Have you ever thought about becoming a pharmacy technician? If so, you may be wondering if the pay is worth it. After all, you want to make sure you’re earning a comfortable living. In this post, we’ll explore whether or not pharmacy tech pay is competitive and what you can expect from a salary in this field.
When it comes to healthcare careers, job stability and pay are often top concerns. While pharmacy technicians don’t typically earn as much as pharmacists, the pay is still respectable. However, there are some pain points that come with this profession, including the potential for a heavy workload and long hours on your feet.
The short answer to the question of whether pharmacy tech pays well is yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States is $35,250. The lowest 10% earn less than $25,000 per year, while the highest 10% earn more than $49,000 per year.
In summary, while pharmacy tech pay may not be as high as some other healthcare professions, it is still competitive. The median annual salary of $35,250 is nothing to scoff at, especially for an entry-level position. With that said, it’s important to consider the potential pain points of this career before diving in.
What Factors Affect Pharmacy Tech Pay?
When it comes to determining how much you can earn as a pharmacy technician, there are several factors to consider. One of the biggest factors is your level of experience. Like most jobs, the longer you work in the field, the more you can expect to earn.
Another factor that can impact your pay is your location. Pharmacy techs in larger cities and urban areas tend to earn more than those in rural areas. Additionally, those who work in hospitals or other healthcare facilities may earn more than those who work in retail pharmacies.
Finally, your level of education and certification can also impact your pay. Technicians who hold certifications, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) designation, may be able to earn more than those without certification.
My Personal Experience with Pharmacy Tech Pay
As a former pharmacy technician, I can attest to the fact that the pay is decent. While I didn’t earn as much as some of my colleagues who were pharmacists, I still earned enough to support myself. However, I did find that the workload was quite heavy at times, and the long hours on my feet could be exhausting.
Is Pharmacy Tech Pay Worth It?
Ultimately, whether or not pharmacy tech pay is worth it depends on your individual situation. If you’re looking for a stable career with competitive pay and don’t mind the potential pain points, then pharmacy tech may be a good fit for you.
How Can You Increase Your Pharmacy Tech Pay?
If you’re already working as a pharmacy technician and want to increase your pay, there are a few things you can do. One option is to pursue additional education or certification. By doing so, you may be able to qualify for higher-paying positions or negotiate for a higher salary.
Another option is to gain experience in a specialized area of pharmacy. For example, if you become well-versed in compounding medications, you may be able to earn more than a general pharmacy tech.
Conclusion
Overall, pharmacy tech pay is competitive and can provide a stable career path for those interested in healthcare. While there are some potential pain points to consider, the median annual salary of $35,250 is nothing to scoff at. If you’re willing to put in the work and don’t mind the potential downsides, then pharmacy tech may be a good fit for you.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I become a pharmacy technician?
A: The first step to becoming a pharmacy technician is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. From there, you can enroll in a pharmacy technician training program and obtain certification. Many states require certification in order to work as a pharmacy tech.
Q: Can pharmacy techs earn more than $35,250 per year?
A: Yes, pharmacy techs who gain experience in specialized areas or pursue additional education or certification may be able to earn more than the median annual salary.
Q: What are some potential pain points of working as a pharmacy technician?
A: Some potential pain points include heavy workloads, long hours on your feet, and dealing with difficult customers/patients.
Q: Is there room for growth in the pharmacy tech field?
A: Yes, pharmacy techs can advance to higher-paying positions, such as lead pharmacy technician or pharmacy manager.
