This post provides detailed information on the compounding pharmacy technician job description and career, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as templates employers can use.
It also highlight the major requirements and how to become a compounding pharmacy technician and advance your career, as well as the salary you can earn.
What Does a Compounding Pharmacy Technician Do?
The compounding pharmacy technician job description involves working with pharmacists to compound prescriptions to meet the patient’s special needs.
According to UEI College, pharmacy technicians do compound medication, and those who do so are called compounding pharmacy technicians.
Under the close supervision of pharmacists, compounding pharmacy technicians can carry out sterile and non-sterile compounding of medications ordered by a physician.
They do so by combining or processing various ingredients to arrive at a formulation that best serve the need of the patient, which they couldn’t get from the available drugs in the market.
For instance, in a case where it is difficult for a patient to take in medication in solid form, the pharmacist may compound the drug into liquid form so that it can be administered to the patient.
Another scenario that shows the importance of compounding medications is when a patient is found to be allergic to certain components of the drug that they need.
To eliminate the offensive ingredients from the medication, the pharmacist can compound the medication without the components the patient is allergic to.
To assist the pharmacist in this practice is where the compounding pharmacy technician comes in. Compounding pharmacy technicians are actually pharmacy technicians that have specialized in the area of formula preparation.
Over time on the job, they have garnered immense knowledge of all relevant compounding guidelines, such as and standards, and state compounding pharmacy law.
They have also gained enough skills and experience to ensure that quality assurance standards are maintained in product preparation and compounding procedures, as well as in packaging and labeling of products.
In some pharmacy, the job description of the compounding pharmacy technician also entails those tasks that the pharmacy technician would normally do, such as front desk duties.
Compounding Pharmacy Technician Job Description Example/Sample/Template
Below is an example of compounding pharmacy technician job description, showing a list of duties, tasks, and responsibilities an individual holding the position would be expected to perform as part of their job description:
- Weigh ingredients correctly and process them following the provided formula worksheet specifications
- Ensure correct formula preparation according to the prescription following quality assurance guidelines
- Make sure the pharmacist on duty has confirmed the formulation in accordance to the script before starting compounding preparation
- Ensure compounds are prepared in accordance to formulation and that all relevant compounding guidelines and quality standards are maintained
- Weigh and measure suitable chemicals to prepare different kinds of compounds including suspensions, creams, solutions, ointments, capsules, and suppositories
- Package and label prepared compounds in suitable dispensing tool
- Place and confirm that the beyond use date on the patient’s product label is correct
- Send prepared compound and documentation to supervising pharmacist for verification and sign off
- Ensure that all sterile products are tested following 795 & 797 requirements
- Execute quality assurance procedures on assigned randomly sampled scripts and document results following standards
- Responsible for daily cleaning and logs in accordance to established policy
- Perform daily confirmation that all equipment are working well, including capsule machines, counters, and cleaning balances
- Perform filling and unloading of the dishwasher
- Ensure all equipment, including freezer/fridge temperatures and weights on scales at work station are verified and maintained every morning
- Ensure that all relevant steps in each compound are verified with the supervising pharmacist
- Teach and mentor pharmacy technicians
- Take part in relevant training
- Take part in departmental meetings, as well as in relevant educational programs
- May be asked to handle special projects as well as perform other duties that may be assigned.
Compounding Pharmacy Technician Requirements: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Career Success
Here are key requirements, including knowledge, abilities, and skills most employers require from applicants vying for the position of compounding pharmacy technician:
- Two years and more experience working as compounding pharmacy technician
- State licensed Pharmacy Technician in good standing
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
- High school diploma
- Strong knowledge of and standards and all relevant USP compounding guidelines
- Ability to work according to all USP compounding standards
- Knowledge of State laws regulating pharmaceutical compounding practice
- Strong knowledge of product preparation, compounding, packaging and labeling as well as quality assurance standards
- High proficiency in computer usage
- Effective oral and verbal communication, with co-staff, pharmacists, and the public
- Strong ability to perform optimally in a team setting
- Ability to excel performing multiple tasks at the same time without making errors
- Yearly training in OSHA, HIPAA, and in pharmacy procedures and policies.
Compounding Pharmacy Technician Job Description Templates
Here are compounding pharmacy technician job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Compounding Pharmacy Technician
Reports To: Pharmacist-in-Charge / Lead Pharmacist / Pharmacy Manager
Location: [Your Pharmacy Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a specialized compounding pharmacy dedicated to preparing customized medications with the highest standards of accuracy, quality, and patient care. We serve [patients, clinics, veterinarians, long-term care facilities, or specialty practices] and pride ourselves on precision, safety, and exceptional service. Our team values integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes.
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Compounding Pharmacy Technician to prepare individualized prescriptions—including sterile, non-sterile, and specialty compounds—according to pharmacy guidelines and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate understands compounding processes, pharmacy operations, and strict quality assurance standards.
