Everything you need to know about CVS careers

CVS Health is a company that owns a range of healthcare brands, including CVS Pharmacy, Aetna, and CVS Caremark.

It's a large company with around 10,000 stores in the US. In one year, its CVS pharmacy had more than 90 billion dollars worth of sales.

If you're looking for a new role, CVS could be for you. The company is hiring in a range of departments, and there's an opportunity for long-term career growth.

Before applying for a job at CVS, you should know a few things. We've put together the following guide that's packed with information. We'll tell you the types of jobs that are available, how to apply, and talk about the benefits you could receive.

Plus, we'll compare salaries and give you our top tips for getting hired.

What is CVS?

CVS (Consumer Value Stores) is a company that specializes in providing health solutions.

In 1963, the first CVS store opened in Lowell, Massachusetts. By 1964, the health and beauty retailer had expanded to 17 stores, and in 1967, CVS started adding pharmacy departments.

The headquarters are in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and the CEO is Karen S. Lynch.

In 2018, CVS Health bought Aetna, a health insurance company with options for dental, medical, and pharmaceutical benefits.

CVS Pharmacy sells a range of goods both in-store and online. For example, customers can purchase cosmetics, medications, and convenience foods. CVS also offers services such as photo printing and immunizations.

The closest competitors for CVS are Walgreens, United Pharmacies, Cigna, and Kroger.

The company gives back to the community. There are programs for disaster relief and a reduced-cost MinuteClinic that's open for walk-in appointments.

What do you need to work at CVS?

The skills and experience you'll need for CVS can depend on the job and location. For most roles, the minimum age requirement is 16 years old. You’ll also need a high school diploma or equivalent.

CVS pharmacies can have long business hours, with stores often open 24 hours a day. Availability across different shifts can give you an advantage.

Customer service, time management, and basic math skills will help you get a job at CVS Health. Some positions require heavy lifting and long hours on your feet. For these jobs, physical fitness and manual dexterity are essential.

For a driving role, you'll need a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.

If you want to work in a pharmacy position, you’ll usually need training, a license, and first aid certifications. Experience using health technology will be beneficial.

There are entry-level and experienced positions available. If you're looking for a career in healthcare, CVS is a good place to start.

What jobs are available at CVS?

If you want to work at CVS, there are different jobs you can apply for. Here's a rundown of some of the most popular positions.

1. Retail store associate

CVS retail store associates help customers. They use their excellent communication skills to greet visitors and answer questions.

Retail store associates process credit card and cash payments. They issue receipts and pack items. These workers make sure the registers are secure and the workspace is clean and tidy. They encourage customers to use their CVS loyalty cards.

Sometimes, associates work in other areas of the store. For example, they may help stock shelves or support the pharmacy team.

Retail store associates should be comfortable standing for long hours. Frequent lifting is also part of the job description.

Computer skills, basic math skills, and conflict management are all beneficial.

2. Shift supervisor

CVS shift supervisors are responsible for staff rosters. They help employees prioritize tasks and support them in their roles. For example, the supervisor may call retail associates to the register during busy trading periods.

They train new hourly employees and give them feedback. Shift supervisors organize in-store events and create sales reports.

These leaders keep an eye out for suspicious behaviors, including shoplifting. They use their conflict management skills to deal with difficult customers and process refunds.

CVS often trains hardworking associates for shift supervisor roles. To be successful, you'll need to have leadership skills, communication skills, organizational skills, and good attention to detail.

3. Retail pharmacy technician

CVS pharmacy careers are rewarding, and you can build a long-term future in personal healthcare.

Retail pharmacy technicians support pharmacists. They provide excellent customer service and fill prescriptions.

Pharmacy technicians use their math skills to accurately measure medications and label packages. They keep track of inventory and let the pharmacist know if stock is running low.

Retail pharmacy technicians help customers locate the items they need. They process cash and credit card payments and process insurance claims.

These workers answer phone calls and record all prescription information in a software database.

Medical knowledge, computer skills, and communication skills are essential.

