Pharmacy Technician Pay Rate: Understanding the Average Salary and Hourly Wage
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, handling prescriptions, and performing administrative tasks. As the demand for healthcare services continues to grow, the role of pharmacy technicians has become increasingly important. If you’re considering a career as a pharmacy technician, it’s essential to understand the average salary and hourly wage for this profession.
Average Salary for Pharmacy Technicians
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States was $34,860 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, level of experience, and certification.
Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in different industries:
- Retail pharmacies: 29,000 - 40,000 per year
- Hospital pharmacies: 32,000 - 50,000 per year
- Clinical pharmacies: 35,000 - 60,000 per year
- Mail-order pharmacies: 30,000 - 45,000 per year
Average Hourly Wage for Pharmacy Technicians
The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians varies depending on the industry and location. According to the BLS, the median hourly wage for pharmacy technicians was $16.80 in May 2020. Here are some average hourly wage ranges for pharmacy technicians in different industries:
- Retail pharmacies: 14.00 - 20.00 per hour
- Hospital pharmacies: 16.00 - 25.00 per hour
- Clinical pharmacies: 18.00 - 30.00 per hour
- Mail-order pharmacies: 15.00 - 22.00 per hour
Factors Affecting Pharmacy Technician Pay Rates
Several factors can affect pharmacy technician pay rates, including:
- Location: Salaries can vary depending on the state, city, or region you work in. Urban areas tend to offer higher salaries than rural areas.
- Industry: Different industries, such as retail, hospital, or clinical pharmacies, may offer varying salaries.
- Level of experience: More experienced pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries.
- Certification: Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhT) may earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians.
- Education: Pharmacy technicians with higher education levels, such as an associate’s degree, may earn higher salaries.
Certification and Education
While certification is not always required, it can significantly impact pharmacy technician pay rates. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification, which is recognized nationally.
Here are some benefits of certification:
- Increased earning potential: Certified pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries.
- Improved job prospects: Certification can make you more competitive in the job market.
- Enhanced skills and knowledge: Certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the profession.
📚 Note: Certification requirements may vary depending on the state or employer.
Conclusion
Pharmacy technician pay rates can vary depending on several factors, including location, industry, level of experience, and certification. While the average salary and hourly wage for pharmacy technicians may not be the highest, it’s a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and advancement. By understanding the average salary and hourly wage for pharmacy technicians, you can make informed decisions about your career and education.
What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States?
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The median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States was 34,860 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do certified pharmacy technicians earn higher salaries?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, certified pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in retail pharmacies?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in retail pharmacies ranges from 14.00 to $20.00 per hour.
