25 Lead Pharmacy Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Pharmacy technicians are an important part of the pharmacy team. They work under the supervision of a pharmacist to dispense medication and other pharmaceutical products to patients. They also may be responsible for maintaining the pharmacy’s records and inventory.

If you’re looking for a pharmacy technician job, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. One way to prepare for this important meeting is to learn how to answer pharmacy technician interview questions before talking with an interviewer.

Employers look for pharmacy technicians who are trustworthy, reliable, well organized, and able to solve problems. You’ll also need physical strength and stamina, as well as knowledge of the best ways to clean different facilities and types of equipment. A pharmacy technician interview is your chance to show that you’ve polished these skills to a shine. To help you get ready, we’ve listed pharmacy technician questions and answers that will help you figure out what you want to say during an interview.

1. Are you familiar with the most common types of medication errors and how to prevent them?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your knowledge of pharmacy safety procedures. They want to make sure you have the skills and experience necessary to keep their pharmacy safe for customers. In your answer, explain how you would prevent common medication errors in a retail setting.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the most common types of medication errors and how to prevent them. As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, it is my responsibility to ensure that medications are dispensed accurately and safely. To do this, I have developed strategies for reducing medication errors such as double-checking all prescriptions before they are filled, verifying patient information, and ensuring accuracy when entering data into the computer system.

I also understand the importance of providing accurate instructions to patients about their medications. This includes making sure that the patient understands what the medication is for, how to take it, and any potential side effects or interactions. Furthermore, I always make sure to review the patient’s medical history prior to dispensing any medication in order to avoid any adverse reactions.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a pharmacy technician to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they relate to the job.

Example: “As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I believe the most important skills for any pharmacy technician to have are excellent customer service and communication abilities. As a lead technician, I understand that it is my responsibility to ensure that all customers receive the highest level of care and attention when they come into the pharmacy. Therefore, having strong interpersonal skills and being able to communicate effectively with both staff and customers is essential.

In addition, I also believe that a pharmacy technician should be organized and detail-oriented. In order to provide accurate medication information to customers, technicians must be able to accurately track patient records and keep up with inventory levels. Finally, a good understanding of pharmacology and medical terminology is necessary in order to properly answer questions from customers and assist them in making informed decisions about their medications.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a patient or customer is angry or upset about the wait time for their medication?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your customer service skills and ability to diffuse a situation. In your answer, try to highlight your interpersonal skills and how you would help the patient or customer feel more comfortable while they wait for their medication.

Example: “I understand how frustrating it can be to wait for medication, and I would handle the situation with empathy and understanding. First, I would listen attentively to the patient or customer’s concerns and acknowledge their feelings. Then, I would explain why there is a delay in getting their medication, such as if we are waiting on a prescription from the doctor or if there is an issue with insurance coverage. Finally, I would offer solutions that could help them get their medication sooner, such as offering to call the doctor’s office to expedite the process or helping them find alternate payment options. My goal would be to provide a resolution that meets both the patient’s needs and our pharmacy’s policies.”

4. What is your process for confirming that you have filled the correct prescription for a patient or customer?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you ensure accuracy in your work. Your answer should include a specific process for confirming prescriptions and ensuring that they are filled correctly.

Example: “My process for confirming that I have filled the correct prescription for a patient or customer begins with verifying all of the information on the prescription, including the name and dosage. I then double-check the medication against the doctor’s order to make sure it is accurate. Once I am confident that the prescription is correct, I will review any potential drug interactions or contraindications with the patient’s other medications. Finally, I will provide the patient with instructions regarding how to take the medication and answer any questions they may have.

I understand the importance of accuracy when filling prescriptions, as well as the need to ensure that patients are taking their medications safely and correctly. My attention to detail and commitment to providing excellent customer service makes me an ideal candidate for this Lead Pharmacy Technician position.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you identified a problem with a medication order and how you resolved it.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to identify errors in a patient’s medication order. Use examples from past experience where you used critical thinking skills to resolve an issue with a medication order or other task that helped improve the quality of care for patients.

Example: “I recently identified a problem with a medication order while working as a Lead Pharmacy Technician. The patient had been prescribed an incorrect dosage of a medication and the doctor had not been notified. I immediately took action to rectify the situation.

