Pharmacy Tech Salary: 5 Figures You Need To Know

The role of pharmacy technicians has become increasingly important in the healthcare industry. As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians has also grown. One of the most significant factors to consider when pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician is the salary. In this article, we will delve into the world of pharmacy tech salaries, exploring the five figures you need to know to make an informed decision about your career path.

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. Their duties require attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the demand for skilled pharmacy technicians is expected to rise, leading to increased salaries and benefits.

Pharmacy Tech Salary Ranges

Pharmacy technician salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry. 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 range from around $25,000 to over $50,000 per year, depending on the specific job and location.

Here are five figures you need to know about pharmacy tech salaries:

$25,000 - $30,000: Entry-level pharmacy technicians with little to no experience can expect to earn a salary in this range. These positions often involve working in retail pharmacies or assisting with administrative tasks.
$30,000 - $40,000: Experienced pharmacy technicians who have completed a training program or have several years of experience can earn salaries in this range. These positions often involve working in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities.
$40,000 - $50,000: Senior pharmacy technicians or those with specialized training can earn salaries in this range. These positions often involve working in leadership roles or specializing in areas such as sterile compounding or informatics.
$50,000 - $60,000: Pharmacy technicians with advanced degrees or certifications, such as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), can earn salaries in this range. These positions often involve working in specialized roles or as pharmacy managers.
$60,000+: Experienced pharmacy technicians with advanced degrees or certifications, such as a Bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology, can earn salaries above $60,000. These positions often involve working in leadership roles or as pharmacy directors.

Factors Affecting Pharmacy Tech Salaries

Several factors can affect pharmacy technician salaries, including:

Location: Salaries can vary depending on the state, city, or region. Urban areas tend to have higher salaries than rural areas.
Experience: More experienced pharmacy technicians can earn higher salaries.
Industry: Salaries can vary depending on the type of industry, such as retail, hospital, or long-term care.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications, such as CPhT, can increase earning potential.
Education: Advanced degrees, such as a Bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology, can lead to higher salaries.

Pharmacy Tech Salary by Industry

Pharmacy technician salaries can vary depending on the industry. Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in different industries:

Retail pharmacies: $25,000 - $40,000 per year
Hospitals: $30,000 - $50,000 per year
Clinics: $30,000 - $45,000 per year
Long-term care facilities: $25,000 - $40,000 per year
Pharmaceutical companies: $40,000 - $60,000 per year

Pharmacy Tech Salary by State

Pharmacy technician salaries can also vary depending on the state. Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in different states:

California: $35,000 - $55,000 per year
New York: $30,000 - $50,000 per year
Texas: $25,000 - $40,000 per year
Florida: $25,000 - $40,000 per year
Illinois: $30,000 - $50,000 per year

Pharmacy Tech Salary Growth

The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, the growth rate can vary depending on the industry and location. The BLS predicts that the largest growth will occur in retail pharmacies and online pharmacies.

Pharmacy Tech Salary Outlook

The outlook for pharmacy technician salaries is positive, with expected growth in the industry. As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians will also increase. With the right training and experience, pharmacy technicians can earn competitive salaries and benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pharmacy technician salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry. With the right training and experience, pharmacy technicians can earn competitive salaries and benefits. As the demand for healthcare services continues to rise, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians will also increase. By understanding the five figures you need to know about pharmacy tech salaries, you can make an informed decision about your career path and take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career in pharmacy technology.

What is the average salary for a pharmacy technician?

The average salary for a pharmacy technician is around $34,860 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What factors affect pharmacy technician salaries?

Factors that affect pharmacy technician salaries include location, experience, industry, certifications, and education.

What is the highest salary for a pharmacy technician?

The highest salary for a pharmacy technician can exceed $60,000 per year, depending on the location, experience, and industry.