pharmacy tech Salary is a key worker in the healthcare system. They help pharmacists prepare and give out medicine. If you are thinking about this job, one of the first things you might ask is, “How much does a pharmacy tech make?”
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In this article, we’ll break down the pharmacy tech salary, what affects it, and how you can earn more in this growing field.
What Does a Pharmacy Tech Do?
A pharmacy technician supports the pharmacist. They work in drugstores, hospitals, and clinics. Their tasks include:
- Counting pills and labeling bottles
- Taking phone calls from patients or doctors
- Managing inventory (keeping track of medicine stock)
- Handling customer service
- Processing insurance claims
Pharmacy techs do not give medical advice, but they are important in keeping the pharmacy running smoothly.
How Much Is the Average Pharmacy Tech Salary?
In the U.S., the average salary for a pharmacy technician is around $37,000 per year or about $18 per hour. However, this amount can change depending on where you work, your experience, and your certification.
Entry-Level Salary
If you’re just starting out, you can expect to earn between $28,000 and $33,000 per year. Entry-level pharmacy techs often work in retail pharmacy tech salary drugstores like CVS or Walgreens.
Experienced Pharmacy Tech Salary
With 3–5 years of experience and certification, your salary can rise to $40,000–$48,000 per year or more.
Where You Work Matters
Your work setting can affect how much you earn. Some employers pay more than others.
Retail Pharmacy
- Average pay: $16–$18 per hour
- Example: CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid
- These jobs are more common but usually pay less.
Hospitals and Clinics
- Average pay: $20–$25 per hour
- Hospitals often pay more because the work is faster-paced and more complex.
- These jobs may also offer better benefits.
Government Jobs
- Working for the VA (Veterans Affairs) or military hospitals can earn you higher pay and great benefits.
State-by-State Salary Differences
Where you live also plays a big role in how much you can earn.
Highest Paying States (on average):
- California: $24–$28 per hour
- Washington: $22–$26 per hour
- Alaska and Oregon also pay well.
Lower-Paying States:
- Mississippi, West Virginia, and Alabama tend to pay less, around $14–$16 per hour.
How to Earn More as a Pharmacy Tech
Want to boost your income? Here are a few tips:
Get Certified
Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) can help you to pharmacy tech salary earn more. Employers often prefer certified workers and may pay higher wages.
Gain Experience
The more years you work, the more valuable you become. Experienced techs can train others or take on lead roles.
Work in a Hospital
As mentioned earlier, hospital pharmacy techs usually make more money than those in retail.
Keep Learning
Some techs go back to school to become pharmacists or nurses. Others learn new skills like sterile compounding or inventory management, which can lead to higher pay.
Job Outlook—Is It a Good Career?
Yes! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says jobs for pharmacy techs will grow by about 6% over the next 10 years. That’s a stable career with many openings.
Why the growth?
- More people need medication.
- Pharmacies are opening in more places.
- Hospitals need techs to manage complex drug systems.
Is It Worth Becoming a Pharmacy Tech?
If you enjoy helping people and want a stable job with room to grow, becoming a pharmacy technician is a great choice.
Pros:
- Short training (can take less than a year)
- Many job locations to choose from
- Entry into the medical field
- Certification improves income and career growth.
Cons:
- Starting pay may be low.
- Standing for long hours
- Can be busy and fast-paced
- Final ThoughtsPharmacy technicians are in demand and play a vital role in healthcare. While the starting salary may not be very high, there is plenty of room to grow. With the right skills, experience, and location, you can build a steady and satisfying career.
If you’re looking for a job that doesn’t require a college degree and offers a chance to help others, becoming a pharmacy tech might be the perfect choice for you.
FAQs
Do pharmacy techs make good money?
Pharmacy techs make a decent income, especially with certification and experience. While it’s not a high-paying job, pharmacy tech salary it offers stability and benefits.
How can I make more money as a pharmacy tech?
You can earn more by:
- Getting certified
- Working in a hospital or government setting
- Moving to a state with higher pay
- Gaining special skills or experience
How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech?
Training can take as little as 6–12 months. Some programs are online. After that, you can take the certification exam (PTCB or NHA).
Do I need a college degree?
No, most pharmacy techs do not need a college degree. A high school diploma and training program are usually enough.
Is pharmacy tech a stressful job?
It can be busy, especially in hospitals or during flu season. But many find the job rewarding because they are helping people stay healthy.
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