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Pharmacy Aides

SOC 31-9095.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers front-end retail pharmacy aide practice across customer service, prescription intake support, cash handling, telephone management, inventory receiving and control, merchandise stocking, and equipment maintenance in community and institutional pharmacy settings.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Customer greetings and merchandise location — provide under direct supervisor guidance in a retail pharmacy setting.
  2. Prescription intake forms — gather basic patient information following established protocols at the pharmacy counter.
  3. Cash register operations — process cash and credit transactions with supervisor oversight during standard pharmacy hours.
  4. Incoming telephone inquiries — answer using approved scripts and refer callers to the pharmacist when questions exceed scope.
  5. Pharmaceutical supply shipments — unpack, sort, and count incoming items following written instructions in the pharmacy stockroom.
  6. Medication labels and package markings — read and recognize basic information under pharmacist direction during receiving tasks.
  7. Shelf restocking procedures — replenish over-the-counter items following planogram guides with direct supervision.
  8. Work area and equipment surfaces — clean and maintain according to posted sanitation schedules in the pharmacy workspace.
  9. Inventory location records — enter basic stock data into pharmacy database software with step-by-step guidance.
  10. Refrigerated and special-handling items — identify and separate during merchandise sorting under direct pharmacist or supervisor direction.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Customer service interactions — assist and direct customers independently across the retail pharmacy floor with routine product questions.
  2. Prescription intake processing — gather, verify, and enter patient and insurance information into the pharmacy system with minimal oversight.
  3. Cash and credit sales transactions — operate the register accurately and resolve common discrepancies during busy pharmacy shifts.
  4. Telephone call management — screen, respond to general inquiries, and route clinical questions to the pharmacist efficiently.
  5. Pharmaceutical inventory levels — monitor stock, flag low quantities, and notify the pharmacist using inventory tracking software.
  6. Incoming merchandise workflow — unpack, sort, label, and route items requiring refrigeration or special handling to correct storage areas.
  7. Shelf and storage area replenishment — restock and rotate products following FIFO principles in the pharmacy retail section.
  8. Out-of-date medication checks — conduct routine expiration reviews and segregate expired stock for pharmacist disposition.
  9. Pharmacy equipment and work areas — clean and maintain consistently according to departmental hygiene and safety standards.
  10. Spreadsheet and office suite software — record inventory counts and generate basic stock reports in support of pharmacy operations.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Customer needs assessment — interpret and respond to complex or sensitive customer requests independently across all areas of the retail pharmacy.
  2. Prescription intake accuracy — review gathered information for completeness and flag discrepancies to the pharmacist before processing proceeds.
  3. Multi-tender transaction processing — manage high-volume cash, credit, and insurance copay transactions accurately during peak pharmacy periods.
  4. Telephone triage and escalation — evaluate caller needs, resolve non-clinical questions, and escalate appropriately using sound professional judgment.
  5. Full inventory cycle management — receive, store, count, reconcile, and report pharmaceutical supplies using database and spreadsheet software.
  6. Special-handling merchandise compliance — ensure refrigerated, controlled, and hazardous items are processed and stored according to regulatory requirements.
  7. Inventory shortage and overstock situations — identify root causes and coordinate corrective restocking actions with pharmacy management.
  8. Cross-functional coordination — align stocking, cleaning, and customer service tasks to support uninterrupted pharmacy workflow without direct supervision.
  9. Expiration and quality control monitoring — implement a systematic schedule for reviewing all product categories and document findings for pharmacist review.
  10. Pharmacy aide onboarding support — demonstrate correct procedures and software tools to newly hired staff during day-to-day operations.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Pharmacy aide team performance — guide, coach, and evaluate team members to uphold accuracy, compliance, and customer service standards across all shifts.
  2. Operational workflow design — develop and refine front-end and stockroom procedures that improve efficiency and reduce error rates in the pharmacy environment.
  3. Inventory control strategy — establish reorder thresholds, oversee cycle counts, and leverage database software to minimize stockouts and waste.
