Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, handling patient information, and performing various administrative tasks. In Arkansas, pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and their salaries reflect their importance in the industry. In this article, we will explore the average hourly and annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas, as well as the factors that influence their pay.
Arkansas Pharmacy Technician Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas was $34,490 in May 2020. This is slightly lower than the national median annual salary for pharmacy technicians, which was $35,100 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer type.
Average Hourly Salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Arkansas
The average hourly salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas varies depending on the source and the specific job title. However, according to the BLS, the median hourly salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas was $16.58 in May 2020. Here are some average hourly salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas:
- Entry-level pharmacy technicians: $12-$15 per hour
- Experienced pharmacy technicians: $15-$20 per hour
- Senior pharmacy technicians: $18-$25 per hour
Average Annual Salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Arkansas
The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas also varies depending on the source and the specific job title. However, according to the BLS, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas was $34,490 in May 2020. Here are some average annual salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas:
- Entry-level pharmacy technicians: $25,000-$30,000 per year
- Experienced pharmacy technicians: $30,000-$40,000 per year
- Senior pharmacy technicians: $40,000-$50,000 per year
Factors That Influence Pharmacy Technician Salary in Arkansas
Several factors can influence the salary of pharmacy technicians in Arkansas, including:
- Location: Pharmacy technicians working in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those working in rural areas.
- Experience: Experienced pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries than entry-level technicians.
- Employer type: Pharmacy technicians working in hospitals or clinics tend to earn higher salaries than those working in retail pharmacies.
- Certification: Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians.
- Education: Pharmacy technicians with a degree or certificate in pharmacy technology tend to earn higher salaries than those without formal education.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Pharmacy Technician in Arkansas
If you're a pharmacy technician in Arkansas looking to increase your salary, here are some tips:
- Get certified: Obtaining certification as a CPhT can increase your salary potential.
- Gain experience: The more experience you have, the higher your salary potential.
- Pursue further education: Obtaining a degree or certificate in pharmacy technology can increase your salary potential.
- Network: Networking with other pharmacy professionals can help you learn about job opportunities and salary ranges.
- Consider a specialty: Specializing in a particular area of pharmacy technology, such as nuclear pharmacy or compounding, can increase your salary potential.
Conclusion
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, and their salaries reflect their importance in the industry. In Arkansas, pharmacy technicians can expect to earn an average hourly salary of $16.58 and an average annual salary of $34,490. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer type. By understanding the factors that influence salary and taking steps to increase their salary potential, pharmacy technicians in Arkansas can earn a competitive salary and advance their careers.
Gallery of Pharmacy Technician Salaries in Arkansas
FAQs
What is the average hourly salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas?
+The average hourly salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas is $16.58.
What is the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas?
+The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Arkansas is $34,490.
What factors influence pharmacy technician salary in Arkansas?
+Factors that influence pharmacy technician salary in Arkansas include location, experience, employer type, certification, and education.