Are you interested in starting a healthcare career without spending years in school? Becoming a CVS Pharmacy Tech could be the perfect opportunity. As one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, CVS Health offers pharmacy technician positions across the country, providing excellent training, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about working as a CVS Pharmacy Technician, including job responsibilities, qualifications, training, salary expectations, and how to apply.
What Is a CVS Pharmacy Tech?
A CVS Pharmacy Tech (short for pharmacy technician) is a trained professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacy techs help process prescriptions, handle customer service, manage inventory, and ensure patients receive their medications safely and efficiently.
Working as a pharmacy tech at CVS means being part of a team dedicated to improving health outcomes and providing top-tier customer service. CVS Health has invested heavily in its pharmacy services, making it a great place to start or grow your career in healthcare.
Why Choose CVS to Start Your Pharmacy Technician Career?
1. Nationwide Opportunities
CVS has over 9,000 retail locations across the U.S., meaning there are pharmacy tech openings almost everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job or a full-time career, CVS offers flexible schedules and a variety of locations to fit your lifestyle.
2. On-the-Job Training
One of the biggest advantages of becoming a CVS Pharmacy Tech is that CVS offers comprehensive on-the-job training. You don’t need prior experience or certification to get started. Once hired, you’ll be trained to meet state and federal pharmacy regulations and prepare for certification if required in your state.
3. Pathways to Growth
CVS encourages career growth. Pharmacy techs can advance to roles such as Lead Pharmacy Technician, Pharmacy Operations Manager, or even transition into other areas of the healthcare field, such as nursing, clinical research, or pharmacy management.
4. Competitive Benefits
CVS offers a strong benefits package for pharmacy techs, including:
-
Health, dental, and vision insurance
-
Paid time off and holiday pay
-
Employee discounts
-
Tuition reimbursement and education support
-
401(k) retirement savings plans
CVS Pharmacy Tech Job Description
What Does a CVS Pharmacy Technician Do?
CVS pharmacy technicians perform a wide range of duties, such as:
-
Assisting pharmacists in preparing and dispensing prescriptions
-
Managing patient information and maintaining confidentiality
-
Operating pharmacy systems and handling insurance claims
-
Greeting and helping customers with prescription questions
-
Restocking medications and inventory management
-
Maintaining a clean and organized pharmacy environment
Skills Required for a CVS Pharmacy Tech Role
To succeed as a pharmacy technician at CVS, you should have the following skills:
-
Strong attention to detail
-
Good communication and customer service skills
-
Basic math and computer literacy
-
Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
-
A commitment to following healthcare and privacy regulations
How to Become a CVS Pharmacy Technician
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To apply for a CVS Pharmacy Tech position, you must:
-
Be at least 16 or 18 years old (depending on state regulations)
-
Have a high school diploma or GED (preferred)
-
Pass a background check
-
Be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
Step 2: Apply Online
Visit the official CVS Careers website and search for “Pharmacy Technician” positions in your area. You can filter results by location, job type (full-time or part-time), and experience level.
CVS offers entry-level roles such as Pharmacy Technician Trainee, which is a great starting point if you don’t have previous experience.
Step 3: Complete the Interview Process
If your application is successful, a CVS hiring manager will contact you for a phone or in-person interview. Be ready to discuss your interest in healthcare, customer service experience, and your ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Step 4: Start Training
Once hired, CVS will enroll you in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program. This program covers:
-
Pharmacy laws and ethics
-
Prescription processing
-
Medication safety
-
Inventory management
-
Insurance billing
Depending on your state, you may also be required to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
CVS Pharmacy Tech Certification: Is It Required?
CVS supports employees in becoming certified pharmacy technicians (CPhT) through organizations like PTCB or NHA. Certification is not always required to begin the job, but many states require certification within a certain time frame after employment.
CVS may reimburse the cost of certification exams and offer additional pay for certified technicians.
CVS Pharmacy Tech Salary and Benefits
How Much Does a CVS Pharmacy Tech Make?
The average CVS Pharmacy Tech salary ranges between $15 to $22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification. Entry-level trainees may start at a lower rate, but pay increases as you gain experience and certifications.
Benefits for CVS Pharmacy Technicians
-
Competitive hourly wages
-
Overtime opportunities
-
Medical and dental insurance
-
Paid training and certification reimbursement
-
Career advancement programs
CVS Pharmacy Tech Career Growth Opportunities
Once you gain experience, you can explore additional roles such as:
-
Lead Pharmacy Technician – Supervises other techs and assists in workflow management
-
Inventory Specialist – Oversees medication stock and vendor orders
-
Pharmacy Operations Manager – Handles scheduling, staffing, and compliance
-
Pharmacy Intern or Technician Trainer – Helps train new hires
-
Transition to Pharmacist – Some techs use the position as a stepping stone to pharmacy school
Tips for Succeeding as a CVS Pharmacy Tech
1. Stay Organized
Pharmacy environments are busy, and being organized will help you avoid mistakes and stay efficient.
2. Communicate Clearly
Whether you’re dealing with pharmacists, patients, or insurance reps, strong communication is key.
3. Continue Learning
Stay updated on pharmacy regulations, new medications, and company procedures. CVS offers continuing education resources to help you grow.
Final Thoughts on a CVS Pharmacy Tech Career
Working as a CVS Pharmacy Tech is more than just a job—it’s an entry into the healthcare industry. Whether you’re looking for a stable role with benefits or planning to build a long-term career in pharmacy, CVS offers the training, support, and growth opportunities to help you succeed.