Firstly, I contacted the prescribing physician’s office to inform them of the error and request that they revise the prescription. Secondly, I worked with my team to ensure that the correct dose was dispensed to the patient. Finally, I documented all steps taken in our pharmacy system so that we could track any future issues with this particular medication.

Through my quick thinking and decisive actions, I was able to resolve the issue without causing any harm or disruption to the patient’s care. This experience has demonstrated my ability to identify potential problems and take appropriate action to address them.”

6. If a patient asked you about a medication that you don’t have any experience with, how would you respond?

This question is a great way to see how you would handle an unfamiliar situation. It’s important that pharmacists and technicians have experience with the majority of medications they dispense, but it’s also vital that they know when to refer patients to other medical professionals.

Example: “If a patient asked me about a medication that I don’t have any experience with, my first response would be to ensure that the patient is safe and has all of the information they need. I would explain that I am not familiar with this particular medication but I can help them find the answers they are looking for.

I would then research the medication in question, consulting reliable sources such as medical journals or reputable websites. Once I had gathered enough information, I would present it to the patient in an easy-to-understand way so that they could make an informed decision. Finally, I would follow up with the patient to make sure they understood the information I provided and answer any additional questions they may have.

As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I understand how important it is to provide accurate and timely information to patients. My ability to research and communicate effectively makes me confident that I am the right person for the job.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that a pharmacist on your team was making frequent medication errors?

Interviewers ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work as part of a team. In your answer, explain how you would approach the pharmacist in private and discuss what steps you would take to help them improve their performance or correct any mistakes they made.

Example: “If I noticed that a pharmacist on my team was making frequent medication errors, the first thing I would do is to assess the situation and determine the root cause of the errors. This could be due to lack of training or experience in certain areas, or it may be because they are overwhelmed with their workload.

Once I have identified the source of the problem, I would approach the pharmacist directly and discuss the issue in an open and non-judgmental manner. I believe that communication is key when addressing any kind of problem, so I would ensure that the pharmacist feels comfortable enough to express their concerns and receive feedback from me.

I would then work with the pharmacist to develop a plan for improvement. This could include additional training, more support from other members of the team, or even reducing their workload if necessary. Finally, I would monitor the pharmacist’s progress over time and provide ongoing feedback as needed.”

8. How well do you work under pressure? Can you provide an example of a time when you had to complete multiple urgent tasks?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to work under pressure and prioritize tasks. Use examples from previous experiences where you were able to complete urgent tasks while also managing other responsibilities.

Example: “I am very comfortable working under pressure and thrive in fast-paced environments. I have a lot of experience managing multiple tasks at once and staying organized to ensure that all deadlines are met. For example, when I was a Lead Pharmacy Technician at my previous job, I had to manage the daily operations of the pharmacy while also helping customers with their orders. During busy times, it was common for me to be juggling several urgent tasks simultaneously. Despite this, I always managed to complete each task on time and without compromising quality. My ability to remain calm and focused even during stressful situations has been an invaluable asset throughout my career.”

9. Do you have experience using pharmacy management software?

This question can help interviewers learn about your experience with technology and how you use it to complete tasks. If you have experience using pharmacy management software, explain what kind of software you used and the benefits of that system. If you don’t have experience using this type of software, you can still answer by describing other types of software you’ve used in the past.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience using pharmacy management software. During my time as a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I was responsible for managing the inventory and ordering process of our pharmacy. To do this, I used various types of pharmacy management software to track orders, manage stock levels, and generate reports. I am very comfortable with these systems and can quickly learn any new software that may be required in this role.

I also possess strong problem-solving skills which allow me to troubleshoot any issues that arise when using the software. In addition, I have excellent communication skills which enable me to effectively collaborate with other team members and ensure that all tasks are completed on time.”

10. When filling prescriptions, what is the maximum amount of medication you should add to a single container?

This question is a test of your knowledge about the proper procedures for filling prescriptions. It also tests your ability to follow instructions and adhere to regulations. In your answer, you should provide the correct information and explain why it’s important to do so.

