Introduction
Pharmacy technicians are integral members of healthcare teams in pharmacies and hospitals. They assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, interacting with customers, and providing administrative support. But how much does a pharmacy technician make? Let’s explore the national and regional average salaries for pharmacy technicians, as well as the factors that impact pay.
Analyzing Average Salaries for Pharmacy Technicians
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians in 2020 was $34,820, or $16.73 per hour. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $26,250, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $49,540.
The BLS also provides regional salary averages for pharmacy technicians. In the South, the median annual wage was $35,010; in the West, it was $37,980; in the Midwest, it was $33,400; and in the Northeast, it was $36,090.
It’s important to note that there are a variety of factors that can influence a pharmacy technician’s salary. These include education level, experience, location, and certification/licensure.
Exploring the Factors Impacting a Pharmacy Technician’s Salary
Education Level: Most employers prefer to hire pharmacy technicians who have completed a formal training program, such as a certificate or associate degree program. Completing a formal program may increase a pharmacy technician’s earning potential.
Experience: As with most jobs, experience can be a factor in increasing one’s salary. According to PayScale, pharmacy technicians with 1-4 years of experience typically earn between $11 and $15 per hour, while those with 5-9 years of experience typically earn between $13 and $17 per hour.
Location: Location is another major factor that can influence a pharmacy technician’s salary. For example, the BLS reports that the highest-paying states for pharmacy technicians in 2020 were Alaska ($47,440), California ($43,150), and Massachusetts ($42,110).
Certification/Licensure: Many states require pharmacy technicians to obtain certification or licensure. Obtaining certification or licensure may result in higher wages.
Investigating State-by-State Variations in Pharmacy Tech Pay
As previously mentioned, the highest-paying states for pharmacy technicians in 2020 were Alaska ($47,440), California ($43,150), and Massachusetts ($42,110). Other states with high pay for pharmacy technicians include Washington ($41,310), New Jersey ($40,950), and Nevada ($39,360).
On the other hand, the lowest-paying states for pharmacy technicians in 2020 were Mississippi ($27,890), Arkansas ($28,070), and West Virginia ($28,570). Other states with low pay for pharmacy technicians include Alabama ($29,620), Oklahoma ($30,290), and Kentucky ($30,490).
Examining Job Benefits and Bonuses for Pharmacy Technicians
In addition to salary, many pharmacy technicians receive a variety of job benefits and bonuses. These may include health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses. Health insurance is typically provided by employers, while retirement plans may include 401(k)s and profit-sharing plans. Bonuses may be offered for performance or completion of additional certifications.
Evaluating Career Advancement Opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians
For those looking to move up in their careers, there are several opportunities for advancement for pharmacy technicians. These may include continuing education, leadership roles, and supervisory positions. Continuing education may involve completing an advanced degree or additional certifications. Leadership roles may include managing other pharmacy technicians or taking on additional responsibilities. Supervisory positions may involve overseeing all pharmacy operations and staff.
Conclusion
Pharmacy technicians play an important role in healthcare, and their salaries reflect their important contributions. National average wages for pharmacy technicians are around $34,820, but wages vary based on factors like experience, location, and certification/licensure. Pharmacy technicians may also receive benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, as well as bonuses and career advancement opportunities.
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