
For the front-store application, lean on reliability and customer service in how you present yourself, since that is what they actually hire for at entry level. And since you are testing whether you even like the field, starting up front is perfect, low pressure and a real look inside before you commit.
You have the right idea! Get in the door, do great work, and make your interest known!
Mary Ehrgott
Pharmacist in HIV specialty setting
35
Answers
Newtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Best advice? Get certified as a pharmacy technician…. No degree necessary, however you may have to study to prepare for certification exam… there are short pharmacy tech training programs (2 weeks-2 years depending upon work goals) The three main options are on-the-job training, certificate or diploma programs, and associate degrees to prepare you for the test as well as future career, be it in retail or hospital setting.
Examples: Online & Self-Paced: Programs like Penn Foster or Stepful offer flexible online coursework combined with optional or mandatory clinical externships. Local Colleges: Institutions like community colleges provide localized didactic instruction and preparation for national exams.Retail On-the-Job: Major chains like Walgreens provide structured internal training paths that blend work experience with instructional modules.
Best of luck!!
Examples: Online & Self-Paced: Programs like Penn Foster or Stepful offer flexible online coursework combined with optional or mandatory clinical externships. Local Colleges: Institutions like community colleges provide localized didactic instruction and preparation for national exams.Retail On-the-Job: Major chains like Walgreens provide structured internal training paths that blend work experience with instructional modules.
Best of luck!!
Thank you for replying! I will check out the self passed program website out! I agree that the retail site will provide the training, but the hard part is to actually be accepted into the job… but thank you for your help!
Vicky
ANTHONY SYLVESTER
School counselor
33
Answers
Onitsha, Anambra, Nigeria
Updated
ANTHONY’s Answer
Here's the advice I would give as a counselor:
You're thinking about this in a smart way. Since you're still an incoming college freshman, employers don't expect you to have years of experience. What they do want is someone who is reliable, willing to learn, and genuinely interested in healthcare.
Starting as a cashier or front-store associate at a company like CVS or Walgreens can indeed be a good pathway. Many pharmacy technicians began in front-store roles and later transferred into the pharmacy after demonstrating a strong work ethic and expressing interest to their managers. While it isn't guaranteed, it is a common career path.
You can also improve your chances by:
Tailoring your résumé to highlight customer service, volunteer work, leadership, or any experiences that show responsibility,even if they're unrelated to healthcare.
Writing a brief cover letter explaining that you're a pre nursing student eager to gain healthcare experience and willing to complete any required pharmacy technician training.
Applying to independent pharmacies, grocery,store pharmacies, and local hospitals in addition to large retail chains. Smaller employers may be more willing to train motivated beginners.
Earning a pharmacy technician certification if it's affordable and recognized in your area. While not always required, it can make your application stand out.
Visiting the pharmacy in person (when appropriate) to introduce yourself professionally and ask whether they hire trainee pharmacy technicians. A positive first impression can sometimes make a difference.
Don't be discouraged by a few rejections. Large employers receive many applications, and timing often plays a role. Keep applying, continue building your customer service and communication skills, and gain any healthcare-related experience you can. Even roles such as medical receptionist, patient care assistant, or hospital volunteer can strengthen your résumé and support your future goal of becoming a nurse.
Remember, your long-term objective is nursing. A pharmacy technician job is a valuable stepping stone, but it isn't the only one. Focus on gaining meaningful healthcare experience, developing professionalism, and doing well in your studies. Those will open many doors throughout your career.
You're thinking about this in a smart way. Since you're still an incoming college freshman, employers don't expect you to have years of experience. What they do want is someone who is reliable, willing to learn, and genuinely interested in healthcare.
Starting as a cashier or front-store associate at a company like CVS or Walgreens can indeed be a good pathway. Many pharmacy technicians began in front-store roles and later transferred into the pharmacy after demonstrating a strong work ethic and expressing interest to their managers. While it isn't guaranteed, it is a common career path.
You can also improve your chances by:
Tailoring your résumé to highlight customer service, volunteer work, leadership, or any experiences that show responsibility,even if they're unrelated to healthcare.
Writing a brief cover letter explaining that you're a pre nursing student eager to gain healthcare experience and willing to complete any required pharmacy technician training.
Applying to independent pharmacies, grocery,store pharmacies, and local hospitals in addition to large retail chains. Smaller employers may be more willing to train motivated beginners.
Earning a pharmacy technician certification if it's affordable and recognized in your area. While not always required, it can make your application stand out.
Visiting the pharmacy in person (when appropriate) to introduce yourself professionally and ask whether they hire trainee pharmacy technicians. A positive first impression can sometimes make a difference.