Example: “When filling prescriptions, I always ensure that the maximum amount of medication added to a single container is within the limits set by the pharmacy. This includes checking for any potential drug interactions or contraindications that could cause adverse reactions in patients. As Lead Pharmacy Technician, I would also be responsible for ensuring that all other technicians are following this same protocol and adhering to safety standards.

I understand that when it comes to medications, accuracy is key. That’s why I take extra care to double check each prescription before adding any medication to a container. I am familiar with the various regulations regarding the amount of medication that can be safely dispensed at once, and I make sure to follow them closely.”

11. We want to improve our customer service capabilities. Can you provide an example of how you would improve customer service in this role?

Customer service is an important aspect of any role in the healthcare industry. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand how important it is and want to see what steps you would take to improve it. In your answer, explain a specific example of how you improved customer service in another role or with a previous employer.

Example: “As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I understand the importance of providing excellent customer service. My experience has taught me that customers appreciate prompt and knowledgeable responses to their questions and concerns. To improve customer service in this role, I would focus on training my team members to be more responsive and knowledgeable about our products and services. This could include developing protocols for handling customer inquiries, creating an FAQ page, or offering additional resources such as educational materials. In addition, I would ensure that all staff members are aware of any changes to policies or procedures so they can provide accurate information to customers. Finally, I believe it is important to create a positive atmosphere where customers feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their needs. By taking these steps, I am confident that we can improve our customer service capabilities.”

12. Describe your experience working with other pharmacy technicians.

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to collaborate. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you worked with another technician or pharmacist to solve a problem or achieve a goal.

Example: “I have worked with pharmacy technicians for the past five years in my current role as a Lead Pharmacy Technician. During this time, I have developed strong relationships and built an effective team of technicians who work together to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently and accurately.

I am experienced in training new technicians, assigning tasks, and providing guidance on how to complete them correctly. My experience has also enabled me to develop excellent communication skills which allow me to effectively communicate instructions and expectations to other technicians. Furthermore, I have been able to use my problem-solving abilities to quickly identify issues and come up with solutions.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this lead pharmacist technician position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and abilities as they relate to the job description.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this lead pharmacist technician position because of my extensive experience in the field. I have been a pharmacy technician for over five years and have worked in both retail and hospital settings. During this time, I have gained an in-depth understanding of medication dispensing, inventory management, customer service, and other aspects of pharmacy operations.

In addition to my technical knowledge and skills, I also possess strong leadership qualities. As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I have managed teams of up to 10 technicians and successfully trained new staff members. My ability to motivate and inspire others has enabled me to achieve excellent results in terms of productivity and accuracy. Furthermore, I have consistently demonstrated sound judgment when dealing with difficult situations and resolving conflicts.”

14. Which pharmacy software programs are you most familiar with?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine your experience with specific software programs. If you have previous experience working as a lead pharmacy technician, the interviewer may want to know which systems you used and how well you performed in those roles. When answering this question, list any software programs you are familiar with and explain what makes them useful for managing a pharmacy.

Example: “I am very familiar with a variety of pharmacy software programs, including Pharmacy Manager, Rx30, and QS/1. I have been using these programs for the past five years in my current role as Lead Pharmacy Technician. During this time, I have gained extensive experience troubleshooting issues that arise with each program, as well as training new employees on how to use them.

In addition to being proficient in the three aforementioned programs, I also have some knowledge of other popular pharmacy software programs such as AllScripts and Epic. Although I haven’t had much hands-on experience with these programs, I am confident that I can quickly learn the basics and become an expert user.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of customer service in a pharmacy?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you prioritize your work and what skills you use to provide excellent customer service. When answering, consider the specific needs of the pharmacy where you’re interviewing and highlight any relevant experience or training you have that can help you succeed in this role.

Example: “The most important aspect of customer service in a pharmacy is providing excellent patient care. As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I strive to ensure that all patients receive the highest quality of care and attention. This means taking the time to listen to their concerns, answering any questions they may have, and ensuring that their medications are dispensed correctly and on time. In addition, I believe it’s essential to be proactive when it comes to educating patients about their medications and helping them understand how to take them safely and effectively. Finally, I think it’s important to build relationships with patients so that they feel comfortable coming back for future visits. By doing these things, I am confident that I can provide an exceptional level of customer service in a pharmacy setting.”

