Pharmacist, prescriber

What does a pharmacist, pharmacy technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A pharmacist, pharmacy technician mainly works with dispensing medications, advising patients on medication use, and ensuring the correct medicine is provided properly. Tasks also include checking prescriptions, medication reviews, and contact with both customers and healthcare staff. The role involves significant responsibility for patient safety, requiring accuracy and good communication skills. The work is primarily conducted at pharmacies, but also within health centers, hospitals, or the pharmaceutical industry.

Salary development over time

Salaries for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians have steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,300 SEK per month and increased to 42 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen to 44 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 12.7 % over this period. This positive trend can be attributed to continued high demand for qualified pharmacists, increased requirements for competence in medication management, and a national focus on patient safety. Salary increases have also been driven by recruitment challenges for qualified pharmacy technicians, which has pushed up wages in certain regions and sectors.

Pharmacist, pharmacy technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 47,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 266 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 47 500 SEK, women 43 700 SEK (women earn 92 % of what men do)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a pharmacist, pharmacy technician, a post-secondary education focusing on pharmacy is required. The program covers both theoretical and practical aspects of medications, pharmacology, and counseling. The degree requirement is strictly regulated, and a license is issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after completing the education.

• Degree: Pharmacy technician diploma, 3 years (university-level education)
• License: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
• Practical training: Included as a mandatory part of the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies and specific requirements in science subjects
• Further education: Opportunities for master's or postgraduate studies in pharmacy

Common benefits and compensation

Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, staff discounts at pharmacies, and opportunities for professional development and further training. Working hours can be flexible, and there are sometimes evening and weekend shift premiums.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as pharmacists, pharmacy technicians is relatively low nationwide due to high demand for qualified personnel. At the same time, there is a paradoxical recruitment situation where many in the profession work part-time, leading to periodic recruitment difficulties for employers. A challenge is to meet increasing demands for counseling and patient safety as the role of pharmacies broadens. Technology development and digitalization of medication management are changing tasks and require ongoing skills development. Regional variations can affect job availability, especially in metropolitan areas where competition for attractive positions may be higher.

Tips for aspiring pharmacists, pharmacy technicians

To succeed as a pharmacist, pharmacy technician, it is good to be precise, have strong teamwork skills, and an interest in health and medicine. Developing excellent communication skills is crucial, as the job involves extensive patient contact and counseling. Engagement in science subjects facilitates studies and understanding of medication mechanisms. Flexibility and adaptability are necessary as the work environment can change rapidly, especially with new medication launches or procedural updates. A structured approach reduces mistakes and ensures correct dispensing. Being service-minded and attentive helps create trust with customers and patients. Finally, building a network within the industry early on can lead to career opportunities and further education.

Key facts about Pharmacist, pharmacy technician

• Education level: Pharmacy technician diploma, 3 years
• License: Required and issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
• Work environment: Pharmacies, health centers, and the pharmaceutical industry
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Common employment type: Permanent, but part-time work is common

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a pharmacist, pharmacy technician, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as pharmacy manager, clinical pharmacist, or specialist in medication information. Some choose to pursue further education to work in drug development or regulatory affairs within the pharmaceutical industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are large and expected to remain stable over the next five years. The shortage of qualified pharmacy technicians means employers often seek new staff, making the job market stable. Currently, there are approximately 375 job openings nationwide, reflecting continued high demand for skills.

Frequently asked questions about Pharmacist, pharmacy technician

• What does a pharmacist, pharmacy technician earn?
  - A pharmacist, pharmacy technician has an average salary of 44 300 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a pharmacy technician?
  - A three-year university degree in pharmacy, known as a pharmacy technician diploma, is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 47 500 SEK while women earn 43 700 SEK, which means women earn 92 % of what men do.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Which workplaces are most common for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians?
  - Most work in pharmacies, but also in health centers, hospitals, and the pharmaceutical industry.
• What is the lowest and highest salary in the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 39,900 SEK and the highest is 47,900 SEK per month.
• Is a license required to work as a pharmacy technician?
  - Yes, a license issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare is required after completing the education.