  4. Customer service quality standards — set service expectations, model best practices, and address escalated customer concerns at the supervisory level.
  5. Regulatory and safety compliance leadership — ensure all receiving, storage, and handling procedures meet state, federal, and accreditation requirements continuously.
  6. Technology adoption and training — evaluate new pharmacy software tools and lead staff training to ensure consistent, accurate system use.
  7. Cross-departmental communication — coordinate with pharmacists, purchasing, and management to align aide activities with broader pharmacy operational goals.
  8. Performance metrics and reporting — track key indicators such as inventory accuracy and transaction throughput, reporting findings to pharmacy leadership.
  9. Policy and procedure development — draft and update standard operating procedures for front-end pharmacy aide functions based on observed gaps and best practices.
  10. Organizational culture and integrity — model and reinforce dependability, attention to detail, and ethical conduct as cornerstones of the pharmacy aide role.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted product lookup — uses a pharmacy management system's AI search feature to help customers locate merchandise or over-the-counter products, relying on pharmacist confirmation before providing any medication guidance WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Prescription intake support — enters patient and prescription data into AI-assisted intake tools that flag missing fields or common entry errors, then routes the completed record to the pharmacist for clinical review Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Telephone inquiry triage — applies AI call-routing or FAQ-suggestion tools to identify whether a caller's question is routine (refill status, store hours) or requires pharmacist escalation, reducing hold times Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Inventory management acceleration — directs AI-powered inventory tracking software to reconcile stock counts, flag expiring medications, and generate low-stock alerts, freeing significant time otherwise spent on manual audits Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Cash transaction verification — cross-references AI-generated sales summaries against register receipts at end of shift to catch discrepancies, maintaining accountability while letting the system handle arithmetic Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Routine correspondence drafting — uses an AI text tool to draft standard patient-facing notices (e.g., prescription ready, insurance issue) within approved templates, submitting each draft for pharmacist sign-off before release Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Workflow coordination — orchestrates multiple AI tools (inventory alerts, intake validation, sales reporting) in an integrated sequence across a shift, identifying gaps where human judgment is required and escalating appropriately to the pharmacist Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output quality review — evaluates AI-generated inventory reports and prescription-intake summaries for accuracy and flags anomalies that the system misclassified, applying occupational knowledge to correct errors before they reach the pharmacist Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Process improvement advocacy — documents recurring AI tool errors or workflow friction points and presents concrete recommendations to pharmacy management for system configuration changes, translating frontline experience into operational improvements WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 41
Augment share: 4.1%
Time saved: 96.6%
AI autonomy: 3.11
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Prescription intake language — repeats back patient name and prescription details to confirm accuracy at the pharmacy counter Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Telephone response — answers incoming pharmacy calls using standard greeting and routes clinical questions to the pharmacist on duty O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Customer direction — guides customers to over-the-counter merchandise locations using clear, simple store layout descriptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Prescription processing dialogue — gathers required patient information during prescription intake by asking structured clarifying questions in sequence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inventory communication — relays low-stock observations and out-of-date medication findings to the pharmacist or supervisor in timely written or verbal form O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Transaction explanation — explains cash, credit, and insurance payment steps to customers at the point of sale with minimal confusion O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-channel customer communication — responds to in-person, telephone, and written inquiries with consistent clarity, adjusting vocabulary and tone to the customer's apparent level of health literacy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Escalation messaging — communicates prescription irregularities, patient concerns, or safety flags to the pharmacist using precise, unambiguous language that supports rapid decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team handoff communication — conveys shift status, pending orders, and restocking needs to incoming staff through organized verbal or written summaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Communication modeling — demonstrates and coaches new aides on professional customer interaction standards, including empathetic listening during sensitive prescription conversations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback loop facilitation — synthesizes recurring customer inquiries and complaints into actionable summaries communicated to pharmacy leadership for process improvement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Task initiation — identifies restocking needs independently and begins shelf replenishment without waiting for supervisor direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-assignment awareness — recognizes which routine tasks, such as cleaning equipment and sorting incoming merchandise, fall within scope and begins them proactively O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Peer