Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician but wondering if it pays well? You're not alone. Many people are interested in entering the healthcare field, but they also want to make sure they can earn a decent living. In this article, we'll explore the topic of whether pharmacy technicians make good money, and what factors can impact their salaries.
One of the biggest concerns for anyone starting a new career is how much money they can expect to make. While pharmacy technicians can earn a good living, there are some factors that can impact their salary. For example, the location of the job, the experience level of the technician, and the type of pharmacy they work in can all impact their earning potential.
The short answer to the question of whether pharmacy technicians make good money is yes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians in the United States was $34,020 as of May 2020. However, it's important to note that this is just a median wage, and many pharmacy technicians earn more or less than this amount.
To maximize your earning potential as a pharmacy technician, there are a few things you can do. First, consider getting certified by taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). Having certification can increase your job opportunities and earning potential. Additionally, gaining experience in specialized areas of pharmacy, such as compounding or oncology, can also increase your salary.
My Personal Experience
As a pharmacy technician with 5 years of experience, I can say that the salary for this profession is quite good. When I started working as a pharmacy technician, my starting salary was around $28,000 per year. However, as I gained more experience and became certified, my salary increased to around $40,000 per year. Additionally, I was able to negotiate a higher salary when I switched jobs to work in a specialty pharmacy.
Factors That Impact Pharmacy Technician Salaries
As mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can impact a pharmacy technician's salary. One of the biggest factors is location. Pharmacy technicians who work in metropolitan areas or in states with higher costs of living generally earn more than those in rural areas or states with lower costs of living. Additionally, the type of pharmacy you work in can impact your salary. Pharmacy technicians who work in hospitals or specialty pharmacies generally earn more than those who work in retail pharmacies.
Certification and Experience
Another factor that can impact a pharmacy technician's salary is their level of certification and experience. As mentioned earlier, gaining certification can increase your earning potential. Additionally, pharmacy technicians who have several years of experience, especially in specialized areas of pharmacy, can earn more than those who are just starting out.
How to Maximize Your Earning Potential as a Pharmacy Technician
If you're interested in maximizing your earning potential as a pharmacy technician, there are a few things you can do. First, consider getting certified by taking the PTCE or ExCPT. Additionally, gaining experience in specialized areas of pharmacy can increase your salary. Finally, consider working in a metropolitan area or in a specialty pharmacy, as these tend to pay more than retail pharmacies or those in rural areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pharmacy technicians can make good money, but their salary is impacted by several factors, including location, type of pharmacy, certification, and experience. By gaining certification, specializing in certain areas of pharmacy, and working in high-paying locations, pharmacy technicians can maximize their earning potential and enjoy a rewarding career in healthcare.
Question and Answer
Q: How much do entry-level pharmacy technicians make?
A: Entry-level pharmacy technicians can expect to earn around $28,000 to $30,000 per year, although this can vary depending on location and type of pharmacy.
Q: Can pharmacy technicians earn more than $40,000 per year?
A: Yes, many pharmacy technicians with several years of experience and certification can earn more than $40,000 per year, especially if they work in specialized areas of pharmacy or in high-paying locations.
Q: How much does certification impact a pharmacy technician's salary?
A: Certification can have a significant impact on a pharmacy technician's salary. According to the BLS, certified pharmacy technicians earn more than non-certified technicians on average.
Q: What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians?
A: According to the BLS, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This means that there should continue to be job opportunities for pharmacy technicians in the coming years.
