Are you interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician but unsure about the earning potential? If so, you're not alone. Many people wonder how much do pharmacy techs make yearly and whether it's a financially viable career choice. In this post, we'll explore the salary expectations for pharmacy techs and provide you with an idea of what you can expect to earn in this field.
One of the biggest pain points related to how much do pharmacy techs make yearly is the fear that the salary might not be competitive compared to other healthcare professions. Many people also worry that the job doesn't offer enough growth opportunities or that the investment in education and certification might not be worth the potential financial return.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians in 2020 was $34,610. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $49,130. The salary varies depending on the industry, location, level of education and experience, and job responsibilities.
In conclusion, pharmacy technicians can make a decent living, and the salary is competitive compared to other entry-level healthcare professions. However, it's worth noting that the salary might vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Why is the Salary of Pharmacy Techs Important?
The salary of pharmacy techs is a critical factor to consider when deciding whether to pursue a career in this field. Knowing the potential earning potential can help you plan your finances, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions about your future.
When I started my career as a pharmacy tech, I was unsure about how much I could earn and whether it was enough to support myself. However, after doing some research and speaking to other professionals in the field, I realized that the salary was competitive, and there were growth opportunities available.
Factors that Affect the Salary of Pharmacy Techs
The salary of pharmacy techs depends on several factors, including:
Industry:
Pharmacy techs can work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. The salary might vary depending on the industry, with hospital pharmacy techs earning more than those in retail settings.
Location:
The salary might also vary depending on the location, with pharmacy techs in urban areas earning more than those in rural areas. The cost of living, demand, and competition for jobs can also affect the salary.
My Personal Experience
When I started my career as a pharmacy tech, I was earning around $28,000 annually. However, after gaining some experience and completing additional certification courses, I was able to earn around $40,000 per year. I also had the opportunity to work in different settings, which helped me gain valuable skills and knowledge that helped me advance my career.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Pharmacy Tech
If you're interested in increasing your salary as a pharmacy tech, there are several steps you can take, including:
Get certified:
Completing a certification course can help you gain more knowledge and skills that can make you stand out from other candidates. It can also increase your chances of getting hired and earning a higher salary.
Gain experience:
Working in different settings, taking on additional responsibilities, and volunteering can help you gain more experience and demonstrate your value to your employer.
Final Thoughts
The salary of pharmacy techs might not be as high as some other healthcare professions, but it's still competitive and offers growth opportunities. By taking steps to gain experience, education, and certification, you can increase your earning potential and achieve your career goals.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the average hourly rate for pharmacy techs?
A: The average hourly rate for pharmacy techs is $16.65 per hour.
Q: Do pharmacy techs get paid more for working in hospitals?
A: Yes, pharmacy techs working in hospitals typically earn more than those working in retail settings.
Q: Is it worth getting certified as a pharmacy tech?
A: Yes, getting certified as a pharmacy tech can increase your earning potential and help you stand out from other candidates.
Q: Can pharmacy techs work remotely?
A: It's rare for pharmacy techs to work remotely, as the job involves handling medications and working with patients.
Conclusion of How Much Do Pharmacy Techs Make Yearly
Pharmacy techs can make a decent living, and the salary is competitive compared to other entry-level healthcare professions. However, the salary might vary depending on the industry, location, level of education and experience, and job responsibilities. By taking steps to gain more experience, education, and certification, you can increase your earning potential and achieve your career goals.
