Pharmacy Technician Salary Advice

Several factors, such as the level of qualification, the area in the US where the job is based, and the type of industry all determine the rate at which a pharmacy technician salary is set. But the salary rate is not the only thing you should consider when choosing between which jobs to accept; the additional benefits that a particular job can offer are quite crucial too. Take heed, for a pharmacy technician salary can also include additional benefits that the technician can take advantage of. However, these additional benefits are not standard and may vary depending on the employer.

Aside from their regular pay, benefits might include paid leaves, health care, and even a retirement plan. A share in company profits, sales commissions, and performance bonuses are just some more examples of additional benefits. Of course, these benefits still depend on the decision of the employer. If you're hired in an entry level-position, expect to take home an annual compensation of $28,500- that's according to government reports. If you stay on the job for three consecutive years, your salary may increase up to $32,000. Larger institutions, though, can pay their hardworking pharmacy technicians in an entry-level position as high as $38,000 in annual pay.

If you have pharmacy technician certification, you will most likely receive a little better pay than non-certified pharmacy technicians. This is an advantage if you are considering taking one. But in some instances, a certification may not make a huge difference. On the prerogative of the pharmacist, increases in pharmacy tech salary may be given on a yearly basis only.


The pharmacy technician salary may also differ depending on the type and size of the pharmacy. Big time company-associated pharmacies do certainly have higher pay than the small time private pharmacies. Another way of earning a higher salary is by working during the evenings or on weekends. Moreover, pharmacy technicians have to go through a recertification process every two years. This is done in order for them to be acquainted with the latest developments in the pharmaceutical industry, and be updated with new laws and regulations with regards to medicines and drugs. Another advantage of this is that the pharmacy tech can get familiarized again with various pharmaceutical concepts.

You will not have that feeling of being stagnant in your career because pharmacy technicians can be promoted to higher positions. After three years on the job, an entry-level technician will usually be an intermediary pharmacy tech. Your salary scale will go up to about $31,500 to $39,000 once you are promoted to this next position. If you're that good, and your company can afford it, they can pay you as much as $43,000. Their salary scale will range from $41,300 to $53,100 but can top $60,000. Some people choose to be in this career not just because of its pharmacy technician salary, but also the satisfying feeling of being able to help someone in need. A good pay, superb job security, and the satisfaction of being able to help others, what more would you need?=