16. How often should a pharmacy technician perform routine checks on equipment?

The interviewer may ask you this question to gauge your attention to detail and ensure that you are familiar with the best practices for maintaining equipment. Your answer should include a specific time frame, such as daily or weekly, and a list of checks you perform during these routine maintenance periods.

Example: “As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I understand the importance of regularly checking and maintaining equipment. To ensure that all pharmacy technicians are adhering to safety protocols and providing quality care, it is important to perform routine checks on equipment at least once a week. This includes inspecting machines for any signs of wear or damage, ensuring that all parts are functioning properly, and verifying that all medications are stored safely. Furthermore, it is essential to keep accurate records of these inspections so that any issues can be addressed promptly. By performing regular maintenance checks, we can ensure that our patients receive the best possible care.”

17. There is a discrepancy between the inventory count and the actual inventory. What is your response?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. Your answer should include a step-by-step process of how you would identify the discrepancy, determine its cause and implement a solution.

Example: “When I am presented with a discrepancy between the inventory count and actual inventory, my first response is to investigate the issue. I would begin by reviewing the records of the past few weeks to see if there are any patterns or discrepancies that could explain the difference. If necessary, I would also review the physical inventory to ensure accuracy.

Once I have identified the source of the discrepancy, I will work with the team to develop an action plan to address it. This may include implementing new procedures for tracking inventory, increasing staff training on proper inventory management techniques, or other measures as needed. My goal is to quickly identify and resolve the issue in order to maintain accurate inventory levels.”

18. Describe a time when you had to handle an angry customer and how you did it.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your customer service skills. They want to know how you would handle a challenging situation and if you have the ability to diffuse it. In your answer, try to show that you can remain calm in stressful situations and use your communication skills to resolve the issue.

Example: “I had a situation recently where an angry customer came into the pharmacy. He was upset because he felt that his prescription had been filled incorrectly. I took a few moments to listen to him and understand why he was so frustrated. After listening, I apologized for any misunderstanding and offered to look into it further.

I then went back to the pharmacy technician who had filled the prescription and asked them to double check the order. Once we confirmed that the prescription had indeed been filled correctly, I returned to the customer and explained what we had found. I also offered to answer any additional questions they may have had about their medication.

The customer eventually calmed down and thanked me for my help. This experience taught me the importance of being patient and understanding when dealing with difficult customers. It also showed me how important it is to take the time to listen to their concerns and address them in a professional manner.”

19. What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful pharmacy technician?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your personality and values. They want to know if you have the qualities they’re looking for in a lead technician. When answering, think of what’s most important to you personally when working as a pharmacy technician. Consider mentioning some of these qualities that you possess.

Example: “I believe that the most important qualities for a successful pharmacy technician are strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and an understanding of medication safety protocols.

Organizational skills are essential in order to keep track of medications and ensure accuracy when filling prescriptions. This includes being able to prioritize tasks, maintain accurate records, and manage time efficiently.

Excellent communication is also key. Pharmacy technicians must be able to communicate effectively with customers, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. They need to have good listening skills, as well as the ability to explain complex information clearly.

Lastly, it’s critical for pharmacy technicians to understand medication safety protocols. This means having knowledge of drug interactions, potential side effects, and proper storage techniques. It also involves following all applicable laws and regulations related to dispensing medications.

These qualities are what I bring to the table as a Lead Pharmacy Technician. With my experience and expertise, I am confident that I can help your pharmacy run smoothly and safely.”

20. How would you ensure that all prescriptions are filled in accordance with state regulations?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of state regulations and how you ensure that the pharmacy complies with them. Use examples from your experience to highlight your ability to apply regulations to your work, ensuring compliance and helping the pharmacy maintain its reputation as an ethical business.

Example: “As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, I understand the importance of ensuring that all prescriptions are filled in accordance with state regulations. To ensure this is done correctly, I would first review and become familiar with all applicable state laws and regulations. This would include becoming knowledgeable about any new changes or updates to those laws and regulations.

I would then create a system for tracking each prescription from start to finish. This would involve documenting when the prescription was received, who it was assigned to, and when it was completed. This would help me to monitor the progress of each prescription and make sure it is being handled properly.