guidance — assists newly hired pharmacy aides in locating merchandise, operating the cash register, and following intake procedures during onboarding periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Priority setting — organizes daily tasks including receiving shipments, restocking, and customer service by urgency and patient impact rather than defaulting to easiest items first Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Shift ownership — takes accountability for completing all assigned front-end and inventory duties within a shift, flagging unfinished items formally rather than leaving gaps undisclosed Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Inventory leadership — leads the cycle count process for pharmaceutical supplies, coordinating actions across aide team members and reporting consolidated findings to the pharmacist O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Customer flow management — takes initiative to reduce wait times by anticipating transaction volume and preparing register, bags, and receipt systems in advance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process stewardship — identifies gaps in inventory handling or customer intake procedures and proposes documented improvements to pharmacy management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship leadership — serves as an informal lead for pharmacy aide staff, modeling professional conduct, reinforcing safety protocols, and providing real-time coaching on prescription intake and customer service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task reflection — identifies personal errors in cash register operation or merchandise sorting after completing a transaction and notes the correction for future attempts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning awareness — recognizes when a pharmacy procedure, such as handling refrigerated medication, requires additional instruction before independent execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error pattern recognition — notices recurring personal mistakes in prescription intake information gathering and adjusts personal checklist or questioning sequence accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap identification — accurately assesses own readiness to handle complex customer inquiries versus those requiring pharmacist referral, and routes accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Self-monitoring during high volume — tracks own accuracy and pace during busy prescription intake periods, self-correcting data entry and customer interaction quality without supervisor prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration — incorporates supervisor observations about inventory labeling or customer service tone into revised personal work habits within a defined timeframe Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy documentation — articulates personal systems for managing prescription accuracy, stock rotation, and customer queue management and shares those strategies with peers to improve team performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous self-audit — independently evaluates own performance trends over time, identifying shifts in accuracy or efficiency tied to workload or procedural changes and reporting findings proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Expiration date evaluation — compares medication dates during inventory checks and separates out-of-date items from active stock according to established protocol O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Referral judgment — distinguishes between customer questions answerable by pharmacy aides and those requiring pharmacist expertise, routing correctly in routine situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Prescription intake screening — reviews incoming prescription information for obvious completeness issues, such as missing date or prescriber name, before passing to pharmacist for processing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Merchandise discrepancy analysis — identifies mismatches between incoming shipment packing slips and physical item counts, investigating before accepting or rejecting the delivery O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Inventory anomaly investigation — detects unusual patterns in stock depletion rates or damaged packaging and evaluates whether the cause is a procedural, supplier, or security issue before escalating Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer situation assessment — evaluates customer behavior and stated needs to determine appropriate service response, including deciding when to involve the pharmacist for safety or clinical concerns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Process failure analysis — traces the source of a recurring operational problem, such as repeated stockouts of a high-demand item, through available data before recommending a solution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Evidence-based process critique — evaluates current intake, stocking, or cash handling procedures against observed outcomes and presents reasoned, evidence-supported recommendations for change to pharmacy leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic risk identification — identifies interdependencies across pharmacy aide tasks, such as how delayed receiving affects prescription fill times, and uses that understanding to anticipate and mitigate downstream problems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Pharmacist support tasks — completes assigned support tasks such as pulling stock or organizing shelving without disrupting pharmacist workflow during peak fill periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Co-worker coordination — informs teammates of personal task progress, such as completing a restock run, so shared responsibilities are distributed without duplication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Shared inventory management — coordinates with fellow aides to divide restocking, receiving, and cleaning duties efficiently during shift transitions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-role communication — provides timely and accurate information to pharmacy technicians and pharmacists needed to complete prescription processing without bottlenecks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Team problem-solving — collaborates with pharmacist and technician staff to resolve customer