Don't be discouraged by a few rejections. Large employers receive many applications, and timing often plays a role. Keep applying, continue building your customer service and communication skills, and gain any healthcare-related experience you can. Even roles such as medical receptionist, patient care assistant, or hospital volunteer can strengthen your résumé and support your future goal of becoming a nurse.
Remember, your long-term objective is nursing. A pharmacy technician job is a valuable stepping stone, but it isn't the only one. Focus on gaining meaningful healthcare experience, developing professionalism, and doing well in your studies. Those will open many doors throughout your career.
Thank you for your reply! I will keep in mind about showing more of my customer service and volunteering work in my resume and applying to multiple locations.
Vicky
Dianna Soto
Non Sterile Pharmacy Technician
53
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Dianna’s Answer
It depends on which state you live in. In Florida, (depending on your employer) they can help you to get all the education you need and hours you need to complete getting your pharmacy license and diploma, to be able to work in the pharmacy. Being certified in pharmacy is a test from the board that most other states do require you have before being allowed to be hired. Big pharmaceutical companies like CVS and Walgreens want experience that meets the state’s requirements. If you have a Publix in your state, they can have you go through all the training and testing requirements. First, they will place you in a different department once hired, and you have to remind the pharmacy manager that you really want to be in the pharmacy, for them to get you in once there is an opening. I think Walmart does the same as Publix. Most independent pharmacies might hire with no experience, for you to be trained. They will have a lot of hoops for you to go through before getting any training. They might have you start with delivering all medications orders for the whole day.
Definitely, do your research for your state before anything. Most people start in pharmacy, then medical assistant, then nursing to be well trained understand the full fundamentals of medicine and caring for patients.
Hope this helps.
Definitely, do your research for your state before anything. Most people start in pharmacy, then medical assistant, then nursing to be well trained understand the full fundamentals of medicine and caring for patients.
Hope this helps.
Thank you for replying! But in order to get the help needed from the employer to train and do the exam, I need to first get accepted into the position first. Which I still aren't able to. But, thank you for your advice!
Vicky
Autumn Posey
Pharmacy Operations Manager
1
Answer
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Autumn’s Answer
So I currently work for Walgreens as an operations manger! You can always apply to be a designated hitter thats one way to move into the pharmacy. Or a lot of states are sitting up a position for a pharmacy cashier going into this flu season. Those are really good options because if you stand out they will offer you a position in the actually pharmacy!
Shelly Lin
Forensic Consultant
81
Answers
Sturbridge, Massachusetts
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
Based on what you've shared, I think your approach is reasonable. Many retail pharmacies hire entry-level pharmacy technicians and provide on-the-job training, although competition can be strong depending on the location. Starting as a cashier or front store associate at a pharmacy and expressing interest in transferring to the pharmacy department can be a practical pathway, but it is not guaranteed. To improve your chances, tailor your resume to highlight customer service, attention to detail, reliability, and any healthcare-related coursework or volunteer experience. Since you're an incoming pre-nursing student, emphasize your interest in healthcare and willingness to learn. Persistence is important, as many candidates apply multiple times before receiving an opportunity.
Thank you for your reply! I also agree based on you and others comments, that I should start out as cashier or associate positions. I will also try to emphasize my customer service skills on my resume. Thank you!
Vicky
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1425
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Vicky,
Yes, it's possible to become a pharmacy technician without prior experience, but it often depends on the employer and your state's requirements. Many retail pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, hire entry-level candidates and provide on-the-job training, although competition for these positions can be high.
Starting as a cashier or customer service associate is a realistic strategy. Many employees begin in a front-store role, demonstrate reliability and a strong work ethic, and later transfer into the pharmacy when positions become available. It's not guaranteed, but it does happen.
You can also strengthen your application by highlighting transferable skills such as customer service, communication, attention to detail, teamwork, and your interest in healthcare. Since you're a pre-nursing student, be sure to mention that in your resume and cover letter. It shows employers that you're committed to a healthcare career and eager to learn.
If your state offers a pharmacy technician trainee or registration program, consider applying for it. Some employers prefer candidates who have already started the registration process, even if they haven't completed formal training.
Lastly, don't be discouraged by a couple of rejections. Entry-level healthcare positions often receive many applications. Keep applying to different retail pharmacies, independent pharmacies, hospitals, and grocery store pharmacies. Sometimes it's simply a matter of applying when the right opening becomes available.
I think exploring pharmacy before committing to it is a smart idea. Whether you continue toward nursing or discover that pharmacy is a better fit, the experience will give you valuable insight into working in healthcare.
Best wishes!
Yes, it's possible to become a pharmacy technician without prior experience, but it often depends on the employer and your state's requirements. Many retail pharmacies, such as CVS and Walgreens, hire entry-level candidates and provide on-the-job training, although competition for these positions can be high.
