16. Pharmacy technicians

Projected increase in 2016: 32 percent
Number employed in 2006: 285,000
Median pay in 2006: $26,510
Education/training: Most of the training a pharmacy technician receives is on the job. However, education, experience, certification, and customer service skills will aid someone looking to break into this field.
Job outlook: The demand for pharmacy technicians will increase along with the elderly population. Pharmacies looking to cut costs will shift more responsibilities from pharmacists to technicians.
• More on pharmacy technicians
• Job openings in New England for pharmacy technicians