complaints or prescription intake issues that cross role boundaries Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdepartmental coordination — works with receiving, purchasing, or store management teams to resolve pharmaceutical supply delivery discrepancies or scheduling conflicts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Conflict navigation — manages interpersonal friction with co-workers or difficult customers professionally, preserving team cohesion and customer experience quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team capability building — identifies skill gaps across the aide team and organizes informal cross-training on tasks such as refrigerated item handling or prescription intake data entry Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative workflow design — partners with pharmacist leadership to co-develop improved aide scheduling, task sequencing, or handoff protocols that reduce errors and improve team efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Privacy adherence — handles visible patient prescription information with discretion, avoiding disclosure to unauthorized individuals during intake or cash register transactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accuracy commitment — counts and labels incoming merchandise carefully, acknowledging personal responsibility when counts do not match expected totals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Regulatory compliance behavior — follows controlled substance handling, storage, and disposal procedures consistently, even when not directly observed by a supervisor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest customer interaction — provides customers with accurate product and price information, and acknowledges when a question requires pharmacist input rather than guessing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Accountability under pressure — accepts responsibility for transaction errors, mislabeled stock, or intake mistakes and takes corrective action without deflecting blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical conflict navigation — declines to process transactions or handle medications in ways that appear to violate policy, and escalates concerns to the pharmacist rather than proceeding under uncertainty Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Consistent professionalism — maintains composed, respectful conduct toward all customers and colleagues regardless of shift difficulty, customer behavior, or personal circumstances Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture modeling — demonstrates and reinforces a standard of honesty, patient confidentiality, and procedural integrity that influences the professional conduct of the entire aide team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability leadership — addresses observed lapses in compliance or accuracy among peers directly and respectfully, supporting a culture of shared responsibility without relying solely on supervisory intervention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Merchandising adaptation — reorganizes shelf displays to improve customer navigation when standard layouts result in frequent customer confusion or missed items Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workaround generation — identifies a practical interim solution when a standard supply storage area is temporarily out of space, maintaining organization without disrupting workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Customer experience improvement — proposes a small adjustment to the greeting or intake question sequence that reduces customer wait time or confusion during busy periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inventory tracking innovation — develops a personal system, such as a color-coded bin or labeling method, that reduces errors during receiving and restocking tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Process redesign contribution — generates a revised workflow for sorting and shelving incoming pharmaceutical shipments that reduces handling time and mislabeling errors, tested and validated within the aide team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer service recovery — devises novel de-escalation approaches for frustrated customers awaiting prescriptions, drawing on empathy and creative problem framing to restore satisfaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. System-level innovation — designs and pilots a new inventory management or intake support tool that measurably improves pharmacy aide efficiency and is adopted as a standard practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative mentorship — encourages and channels peers' process improvement ideas through structured suggestion and testing cycles, creating a team habit of operational creativity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Error reframing — treats mistakes in cash register operation or merchandise sorting as learning opportunities, asking for corrective guidance rather than concealing errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New task acceptance — volunteers to learn unfamiliar duties such as handling refrigerated medication or processing insurance-related intake forms when the opportunity arises Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Feedback responsiveness — acts on specific supervisor feedback about prescription intake accuracy or customer communication within the next comparable task opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill stretch behavior — takes on progressively more complex customer inquiries or inventory responsibilities, tracking personal improvement over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Setback persistence — resumes accurate prescription intake or inventory work after a high-error period with revised personal strategy rather than reduced effort or avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-training initiative — seeks out opportunities to learn tasks adjacent to the aide role, such as understanding basic pharmacy workflow, to expand contribution capacity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Continuous improvement orientation — reviews personal accuracy metrics or supervisor notes regularly and sets specific behavioral goals for each review cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — normalizes mistake-sharing and lessons-learned conversations among aide