Your Guide to Landing Lucrative Travel Pharmacy Tech Jobs

Are you a skilled pharmacy technician with a passion for adventure? If so, the world of travel pharmacy tech jobs offers a unique opportunity to advance your career while exploring new places. These roles are in high demand across the country. Consequently, they provide competitive pay, excellent benefits, and unforgettable experiences. This guide will show you exactly how to get started.

What Exactly Are Travel Pharmacy Tech Jobs?

Travel pharmacy tech jobs are temporary positions, often called assignments or contracts. These typically last between 8 and 13 weeks. As a traveling tech, you fill in for staff shortages at various healthcare facilities. For instance, you could work in a bustling city hospital one month and a quiet community pharmacy the next.

These roles require you to be adaptable and quick to learn new systems. However, the variety keeps the work exciting and engaging. You get to apply your skills in diverse settings, which significantly broadens your professional experience.

The Top Benefits of Becoming a Traveling Pharmacy Technician

Choosing a career as a traveling pharmacy tech comes with numerous advantages. Many professionals find the lifestyle both professionally and personally rewarding. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Higher Pay Rates: Travel assignments generally offer higher hourly wages than permanent positions. This is because facilities are willing to pay a premium for skilled, temporary help. In addition, you often receive tax-free stipends for housing and meals.
• Explore the Country: This is the most obvious perk. You get paid to live and work in different cities and states. It is a fantastic way to travel without draining your savings.
• Enhanced Skills: Working in various environments exposes you to new technologies, procedures, and challenges. As a result, you become a more versatile and valuable technician.
• Professional Networking: Each new assignment connects you with a new team of pharmacists and healthcare professionals. This expands your professional network, which can open doors to future opportunities.

How to Find the Best Travel Pharmacy Tech Jobs

Finding the right assignment requires a strategic approach. You need to know where to look and how to present yourself as a top candidate. Fortunately, several resources are available to help you succeed.

Work with a Specialized Staffing Agency

The most effective way to find travel assignments is by partnering with a healthcare staffing agency. These companies specialize in connecting professionals like you with facilities that need help. A good recruiter will handle the logistics, including contracts, housing, and payroll. Therefore, you can focus on your work and your travels.

Polish Your Resume and Online Profiles

Your resume is your first impression. Make sure it highlights your certifications, experience, and adaptability. Also, maintain a professional LinkedIn profile. Recruiters actively search these platforms for qualified candidates. Emphasize your willingness to travel and your ability to learn quickly.

Key Requirements and Certifications You’ll Need

To qualify for travel pharmacy tech jobs, you must meet certain professional standards. While requirements can vary by state and facility, some are nearly universal. You will generally need:

• National Certification (CPhT): Most employers require certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
• State Licensure: You must be licensed in the state of your assignment. Your staffing agency can often help you with this process.
• Relevant Experience: At least one or two years of recent experience in a pharmacy setting is typically required.
• Strong References: Positive feedback from previous employers is crucial for landing competitive roles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much do travel pharmacy techs make?

Salaries vary based on location, specialty, and urgency. However, travel techs often earn significantly more than their stationary counterparts, especially when factoring in housing stipends and bonuses.

How long are typical assignments?

Most travel contracts are for 13 weeks. Although, you can find shorter assignments of 8 weeks or longer ones that extend up to 26 weeks. There is often an opportunity to extend your contract if you are a good fit for the facility.

Is housing provided?

Most staffing agencies offer two options. They can provide agency-arranged, furnished housing for you. Alternatively, you can take a tax-free housing stipend and find your own accommodations. This flexibility allows you to choose what works best for your lifestyle.