Pharmacy Technician Salary

Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician and wondering how much a pharmacy technician makes? If so, you’re not alone. Many people are drawn to this rewarding healthcare field that allows them to help patients get the medications they need to stay healthy. But how much can you expect to earn as a pharmacy technician? In this article, we’ll explore the average pharmacy technician’s salary and factors that can impact your earning potential. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, understanding the salary landscape can help you make informed decisions about your future. So let’s dive in and take a closer look at what you can expect to earn as a pharmacy technician.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

Pharmacy technicians, also known as certified pharmacy technicians (CPHTs), are essential healthcare professionals who work in various medical settings where medications are handled and dispensed. They work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to help ensure smooth and efficient pharmacy operations.

The primary responsibility of a pharmacy technician is to assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications. This includes receiving and processing prescriptions that have been sent electronically, by phone, or by prescription drop-off. Pharmacy technicians must accurately enter prescription information into the pharmacy’s computer system and ensure that patient information is up-to-date and correct.

Once prescriptions are filled, pharmacy technicians are responsible for accurately filling prescription bottles with the correct medications and dosages and applying the appropriate labels. They must also manage and maintain the inventory of medications in the pharmacy to ensure that stock is up-to-date and sufficient.

Pharmacy technicians also have the opportunity to interact with patients by providing them with their medication and reviewing directions and other information with them. They may also assist patients with paying for their medications and resolve issues with insurance carriers.

In addition to their primary responsibilities, pharmacy technicians may also be responsible for managing patient medical records, obtaining refill authorizations from doctors, handling patient complaints and issues, and assisting with other pharmacy-related tasks.

To become a pharmacy technician, individuals must complete either a certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree program. These programs typically require a high school diploma or GED. After completing their training, pharmacy technicians must become certified by passing a certification exam.

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry by ensuring that patients receive the medications they need to stay healthy. Whether working in a hospital, drug store, or grocery store, pharmacy technicians provide essential support to licensed pharmacists and contribute to the overall well-being of patients.

Pharmacy Technician Salary

Are you curious about how much a Pharmacy Technician makes in the United States? According to the latest data from February 27, 2023, the average salary for a Pharmacy Technician in the United States is $37,937 per year. However, this figure can vary depending on several factors, such as education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience.

The salary range for a Pharmacy Technician typically falls between $34,209 and $42,326 per year, providing ample room for growth and development. Factors that can impact your earning potential as a Pharmacy Technician include your level of education and experience, as well as any additional certifications or specialized skills you may have.

At PharmacyTechnician.careers, we provide accurate and current data to help you determine your exact pay as a Pharmacy Technician. Whether you’re just starting your career in the field or looking to advance to higher-level positions, having a clear understanding of the salary landscape can help you make informed decisions about your future.

Factors That Can Affect Your Pharmacy Technician Salary 

As with many professions, years of experience can have a significant impact on a pharmacy technician’s earning potential. The more experience you have in the field, the more opportunities you may have to earn higher pay, take on more responsibilities, and advance your career.

As you gain experience in your role as a pharmacy technician, you may be eligible for bonuses or hourly pay increases, especially if you have demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Asking your employer for feedback after a few months on the job can also help you understand how you’re performing and identify areas where you can improve.

With enough experience and a strong track record of success, you may have the opportunity to take on higher-level or supervisory roles. By taking on additional responsibilities and leadership roles, you can increase your earning potential as well.

According to Payscale, the average pay for a certified pharmacy technician (CPHT) varies by years of experience. Entry-level pharmacy techs typically earn an average of $14.15 per hour, while CPHTs with 20 or more years of experience can earn an average of $19.09 per hour. However, it’s important to keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on a variety of factors, including location, employer, and industry trends.

Overall, gaining experience and taking on additional responsibilities can be key factors in increasing your earning potential as a pharmacy technician. By demonstrating your value to your employer and continuing to learn and grow in your role, you can build a rewarding and lucrative career in this important healthcare field.

How Does Your Employer Affect Your Pharmacy Technician Salary?

The place where you work can have a significant impact on your pharmacy technician salary. In general, pharmacy technicians working in hospitals may earn up to 20% more than those working in drugstores. This is due to the additional skills and expertise required to work in a hospital setting, as well as the higher level of responsibility involved.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that hospitals may have stricter requirements for employment, such as prior work experience and national certification. If you’re starting out in your career as a pharmacy technician, it may make sense to gain experience in a drugstore setting before making a transition to a hospital.

Working in a drugstore setting can also provide valuable experience and opportunities for advancement. In addition to dispensing medication and assisting patients, pharmacy technicians in drugstores may also be responsible for managing inventory, handling insurance issues, and supervising other staff members.

Ultimately, the best place to work as a pharmacy technician will depend on your individual career goals, preferences, and qualifications. Whether you choose to work in a hospital or a drugstore, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies and to continue learning and growing in your role. This will not only help you earn a competitive salary but also ensure that you provide the highest level of care and support to your patients.

How Your Skill Can Affect Pharmacy Technician Salary

Your skill set is another factor that can play a role in determining your salary as a pharmacy technician. If you have prior work experience or specialized skills in certain areas, you may have the opportunity to earn a higher salary than your peers.

