Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Pharmacy Technician Trainee Roles – 2025

Preparing for a pharmacy technician trainee job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your technical skills, communication abilities, and experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Whether you’re applying for a role at a retail pharmacy, hospital, or long-term care facility, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about your experience in the pharmacy industry.
  Answer: I have completed a Pharmacy Technician training program and have also gained hands-on experience through an internship at a local pharmacy. I have been interested in the pharmaceutical field for a long time and have developed a strong understanding of how pharmacies operate and the role of a pharmacy technician.
• 2. What do you know about our company and its values?
  Answer: I know that your company values providing exceptional customer service and delivering quality healthcare products to your customers. Your company also values teamwork and fostering a positive work environment for employees.
• 3. How would you handle a difficult customer in the pharmacy?
  Answer: I would remain calm and try to understand the customer's concerns. I would listen actively and empathetically and try to find a solution to their problem. If needed, I would involve a pharmacist for assistance and try to provide exceptional customer service to resolve the issue.
• 4. How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment?
  Answer: I would prioritize tasks based on their level of urgency and importance. I would also consider the needs of customers and ensure that their needs are met in a timely manner. I am accustomed to working in a fast-paced environment and can manage my time effectively to complete tasks efficiently.
• 5. How do you handle pressure or stress in the workplace?
  Answer: I believe in maintaining a positive attitude under pressure and handling stress by staying organized and focused. I prioritize tasks and communicate effectively with my team to ensure that all duties are completed efficiently. I also practice self-care outside of work to manage stress effectively.

Behavioral Questions

• 6. Tell me about a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a coworker or supervisor.
  Answer: During my internship, I had a disagreement with a coworker about the best way to organize medication in the inventory. We had differing opinions, but I approached the situation calmly and respectfully. Through effective communication and compromise, we were able to come up with a solution that satisfied both of us.
• 7. Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult situation with a customer.
  Answer: During my time at the pharmacy, a customer became agitated and refused to follow the instructions on their prescription. I remained calm and tried to understand the issue, and then clearly and respectfully explained the instructions to the customer. I was able to diffuse the situation and provide them with the assistance they needed.
• 8. Can you share an example of a time when you had to multitask while working on a project?
  Answer: While working on a group project during my training program, I had to answer phone calls, process orders, and assist customers at the same time. I effectively prioritized tasks and communicated with my team members to ensure that we completed the project on time.
• 9. Have you ever made a mistake at work? If so, how did you handle it?
  Answer: During my internship, I accidentally entered the wrong dosage information for a customer's prescription. I took immediate responsibility for my mistake and communicated the issue to the pharmacist. I also apologized to the customer and made sure to double-check all information before completing any tasks in the future.
• 10. Describe a time when you had to take initiative and show leadership in a team setting.
  Answer: During my training program, I noticed that the pharmacy had a disorganized storage system for medications. I took the initiative to suggest a new organizational method and coordinated with my team members to implement the new system. This resulted in a more efficient workflow and improved overall organization in the pharmacy.

Situational Questions

• 11. If a customer is seeking a medication that is out of stock, what would you do?
  Answer: I would first apologize for the inconvenience and then offer to transfer the prescription to a different pharmacy or check if it can be ordered for next-day delivery. If there is no other option, I would inform the customer and suggest consulting with the pharmacist for potential alternatives.
• 12. How would you handle a situation where a customer receives the wrong medication?
  Answer: I would apologize to the customer and explain the error. Then, I would immediately notify the pharmacist and follow their instructions to rectify the mistake. I would also offer assistance and support to the customer and ensure that they receive the correct medication as soon as possible.
• 13. If a customer is confused about their medication instructions, what would you do?
  Answer: I would first review the instructions and confirm with the customer if they have any specific concerns or questions. If needed, I would involve the pharmacist to ensure that the customer fully understands the instructions. I would also offer to provide written instructions or additional resources for clarification.
• 14. How would you handle a situation where you are unable to find a customer's prescription records?
  Answer: I would first check with my coworkers to see if the records may have been misplaced or check if there was an error in inputting information. If the records are still not found, I would apologize and politely ask the customer for additional information or documentation to verify their records. I would also inform the pharmacist for further assistance.
• 15. If a customer is experiencing a side effect from their medication, what steps would you take?
  Answer: I would first reassure the customer and then notify the pharmacist immediately. I would also inquire about any allergies or other medications the customer is taking. If necessary, I would contact the doctor or recommend the customer seek medical attention. I would also document the incident for future reference.

Technical Questions

• 16. What is the difference between a brand name and generic medication?
  Answer: A brand name medication is developed and marketed by a specific pharmaceutical company while a generic medication is made by a different company after the patent for the brand name medication expires. Generic medications are equivalent in dosage and effects but may contain different inactive ingredients.
• 17. How do you calculate the correct dosage for a prescription?
  Answer: To calculate the correct dosage, you need to know the concentration of the medication, the amount prescribed, and the route of administration. You multiply the concentration by the amount prescribed and then convert to the appropriate measurement based on the route of administration.
• 18. What is the difference between a tablet and a capsule?
  Answer: A tablet is a solid form of medication that usually contains active and inactive ingredients compressed into a specific shape and size. A capsule is a gelatin shell filled with powdered or liquid medication. Capsules can also be in an extended-release form.
• 19. How would you handle a situation where you are low on a certain medication in the inventory?
  Answer: I would first check the prescription history to ensure that the medication is not in high demand due to regular customers. Then, I would inform the pharmacist and assist in ordering more medication. If necessary, I would also suggest alternatives for the customer.
• 20. How do you handle controlled substances in the pharmacy?
  Answer: Controlled substances are highly regulated and require strict protocols for storage, dispensing, and record-keeping. I am familiar with the relevant laws and regulations, and I follow the established procedures to ensure proper handling and accuracy in record-keeping to prevent any potential errors or legal issues.