colleagues, reducing fear of error and accelerating collective skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Development advocacy — encourages peers who plateau in skill growth by connecting their current challenges to longer-term career pathways in pharmacy or healthcare support Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention to detail orientation — maintains focused concentration when counting and labeling incoming pharmaceutical items to prevent sorting errors in a busy receiving environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness in customer interaction — notices personal frustration when handling a difficult customer and pauses briefly before responding to avoid an unprofessional reaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intentional task sequencing — consciously organizes competing duties, such as simultaneous prescription intake and restocking requests, by applying deliberate priority logic rather than reacting impulsively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment accuracy — sustains attention on cash register transaction accuracy during peak customer volume, resisting distraction from nearby pharmacy activity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Stress regulation during high-volume shifts — applies personal calming techniques to maintain professional demeanor and task accuracy during periods of sustained customer demand or prescription backlog Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Situational awareness — monitors the pharmacy floor environment continuously, noticing signs of customer distress, low-stock conditions, or safety hazards and responding before they escalate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional communication pacing — slows conversation pace and uses deliberate word choice when explaining prescription pickup procedures or payment options to elderly or anxious customers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team mindfulness modeling — demonstrates and teaches present-moment focus techniques to new aides to reduce intake errors and improve customer interaction quality during demanding shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic attentiveness — maintains environmental awareness across all pharmacy aide responsibilities simultaneously, proactively adjusting workflow before accumulating tasks create errors or customer dissatisfaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Sustained task completion — completes full restocking or inventory count tasks to the end of the assignment even when physical fatigue or time pressure is present Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Discomfort tolerance — continues professional customer service conduct during difficult interactions involving impatient or upset customers awaiting prescriptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error recovery — returns to accurate prescription intake procedure immediately after a processing mistake without dwelling on the error or reducing engagement with subsequent customers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Workload persistence — maintains consistent task quality across an extended shift involving high customer volume, multiple incoming shipments, and concurrent intake demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained performance under pressure — delivers accurate medication receiving, stocking, and customer service throughout peak pharmacy periods such as flu season or insurance enrollment cycles without significant quality decline Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ambiguity tolerance — proceeds effectively through prescription intake or inventory tasks when standard procedures are temporarily unclear due to system downtime or supervisory absence, escalating appropriately and maintaining accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Rejection resilience — handles repeated instances of customer rudeness or complaint without internalizing the interactions as personal failure or reducing quality of subsequent service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience modeling — visibly demonstrates composed, high-effort performance during the pharmacy's most demanding periods, providing a steadying example that stabilizes team morale and accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term perseverance — sustains skill development and professional commitment across challenging work conditions over an extended tenure, motivating peers and earning increasing responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors43 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Certified Pharmacist Assistant · Dispensary Attendant · Drug Clerk · Drug Purchaser · Front Counter Clerk · Pharmaceutical Assistant · Pharmacist Aide · Pharmacist Assistant · Pharmacist Helper · Pharmacist's Aide · Pharmacy Administrator (Pharmacy Admin) · Pharmacy Aide
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingService OrientationReading ComprehensionSocial PerceptivenessCritical ThinkingCoordinationJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageAdministrativeSales and Marketing
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionOral ExpressionSpeech ClarityNear VisionSpeech RecognitionProblem SensitivityWritten ComprehensionInformation OrderingWritten ExpressionDeductive Reasoning
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailIntegrityCautiousnessCooperationSocial Orientation
Technology
Data base user interface and query softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwarePresentation softwareOperating system softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Greet customers and help them locate merchandise.
  2. Accept prescriptions for filling, gathering and processing necessary information.
  3. Operate cash register to process cash or credit sales.
  4. Answer telephone inquiries, referring callers to pharmacist when necessary.
  5. Receive, store, and inventory pharmaceutical supplies or medications, check for out-of-date medications, and notify pharmacist when inventory levels are low.
  6. Unpack, sort, count, and label incoming merchandise, including items requiring special handling or refrigeration.
  7. Restock storage areas, replenishing items on shelves.
  8. Maintain and clean equipment, work areas, or shelves.
CIP education codes
51.260251.260151.390251.399951.150251.0803

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.