Additionally, I would also provide regular training and education sessions to pharmacy technicians on how to fill prescriptions according to state regulations. This would ensure that everyone is up-to-date on the latest rules and guidelines. Finally, I would conduct frequent audits of prescriptions to verify that they were filled accurately and in compliance with state regulations.”

21. Describe your experience training new pharmacy technicians.

This question can help interviewers understand your leadership skills and how you might train other employees in the future. Use examples from past training experiences to highlight your communication, organization and teaching abilities.

Example: “I have extensive experience training new pharmacy technicians. In my current role as Lead Pharmacy Technician, I am responsible for onboarding and training all new pharmacy technicians. My approach is to provide a comprehensive overview of the job duties and expectations, while also providing hands-on guidance in the form of shadowing experienced technicians.

I ensure that each technician understands their responsibilities and can complete tasks with accuracy and efficiency. To do this, I create detailed training plans tailored to each individual’s learning style. This includes both classroom instruction and practical application. Once they are comfortable with the basics, I assign them more complex tasks and monitor their progress.”

22. How have you handled difficult conversations with customers or pharmacists?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your customer service skills. They want to know how you respond to challenging situations and whether or not you can resolve them quickly. In your answer, try to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate clearly with others.

Example: “I have had to handle difficult conversations with customers and pharmacists in my current role as Lead Pharmacy Technician. I believe that the key to successful communication is listening, understanding, and responding in a respectful manner. When faced with a challenging conversation, I always take time to listen to the customer or pharmacist’s concerns and try to understand their point of view. Once I have done this, I am able to respond in an appropriate way that addresses their needs while also maintaining professionalism. I strive to ensure that all parties involved feel heard and respected throughout the process. My experience has taught me how to effectively manage these types of conversations and I am confident that I can bring this skill set to your team.”

23. Can you describe a time when you identified a potential issue before it became a problem?

This question can help the interviewer determine your problem-solving skills and ability to identify potential issues before they become a major concern. Use examples from previous experience where you used critical thinking skills to solve problems or address concerns that could have negatively impacted the pharmacy’s operations.

Example: “Yes, I can. As a Lead Pharmacy Technician, it is my responsibility to ensure that the pharmacy runs smoothly and efficiently. Recently, while working at my previous job, I identified a potential issue with one of our processes before it became a problem.

I noticed that there was an inconsistency in how we were tracking our inventory levels. We had been using a manual system for some time, but I realized that this could lead to errors down the line if not addressed quickly. To address the issue, I proposed implementing a new automated system to track our inventory more accurately. My suggestion was accepted, and we implemented the new system without any issues or delays. This allowed us to avoid any problems related to inaccurate inventory tracking.”

24. If there is a disagreement between two pharmacy technicians, how will you resolve it?

This question can help interviewers understand how you resolve conflict and whether you are able to work with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation in which you resolved a disagreement between two people or helped someone else do so.

Example: “If there is a disagreement between two pharmacy technicians, I will first take the time to listen to both sides of the argument and understand each technician’s perspective. Once I have done this, I will work with them to come up with a solution that works for everyone involved. I believe in finding a win-win situation whenever possible.

I also think it’s important to be fair and impartial when resolving any disagreements. As Lead Pharmacy Technician, I would strive to remain unbiased while helping to find an agreeable resolution. My goal is to ensure all parties are satisfied with the outcome and that the issue does not arise again in the future.”

25. Describe a time when you provided excellent customer service.

Customer service is an important skill for a lead pharmacist technician. Employers ask this question to learn more about your customer service skills and how you apply them in the workplace. When answering this question, think of a time when you helped a customer solve a problem or provided excellent care to someone who needed it.

Example: “I take great pride in providing excellent customer service. One example of this was when I worked as a Lead Pharmacy Technician at my previous job. A patient had come into the pharmacy to pick up their medication and they were having difficulty understanding how to use it correctly.

I took the time to sit down with them and explain each step of the process clearly and thoroughly, making sure that they understood every aspect of taking their medication. After our conversation, the patient thanked me for my help and said that they felt much more confident about using their medication properly. This made me feel proud that I was able to provide such excellent customer service and make a difference in someone’s life.”