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Entry Level Pharmacy Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Tech

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

This entry-level role is designed for individuals beginning their pharmacy career, providing hands ... Must obtain Pharmacy Tech certification from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy within 12 months of ...

New

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Trainee

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This entry-level role is designed for individuals beginning their pharmacy career, providing hands ... Must obtain Pharmacy Tech certification from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy within 12 months of ...

New

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Trainee

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This entry-level role is designed for individuals beginning their pharmacy career, providing hands ... Must obtain Pharmacy Tech certification from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy within 12 months of ...

UnityPoint Health

Pharmacy Technician Trainee

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This entry-level role is designed for individuals beginning their pharmacy career, providing hands ... Must obtain Pharmacy Tech certification from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy within 12 months of ...

New

All JobsPharmacy Tech JobsEntry Level Pharmacy Tech JobsEntry Level Pharmacy Tech Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Pharmacy Tech information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$18

$24

How much do entry level pharmacy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level pharmacy tech in Iowa is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level pharmacy tech?

Entry level pharmacy techs are healthcare professionals who assist pharmacists in dispensing prescription medication to customers or health professionals. They perform tasks such as measuring medication, labeling prescriptions, managing inventory, and handling customer inquiries. Entry level positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training may be provided. Some states require certification or registration, but requirements vary. This role is an excellent starting point for those interested in a pharmacy or healthcare career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level pharmacy tech?

To thrive as an Entry Level Pharmacy Tech, you need a solid understanding of pharmacy operations, basic pharmacology, and attention to detail, often supported by a high school diploma and completion of a pharmacy technician training program or certification (such as the PTCB). Familiarity with pharmacy management systems, prescription processing software, and inventory management tools is commonly required. Strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work accurately under supervision help set you apart in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring medication safety, efficient workflow, and excellent patient service within a pharmacy environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level pharmacy techs in their first year, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level pharmacy technicians often face challenges such as mastering pharmacy software, learning medical terminology, and balancing accuracy with speed in a busy environment. Building strong communication skills is essential for interacting with both pharmacists and customers. New technicians can overcome these challenges by asking questions, seeking feedback from experienced colleagues, and staying organized. Most pharmacies provide on-the-job training and mentorship, which can help smooth the transition and foster confidence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pharmacy Tech vs Pharmacy Technician?

AspectEntry Level Pharmacy TechPharmacy Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a pharmacy technician certification or registrationUsually requires certification or registration, with more advanced certifications available
Work EnvironmentRetail pharmacies, hospitals, or clinics, often in training or entry rolesSame environments, with increased responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with medication dispensing, customer service, and administrative tasksHandling medication preparation, inventory management, and more complex tasks

Entry Level Pharmacy Techs are often new to the field, focusing on basic tasks and gaining experience. Pharmacy Technicians may have more experience or certifications, taking on additional responsibilities. Both roles are essential in pharmacy settings, with the main difference being experience level and scope of duties.

How to get started as an entry level pharmacy tech?

To start as an entry-level pharmacy tech, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a pharmacy technician training program. Many states require passing a certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), and obtaining a license or registration before working in a pharmacy setting. Developing skills in pharmacy software and customer service can also improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmacy Tech jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Pharmacy Tech jobs in Iowa are:

Entry Level Pharmacy Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pharmacy Tech job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,640 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Pharmacy Tech

UnityPoint Health

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

  • Area of Interest: Pharmacy

  • FTE/Hours per pay period: 1.0

  • Department: Pharmacy

  • Shift: Days with rotation to nights, for 80 hours per pay period. There is a holiday and weekend rotation.

  • Job ID: 181717

Overview

Shift: Full-time, days with rotation to nights, for 80 hours per pay period. There is a holiday and weekend rotation.

The Pharmacy Technician Trainee supports hospital pharmacy operations under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This entry-level role is designed for individuals beginning their pharmacy career, providing hands-on training in medication preparation, distribution, and pharmacy workflow within a clinical environment. The trainee will develop the skills and knowledge needed to become a certified pharmacy technician while contributing to safe and effective patient care.

Why UnityPoint Health?

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.   Here are just a few:    

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program .

  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.

  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family .

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

Responsibilities

  • Assist pharmacists in preparing, labeling, and distributing medications for inpatient and outpatient units

  • Learn and perform sterile and non-sterile compounding procedures in compliance with safety standards

  • Accurately fill medication orders and maintain proper documentation

  • Deliver medications to nursing units and automated dispensing systems

  • Manage inventory, including stocking, rotating, and checking expiration dates

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant pharmacy workspace

  • Follow all hospital policies, state regulations, and safety protocols

  • Provide courteous and professional support to healthcare staff

Qualifications

Education:

  • High School Diploma/GED

Certificate/Licensure:

  • Within 30 days of hire, registration with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy as a Technician Trainee is required.

  • Must obtain Pharmacy Tech certification from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy within 12 months of starting employment as a Trainee.

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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