4. Beauty consultant

CVS beauty consultants recommend skincare and makeup products to customers. They offer consultations and give customized advice.

Beauty consultants are passionate about cosmetics, health, and wellness. They have a broad knowledge of different products and stay up to date with industry trends.

Beauty consultants process payments and issue refunds.

CVS trains all beauty consultants in ear piercing. They receive a certification to safely offer this service.

To work in this role, you'll need experience in beauty and cosmetics. Customer service skills, good presentation, and time management skills are essential.

You should be committed to ongoing training and be a team player.

5. Truck driver

​​CVS truck drivers are committed team members. They collect goods from distribution centers and deliver them to CVS retail stores.

Once the pallets have been unpacked, they transport them back to the distribution center.

Truck drivers know how to operate tractor-trailers or straight trucks and have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL).

To do this job, you'll need to have at least one year of driving experience. You should be confident on the road and have good attention to detail.

Truck drivers need manual dexterity and time management skills. There are bonuses and awards given for safe driving.

Unlike many of the other positions, the minimum age requirement is usually 21.

6. Customer service representative

There are remote CVS careers available. One popular job type is a customer service representative.

These team members provide support to CVS stores. They answer customer phone calls and respond to emails.

Customer service representatives get virtual training. They learn how to follow CVS policies and procedures and give excellent service. They answer questions and resolve complaints.

To work in this role, you'll need at least one year of experience in a customer service environment. You'll need strong English skills and excellent listening skills. You should be professional with good time management and product knowledge.

There are part-time and full-time remote positions available. If you can speak Spanish, it’ll be an advantage.

7. Pharmacist

CVS Health has job openings for pharmacists across the country. These healthcare professionals process prescriptions and manage a team of pharmacy technicians.

Pharmacists make sure medications, packaging, and labels are accurate and keep track of inventory. They answer questions and support the health of communities.

They also oversee the operations of the CVS Health pharmacy and make sure the premises remain secure.

To get a job as a CVS pharmacist, you'll need to be a licensed pharmacist. For example, you'll need a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy or similar. You'll also need to have immunization certification and some industry experience.

Pharmacists should have excellent communication skills, computer skills, and attention to detail. Strong leadership skills and manual dexterity are also required. This can be a part-time or full-time role.

8. Customer service supervisor

Looking for a manager role? Customer service supervisors look after a team of call center service operators. This can be a work-from-home role with flexible shifts.

Customer service supervisors oversee communication with customers and partners. They train staff on how to answer phones and give them feedback. The goal is to provide a positive customer experience and a high quality of care to every caller.

These leaders often use incentive programs to motivate employees. For example, when employees meet company goals, they can get rewarded.

To apply for this position, you'll need customer service experience. You'll also need strong computer skills, communication skills, and confidence on the phone.

A high school diploma and some leadership experience are essential. The hours can vary between positions, but most customer service supervisors work full-time.

9. Materials coordinator

Materials coordinators have a wide range of responsibilities. They support the Materials Management Department in CVS Health warehouses.

A materials coordinator's daily duties include processing customer returns and checking inventory levels. These coordinators are up to date with the inventory process and can answer questions from other team members.

Materials coordinators also answer phones, enter data, and type up reports. This role can include stretching and bending, and you should be able to lift up to 40 pounds.

Materials coordinators need at least one year of distribution experience. You'll need a high school diploma or equivalent for this role, as well as some healthcare knowledge. Good communication, reliability, and organizational skills are also important.

You can expect to work different shifts, including evenings, as a materials coordinator.

10. Case manager

If you're a registered nurse, you can apply for a case manager position. This is a telehealth role, so you can work in this position remotely.

Nurse case managers oversee case management activities for Aetna Health members. They help create and assess plans for positive healthcare outcomes.

Case managers use a range of tools to learn about each member's needs. Nurse case managers use this information to make sure the right benefits plans are offered.

These professionals work closely with leadership teams and make sure they follow all rules and regulations. They do their work with accuracy and confidentiality.

