Training and education for pharmaceutical jobs can vary greatly depending on which field you are looking to enter. The majority of workers in these positions have at least a bachelor's degree and continue their education through training programs throughout their careers. Those who work in manufacturing plants may have little or no experience starting out but are trained on the job.
Working in pharmaceutical manufacturing is a constant endeavor, with many people working nights and weekends. The average work week is nearly 42 hours full-time. Those who work part-time may be subjected to working the night shift. More experienced workers with more seniority receive more favorable schedules. There are many professions in the pharmaceutical industry, such as chemists, inspectors, medical scientists, mixing and blending machine setters, chemical equipment operators, sales representatives, virologists, bacteriologists, organic chemists, pharmacy technicians, and many more. Each job is as important as the next in the manufacturing and distribution process.
Pharmacy technicians work in retail and grocery stores, fill out prescriptions, stock the merchandise, and generally assist the main pharmacist. Many pharmacy technicians are trained on the job, but most employers are looking for those with formal training in vocational schools or technical colleges. Pharmacy technicians can earn good wages, with the average starting salary at $11 per hour and reaching up to $18 per hour. Those who work part-time as pharmacy technicians versus full-time may receive early morning or late night schedules. Pharmacy technicians may work in a grocery store, pharmacy, or hospital, so the associated healthcare benefits may vary.
Pharmaceutical drugs are a billion-dollar industry, and the growth of this industry continues. Those who wish to look younger and achieve an overall better appearance with skin creams will see advancements in these drugs. The struggling economy may play a role in the purchasing of these drugs and healthcare products, but not to the extent that production will decrease.
With all these pharmaceutical drugs on the market there will be a need for sales representatives. These salespeople may become members of the National Association of Pharmaceutical Representatives, which provides training for those who seek a career in pharmaceuticals and continues education for those who are already employed. Pharmaceutical representatives must possess a high level of communication skills, demonstrated by answering detailed questions about their product and industry terminology, specifically how it works and why you should buy it. Many have to travel to various locations selling and promoting their product to hospitals and pharmacies. In general, a talented, well-spoken pharmaceutical salesperson can make or break the product. Also, salespeople receive commissions based on the number products they sell. If the drug sells well the buyer will continue to purchase more, which means continuous business.
Education for pharmaceutical sales representatives will vary depending on what type of product they will be selling, but a basic knowledge regarding guidelines, procedures, and complex technical terms is a must. This can be a very demanding job involving the constant pursuit of leads and traveling, so working part-time will be difficult to accomplish with any success. Being a salesperson at any level requires commitment and education to promote and sell the product.
Employment opportunities are set to increase over the next decade. As the population becomes older, the need for pharmaceutical drugs will rise and pharmacists will need more aid in distributing them. Whether you are looking for part-time of full-time work, the opportunities will be available. Those who wish to further their education are able to become certified by the Pharmacy Technician Board and the Institute for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. Participation in these organizations is on a voluntary basis and not required in all states for job placement.
The highest-earning jobs in pharmaceutical manufacturing include medical scientists, who earn nearly $40 per hour. Those who make the least include packaging and filling operators, who make a little more than $11 per hour. These who seek part-time work versus full-time work may not receive paid vacation time or healthcare benefits. Many companies require a worker to work a given number of hours per week to receive full benefits from the company. The benefit of working a part-time schedule is that it could give more opportunities to receive an education if the field of your interest while making good wages in the process. Overall, earnings in the pharmaceutical industry are higher than all other types of manufacturing.
Employment in the pharmaceutical industry will increase over the next decade. Most pharmaceutical drugs can be very expensive, and generic drugs are becoming more available at a cheaper price, which will spark competition. As the baby boomers become older they will drive the demand for over-the-counter and prescription drugs to improve their own health.