According to Payscale, some of the skills that can impact a pharmacy technician’s salary include billing, aseptic processing, order inventory, data entry, and experience with Microsoft Office. These skills are particularly important for pharmacy technicians who work in hospital settings, where they may be responsible for managing patient data, handling inventory, and coordinating with insurance providers.

Experience working in a hospital setting can also be a valuable skill that can lead to higher pay. Hospital pharmacy technicians may be required to have specialized training or certification in areas such as chemotherapy preparation, sterile compounding, or medication reconciliation.

Having a diverse skill set and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies can help you stand out as a pharmacy technician and increase your earning potential. By continually improving your skills and expanding your knowledge, you can build a rewarding and successful career in this important healthcare field.

What Are The Highest Paying States for Pharmacy Technicians?

Where you live can also have a significant impact on your earning potential as a pharmacy technician. Salaries can vary widely depending on location, with some states offering higher pay than others.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), California is currently the highest-paying state for pharmacy technicians, with an average hourly wage of $24.04 or $49,990 per year. Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and the District of Columbia round out the top five highest-paying states, with average hourly wages ranging from $21.65 to $22.52 per hour.

It’s worth noting that these figures are just averages, and salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as your level of education and experience, the specific industry you work in, and local demand for pharmacy technicians. Additionally, the cost of living can also impact your take-home pay, so it’s important to consider all of these factors when deciding where to live and work as a pharmacy technician.

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or looking to advance to higher-level positions, understanding the salary landscape in your city or state can help you make informed decisions about your future. By staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and continually improving your skills, you can build a successful and rewarding career as a pharmacy technician, no matter where you choose to live and work.

Top 5 Cities With The Highest Pharmacy Technician Salary

If you’re a pharmacy technician looking to earn a high salary, consider working in one of the top-paying cities in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the following cities offer some of the highest wages for pharmacy technicians:

1. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA: With an average hourly wage of $28.53 or $59,340 per year, this metropolitan area offers the highest pay for pharmacy technicians in the country.
2. Napa, CA: Pharmacy technicians in Napa earn an average hourly wage of $28.18 or $58,620 per year, making it the second-highest paying city for this profession.
3. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: In this metropolitan area, pharmacy technicians can earn an average hourly wage of $28.07 or $58,390 per year.
4. Vallejo-Fairfield, CA: Pharmacy technicians in Vallejo-Fairfield earn an average hourly wage of $27.43 or $57,060 per year.
5. Santa Rosa, CA: With an average hourly wage of $27.21 or $56,590 per year, Santa Rosa rounds out the top five highest-paying cities for pharmacy technicians.

It’s worth noting that these figures are just averages, and salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as your level of experience, education, and industry. However, if you’re looking to maximize your earning potential as a pharmacy technician, considering working in one of these top-paying cities may be a good place to start.

How To Increase Your Salary As A Pharmacy Technician

If you’re a pharmacy technician looking to increase your salary, there are a variety of strategies you can employ. Some of the most effective ways to earn more money in this profession include:

1. Take on more responsibilities: One way to demonstrate your value to your employer is to ask for additional responsibilities and take on tasks that are outside of your typical job description. By showing that you are a reliable and proactive team member, you can negotiate a higher salary.
2. Get nationally certified: Many employers are willing to pay pharmacy technicians more if they have obtained national certification, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. This certification demonstrates a higher level of knowledge and expertise in the field, which can translate to a higher salary.
3. Look for additional job opportunities: Consider taking on per diem pharmacy tech jobs or exploring travel pharmacy tech positions to supplement your income. These opportunities can be a great way to earn extra money while gaining valuable experience in new settings.
4. Research salary ranges in your area: It’s important to stay up-to-date on salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in your city and surrounding areas. If you are underpaid compared to industry standards, it may be time to negotiate a raise or consider moving to a location with higher pay.
5. Consider relocation: If you live in an area with a high cost of living and low salaries, consider a move to a location with a lower cost of living and higher salaries. This can improve your overall quality of life and give you the opportunity to earn more money in your field.

By being proactive and creative in your approach, you can increase your earning potential as a pharmacy technician and build a successful and rewarding career in this important healthcare field.

How Much Do Pharmacy Technicians Make?

The salary of a pharmacy technician can vary based on a range of factors. Some of the most important factors to consider include the following:

Workplace factors: Where you work can have a significant impact on your salary as a pharmacy technician. For example, pharmacy technicians who work in hospitals may earn more than those who work in retail drug stores or other healthcare settings.

Level of experience: Pharmacy technicians with more years of experience may command higher salaries. Additionally, pharmacy technicians who have obtained national certification or have specialized skills may also be able to earn more.

Geographic location: The state and city where you live can also impact your earning potential as a pharmacy technician. Some states and cities offer higher salaries for pharmacy technicians than others, and the cost of living can also affect how far your salary goes.

According to recent data from Salary.com, the average annual salary for a Pharmacy Technician I in the United States is $37,937 as of February 27, 2023. However, salaries can range widely depending on the factors listed above, with some pharmacy technicians earning less than $25,000 per year while others earn more than $50,000 per year.

By understanding these factors and staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends and developments, you can position yourself to earn a higher salary and build a successful and rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.