If you want this role at Aetna CVS Health, you'll need excellent communication skills and computer skills. Nurses also need clinical and case management experience.

This is usually a full-time, Monday-to-Friday role.

How much can you make at CVS?

The average wage for CVS employees in the US is $17.12 per hour.

Ultimately, how much you can make at CVS depends on what type of job you apply for with the company.

For example, if you get hired as a CVS Health pharmacy technician, the salary ranges from $12.00 to $19.00 per hour. A cashier can make between $9.00 and $15.00 per hour, and a retail shift supervisor can earn between $12.00 and $18.00 per hour.

Those who want to work as inventory specialists can expect between $11.00 and $20.00 per hour. Pharmacy interns have an average pay range of $13.00 to $19.00 per hour.

If you have a specific qualification, your pay will be even higher. For example, the salary range for a pharmacist is between $48.00 and $67.00 per hour. And family nurse practitioners make between $40.00 and $73.00 per hour.

What benefits do you get at CVS?

If you get a job at this health solutions company, your job will come with a comprehensive benefits package. Your eligibility will depend on whether you work full-time or part-time, the job title, and how long you've been working there.

First, you'll get health benefits. On this list is general medical, dental, and vision insurance. Your comprehensive employment package will also come with prescription drug coverage.

You'll get optional wellness support to help you develop a healthier lifestyle.

Plus, you can take advantage of a flexible spending account (FSA). You can set aside some of your pre-tax income and use it toward any unexpected health expenses.

There's a 401(k) retirement plan with a company match, so you can start saving for your future. Then, there are short-term and long-term disability and life insurance options.

You could get paid time off (PTO) if you meet the minimum hour requirements. There are free annual flu shots, financial hardship assistance, education reimbursement, and opportunities for training and promotion.

CVS employees get an employee discount that can be used in-store or online. Depending on the brand, the discount is between 20% and 30% off.

To learn more about employee perks and eligibility criteria, check out our CVS benefits package guide.

Can you work at CVS if you have a disability?

Yes, CVS Health is an equal opportunity employer. The company celebrates diversity and has a long history of supporting team members with disabilities.

In fact, over the last five years, CVS scored 100% in the Disability Equality Index for disability inclusion.

During the hiring process, you can self-identify a disability. This optional step is confidential and can help CVS improve its processes. The company can then use the information to set new goals and measure the success of existing initiatives.

Remember, you can ask for reasonable workplace accommodation. For example, you may have a nervous system condition that affects your balance. If so, and you want to work in a CVS Health retail store as a cashier, you may ask for a seat at the register.

Or, if you're vision-impaired, your computer screen can be modified to accommodate that.

For more information on requesting accomodations, read our workplace accommodations guide.

How to apply for a job at CVS

The CVS application process is straightforward, but knowing what to expect will improve your chances.

The first step is to decide what job types you're interested in. You can browse CVS positions on our job board or go straight to the CVS careers page.

You'll need to create a CVS account with your full name, email address, mobile number, and the roles you'd like to apply for.

Make sure your details are accurate, as CVS will need to contact you with updates.

Once you have your account, you can start applying. It's a step-by-step process, and you'll need to upload a resume. You'll be asked about your education and your disability and veteran status.

You'll need to select your availability and confirm that you're eligible to work in the US. If you have relevant licenses or certifications, you can include them in your CVS application.

You'll talk about your work history and need to include references. Make sure you check with your references first before sharing their personal details.

The whole process will take around 30 minutes, and once you hit submit, you can sit back and wait for the next step.

For more, read our complete CVS application guide.

Does CVS do a background check?

Yes. Before you can get hired at CVS Health, you'll need to pass a background check. You'll have to give permission, but if you disagree, you won't be able to continue with the application process.

The background check goes back at least seven years. CVS uses a third-party company to check your criminal records and confirm your work history and education.

The company does these checks to verify your information and make sure its employees and customers are safe.

