3212 — Pharmaceutical technicians

What this occupation covers

Pharmaceutical technicians work in hospitals or in the community and assist pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of drugs and medicines.

Typical duties

checks received prescriptions for legality and accuracy

prepares drugs and medicines under the supervision of pharmacist

prepares specialised, tailor-made drugs for intravenous administration by hospital medical staff

labels and checks items prior to dispensing

maintains records of prescriptions received and drugs issued

advises patients or customers on the use of drugs prescribed or medication purchased over the counter

checks stock levels, orders new stock from pharmaceutical companies and ensures that drugs are stored appropriately

Entry routes and qualifications

Entrants to training usually possess GCSEs/S grades or the equivalent. Training is typically a combination of practical experience and study at a college or by open learning towards vocational qualifications. An approved competency and an approved knowledge based qualification and two years’ experience is required to register as a pharmacy technician with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

Sponsorship information

Medium Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

Immigration Salary List: 3212 Pharmaceutical technicians – all jobs. Nations: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. Removal: 31 December 2026.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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