The demand for skilled pharmacy technicians continues to grow, driven by an aging population and an increased focus on healthcare accessibility. As a result, certified pharmacy technicians (CPhT) are in high demand, with competitive salaries and benefits. But what is the average certified pharmacy tech salary, and how can you boost yours?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States was $34,020 in May 2020. However, certified pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries, with the average CPhT salary ranging from $40,000 to over $60,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer.
Factors Affecting Certified Pharmacy Tech Salary
Several factors contribute to the variation in certified pharmacy tech salaries. These include:
- Location: Pharmacy technicians working in urban areas or in states with high costs of living tend to earn higher salaries.
- Experience: More experienced CPhTs can command higher salaries, especially if they have specialized skills or certifications.
- Employer: Hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and specialty pharmacies often offer different salary ranges.
- Education and certification: CPhTs with associate's degrees or bachelor's degrees, or those with specialized certifications, such as chemotherapy certification, may earn higher salaries.
Average Certified Pharmacy Tech Salary by State
Here is a breakdown of average CPhT salaries by state:
| State | Average CPhT Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $54,630 |
| New York | $51,410 |
| Texas | $44,810 |
| Florida | $42,690 |
| Illinois | $46,330 |
Key Points
- The average certified pharmacy tech salary ranges from $40,000 to over $60,000 per year.
- Factors affecting CPhT salary include location, experience, employer, education, and certification.
- CPhTs with specialized skills or certifications, such as chemotherapy certification, may earn higher salaries.
- Staying up-to-date with continuing education requirements and obtaining additional certifications can increase earning potential.
- Specializing in a particular area, such as oncology or pediatrics, can significantly boost salary.
Boosting Your Certified Pharmacy Tech Salary
To increase your earning potential as a certified pharmacy technician, consider the following strategies:
1. Gain Experience and Specialize
Gaining experience in a variety of settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and specialty pharmacies, can help you develop a range of skills and increase your versatility. Specializing in a particular area, such as oncology or pediatrics, can also demonstrate your expertise and value to employers.
2. Pursue Additional Certifications
Obtaining additional certifications, such as chemotherapy certification or immunization certification, can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and increase your earning potential. Many professional organizations, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), offer certification programs.
3. Develop Soft Skills
Developing strong soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, can help you build strong relationships with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and opportunities for advancement.
4. Stay Up-to-Date with Continuing Education
Staying current with continuing education requirements and staying up-to-date with industry developments can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and increase your earning potential.
What is the job outlook for certified pharmacy technicians?
+The job outlook for certified pharmacy technicians is excellent, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 7% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.
Can I work as a certified pharmacy technician with a certification from another state?
+Certification requirements vary by state, so it's essential to check with the state's pharmacy board to determine if your certification is recognized.
How do I maintain my certified pharmacy technician certification?
+Certified pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to certification maintenance requirements to maintain their certification.
In conclusion, certified pharmacy technicians are in high demand, with competitive salaries and benefits. By gaining experience, specializing in a particular area, pursuing additional certifications, developing soft skills, and staying up-to-date with continuing education requirements, you can increase your earning potential and build a rewarding career in this field.