The report will show any misdemeanors and felonies. An issue on your background check doesn't automatically exclude you from a position. You can explain your individual circumstances during the job interview.

If you're applying for a driving role, such as a truck driver position, CVS may check your driving record. For some senior and financial positions, the company may do a credit check.

You should always be honest in your application because any information can be verified.

Does CVS hire felons?

Yes, CVS hiring managers are willing to give all candidates a chance. The company has signed up for a program called the Fair Chance Business Pledge (if you've heard of “Ban the Box,” this is similar).

The hiring manager won't ask you about your criminal history until you agree to a background check. Because this discussion happens later in the hiring process, candidates have a chance to share their skills without judgment.

Keep in mind, though, that some felonies may exclude you from certain job types. For example, if you've been convicted of a drug-related offense, you won't be able to work in a pharmacy. And a violent offender won't be allowed to provide care for patients.

Does CVS do a drug test?

Yes, CVS often does drug tests as an employment condition. It's a workplace that's free of drugs and alcohol.

CVS Health uses a third-party company for its drug tests. You can expect a urine test and mouth swabs. The tests are only for illicit and illegal drugs; you won't be tested for prescription medication.

The types of drugs that are tested for include cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol, and marijuana. Even if marijuana is legal in your state, it's not accepted as part of CVS Health's drug-free policy.

If you test positive, you won't get the job, and you'll need to wait a few months before you can reapply.

During your employment, you can expect random drug tests. For example, if there is an incident at work or if drug use is suspected, you'll be asked to undergo a screening. If you test positive at any time, you'll probably lose your job.

Top CVS resume tips

When you apply for a job at CVS Health, you'll need to upload a resume. A professional resume and cover letter can make your application stand out.

These days, companies like CVS rely on technology to narrow down candidates. Your resume may be put through an applicant tracking system (ATS). This computer software looks for keywords that are mentioned in the job description.

To make sure your resume is both human and ATS-friendly, make sure you use simple formatting. For example, you should avoid images and borders and choose common fonts, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana.

In your resume, focus on any healthcare or retail experience. Transferable soft skills, such as customer service, math skills, communication skills, problem-solving, and teamwork, are worth mentioning.

Check your resume for spelling and grammatical errors, and make sure your contact details are up to date. Save your resume as a PDF or Word Document.

If you need help creating a resume, try our free resume builder.

What are the most common CVS interview questions?

A job interview is usually part of the CVS hiring process. When you're prepared, you'll boost your chances of getting the position.

Remember, some of the questions may be specific to the position, so always read the job description carefully.

To help you get ready, here are some of the most common CVS interview questions:

• Why do you want to work at CVS?

• Why is access to quality healthcare important?

• What do you know about CVS?

• What is your availability?

• How do you handle disgruntled customers?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

• Share an example of a time when you gave excellent customer service

• Why are you leaving your current role?

• Are you comfortable doing repetitive tasks?

• What is your greatest strength?

• Do you have any questions?

Want more? Read our sample interview questions and answers guide.

Where to find a CVS job

If CVS sounds like somewhere you'd like to work, it's time to start the application process.

You can see what's available by browsing CVS positions on our job board. You can narrow your search down to your local area and select “remote only” if you want to work from home.

When you sign up for a free account, you can set up job alerts, create a free resume, and chat with our community members.

Alternatively, you can visit the careers section on CVS Health's website.

Want something different? Browse all available positions in your area.

Starting your CVS career

From healthcare professionals to sales associates, CVS is hiring now.

Some of the most popular jobs include retail store associates, shift supervisors, retail pharmacy technicians, beauty consultants, truck drivers, and customer service representatives.

There are also jobs available for pharmacists, customer service supervisors, materials coordinators, and care managers.

If you work at CVS, you can expect a range of benefits and a competitive salary. The application is online, and you'll need to upload a professional resume.

You may be asked a few common interview questions, and you can practice these before the big day.

Are you ready for a new opportunity? Jump over to our job board to see available CVS jobs. You can also see who else is hiring near you.

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