Starting as a cashier or customer service associate is a realistic strategy. Many employees begin in a front-store role, demonstrate reliability and a strong work ethic, and later transfer into the pharmacy when positions become available. It's not guaranteed, but it does happen.
You can also strengthen your application by highlighting transferable skills such as customer service, communication, attention to detail, teamwork, and your interest in healthcare. Since you're a pre-nursing student, be sure to mention that in your resume and cover letter. It shows employers that you're committed to a healthcare career and eager to learn.
If your state offers a pharmacy technician trainee or registration program, consider applying for it. Some employers prefer candidates who have already started the registration process, even if they haven't completed formal training.
Lastly, don't be discouraged by a couple of rejections. Entry-level healthcare positions often receive many applications. Keep applying to different retail pharmacies, independent pharmacies, hospitals, and grocery store pharmacies. Sometimes it's simply a matter of applying when the right opening becomes available.
I think exploring pharmacy before committing to it is a smart idea. Whether you continue toward nursing or discover that pharmacy is a better fit, the experience will give you valuable insight into working in healthcare.
Best wishes!
Thank you for your reply! I will keep in mind next time, if possible, of my transferable skills such as customer service. And I think being a cashier first doesn’t help. So I was thinking of reapplying or applying to other locations to see if I can get in as cashier. Thank you for your advice!
Vicky
You're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Najjiyya Pinkney
Occupational Therapy Assistant & Occupational Therapy Graduate Student
60
Answers
Indian Trail, North Carolina
Updated
Najjiyya’s Answer
ou can get a pharmacy technician job without experience, but you usually need to show employers you’re motivated and ready to learn. The easiest path is to start by getting a pharmacy technician certification (like the PTCB) or at least completing the free study modules. Being “PTCB‑eligible” makes your application stronger. Many retail pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) hire beginners if they see you’ve already started the certification process. Another common route is exactly what you mentioned: starting as a cashier or front‑store associate and then transferring into the pharmacy once you’ve shown reliability. This is a real and common pathway. You can also increase your chances by applying to multiple locations, asking to speak with the pharmacy manager, and highlighting customer‑service skills, accuracy, and interest in healthcare. Since you’re exploring the field, getting your foot in the door through certification or a front‑store role is the best way to see whether pharmacy work is a good fit.
Thank you for your reply! I will take note of the certificate thing and starting out with the front store role!
Vicky
Akasha Ali
Student Researcher and Peer Advisor
25
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Akasha’s Answer
Hi Vicky,
You're thinking about this in a smart way. Many pharmacy technicians do start without prior experience, but because these positions are competitive, employers often chose applications who have customer service or retail experience.
Starting as a cashier or store associate at CVS or Walgreens can absolutely help. Many employees transfer in to the pharmacy after demonstrating reliability, strong customer service, and a willingness to learn. Let your manager know early that you're interested in becoming a pharmacy technician so they can keep you in mind when opportunities arise.
You can also strengthen your application by:
* Highlighting any customer service, volunteer, or leadership experience on your resume.
* Applying to multiple pharmacies, including independent pharmacies, grocery store pharmacies, and hospitals that hire entry level technicians.
* Looking in to your state's pharmacy technician registration or certification requirements, as completing the registration or earning a certification (if applicable) can make you a more competitive candidate.
Don't be discouraged by the rejections many people apply several times before getting their first opportunity. Your interest in healthcare and your pre nursing background will be an advantage as you continue gaining experience.
Best of luck with college and your career!
You're thinking about this in a smart way. Many pharmacy technicians do start without prior experience, but because these positions are competitive, employers often chose applications who have customer service or retail experience.
Starting as a cashier or store associate at CVS or Walgreens can absolutely help. Many employees transfer in to the pharmacy after demonstrating reliability, strong customer service, and a willingness to learn. Let your manager know early that you're interested in becoming a pharmacy technician so they can keep you in mind when opportunities arise.
You can also strengthen your application by:
* Highlighting any customer service, volunteer, or leadership experience on your resume.
* Applying to multiple pharmacies, including independent pharmacies, grocery store pharmacies, and hospitals that hire entry level technicians.
* Looking in to your state's pharmacy technician registration or certification requirements, as completing the registration or earning a certification (if applicable) can make you a more competitive candidate.
Don't be discouraged by the rejections many people apply several times before getting their first opportunity. Your interest in healthcare and your pre nursing background will be an advantage as you continue gaining experience.
Best of luck with college and your career!
Thank you for your reply! I agree with your advice of putting emphasis on my customer service skills and applying to multiple locations. Thank you!
Vicky