This role works closely with licensed pharmacists to ensure safe, accurate, and compliant preparation of compounded medications.
Key Responsibilities
Compounding & Preparation
- Prepare non-sterile and/or sterile compounded medications according to formula sheets and pharmacist instructions.
- Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients using proper compounding techniques and equipment.
- Prepare capsules, creams, gels, solutions, suspensions, injectables, suppositories, and other customized dosage forms.
- Maintain proper aseptic technique in cleanroom environments if preparing sterile compounds.
Quality Control & Safety
- Follow USP <795>, USP <797>, USP <800>, state regulations, and facility protocols.
- Perform calculations accurately and verify formula components before compounding.
- Document lot numbers, expiration dates, and compounding steps according to SOPs.
- Perform environmental monitoring, equipment calibration, and cleaning procedures.
Inventory & Equipment Management
- Maintain inventory of chemicals, APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients), containers, and supplies.
- Inspect, clean, and maintain compounding tools, mixers, hoods, and equipment.
- Notify supervisors when supplies need reordering or when equipment requires service.
Pharmacy Support
- Assist with labeling, packaging, and verifying medication details before final pharmacist check.
- Enter prescription data, update patient records, and assist with billing if needed.
- Answer phones and assist customers with professionalism while maintaining confidentiality.
- Support pharmacists in workflow management and daily operations.
Regulatory Compliance & Documentation
- Maintain accurate records for compounded preparations, beyond-use dates (BUDs), batch logs, and formulation worksheets.
- Adhere to HIPAA regulations and protect patient information.
- Follow all state board regulations and facility-specific SOPs.
Collaboration & Communication
- Work closely with pharmacists, compounding staff, and customer service teams.
- Communicate clearly about prescription issues, ingredient availability, or workflow concerns.
- Participate in training and competency assessments.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of compounding practices, pharmacy calculations, and aseptic technique.
- High attention to detail and strong accuracy in measurements and documentation.
- Ability to follow formulas, SOPs, and regulatory guidelines precisely.
- Strong math skills and familiarity with weight/volume conversions.
- Ability to work safely with chemicals, equipment, and cleanroom protocols.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Experience with pharmacy software is a plus.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Completion of a pharmacy technician training program preferred.
- Current state Pharmacy Technician license/registration required (as applicable by state).
- PTCB or NHA certification preferred or required based on state regulations.
- 1–3 years of compounding experience in sterile or non-sterile environments preferred.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Laboratory and cleanroom environments with exposure to chemicals, powders, and equipment.
- Requires standing, lifting up to 30–50 lbs., bending, and repetitive motions.
- Must wear PPE including gloves, masks, gowns, and hair coverings.
- Work schedule may include evenings, weekends, or overtime based on demand.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any protected category.
Additional Information
- This job description outlines key responsibilities but may include other duties as needed.
- Responsibilities may vary based on compounding type (sterile, non-sterile, veterinary, specialty).
- Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment drug screening, background checks, and skill assessments may be required.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Us
[Your Company Name] is a compounding pharmacy dedicated to providing customized medications with high accuracy, safety, and quality. We are seeking a skilled Compounding Pharmacy Technician to support our sterile and/or non-sterile preparation operations.
Job Summary
The Compounding Pharmacy Technician prepares customized medications by mixing, measuring, and assembling ingredients according to formulas and pharmacist instructions. This role ensures compliance with USP standards, maintains accurate documentation, and supports daily pharmacy operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare sterile and/or non-sterile compounded medications (creams, capsules, injectables, solutions, etc.)
- Follow USP <795>, <797>, <800>, and facility SOPs
- Perform accurate calculations, measurements, and documentation
- Maintain inventory, clean equipment, and follow safety protocols
- Assist with labeling, packaging, and pharmacy data entry
- Support pharmacists with workflow and compliance tasks
Qualifications
- State-licensed Pharmacy Technician required (if applicable)
- PTCB/NHA certification preferred
- Experience in compounding (sterile or non-sterile) strongly preferred
- Strong attention to detail, math skills, and ability to follow procedures
- Ability to work safely with chemicals and in cleanroom environments
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Conclusion
If you want to be successful working as a compounding pharmacy technician, then it is essential that you have the best qualifications possible.
With training and a positive attitude, you will soon be able to start working with a great employer, giving you the opportunity to make an impact on the medication and delivery systems in your community.
This post is helpful to individuals interested in the compounding pharmacy technician career, to learn all the need to know about the duties and responsibilities of the job and decide if the compounding pharmacy technician career is the right one for them.
It is also helpful to recruiters/employers needing to make a detailed job description for use in hiring for the compounding pharmacy technician position in their organizations.
They can apply any of the compounding pharmacy technician job description templates above in making one for their organizations.
