Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician

Join the cutting-edge world of pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Where precision meets innovation in creating life-changing medications.

As a Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician, you’ll play a crucial role in the production of high-quality pharmaceutical products. Working with state-of-the-art equipment, you’ll be responsible for various aspects of the manufacturing process, from handling raw materials to packaging finished products. Depending on the employer, you may work with powders and liquids, to weigh and blend, or undertake tablet coating activities.

This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong technical skills, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. In this position, you’ll operate and monitor sophisticated manufacturing equipment, ensuring that all processes run smoothly and efficiently.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technicians use a wide range of specialised equipment, including V-blenders, ribbon blenders, granulators, and fluid bed processors for handling powders, mixing tanks and liquid filling machines for liquids, and various types of coating systems like Accela-cota and Hi-coaters for tablet coating. They also work with precision scales for weighing, high-shear mixers for blending, and ancillary equipment such as HEPA filtration systems and clean-in-place (CIP) systems, all while adhering to strict quality control and safety standards.

You’ll work in a highly regulated environment, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and following strict operating procedures. Your responsibilities will include setting up production equipment, monitoring production processes, and performing quality checks throughout the manufacturing cycle. You’ll also be involved in maintaining accurate records of production activities, troubleshooting any issues that arise, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

In this role, you will:

  1. Operate and monitor pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment
  2. Follow standard operating procedures and GMP guidelines
  3. Perform in-process quality checks and maintain product quality
  4. Handle raw materials and finished products according to established protocols
  5. Maintain accurate production records and documentation

The level and technical requirement of this role is often varied. While some positions are direct entry, with no experience required, others require experience and vocational education and training or higher education.

Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.

Also Known As:
  • Pharmaceutical Production Specialist
  • Pharmaceutical Production Worker
  • Clean Room Operator
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a pharmaceutical manufacturing technician include:

  • GMP knowledge
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem solving
  • Record keeping
  • Technical comprehension
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a pharmaceutical manufacturing technician include:

  • Quality-focused
  • Safety-conscious
  • Reliable
  • Attention to detail
  • Physical endurance
  • Investigative – “Thinker”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Food and Nutrition
  • Health
  • Science in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Biology
  • Chemistry

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$55,000
Median
$70,000
High
$85,000

In this role you may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

Qualifications that may help you advance in your career include:

  • Certificate II in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing (FBP20418)
  • Certificate III in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing (FBP30822)

Holding a degree in manufacturing, human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

You may be able to undertake additional study through a university or higher education provider in science, pharmacy, pharmaceutical science or pharmaceutical design and engineering.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the pharmaceutical and medical technology industry

The pharmaceutical and medical technology industry is a dynamic and rapidly area sector that plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare and improving quality of life. From life-saving medications to cutting-edge medical devices, this industry is at the forefront of scientific innovation and technological progress, contributing significantly to Australia’s reputation as a leader in health research and development.

Pharmaceutical and medical technology industry