Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, assisting licensed pharmacists with dispensing medication, processing prescriptions, and performing administrative tasks. As the demand for healthcare services continues to grow, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians is on the rise. If you're considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Florida, it's essential to understand the average salary ranges in the state.
In this article, we'll delve into the average hourly and annual salaries for pharmacy technicians in Florida, exploring the factors that influence compensation and providing insights into the job market.
Florida Pharmacy Technician Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the United States was $34,860 in May 2020. In Florida, the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians is slightly higher, ranging from $36,000 to $42,000, depending on location, experience, and employer.
Average Hourly Salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Florida
The average hourly salary for pharmacy technicians in Florida varies depending on the employer, location, and level of experience. On average, pharmacy technicians in Florida can expect to earn between $17 and $22 per hour.
Here are some average hourly salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in major cities in Florida:
- Miami: $18-$23 per hour
- Tampa: $17-$22 per hour
- Orlando: $16-$21 per hour
- Jacksonville: $16-$20 per hour
Factors Influencing Pharmacy Technician Salary in Florida
Several factors contribute to the variation in pharmacy technician salaries in Florida. Some of the key factors include:
Location
Salaries for pharmacy technicians can vary significantly depending on the location within Florida. Cities with a higher cost of living, such as Miami and Tampa, tend to offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses.
Experience
Pharmacy technicians with more experience tend to earn higher salaries. Those with specialized certifications, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), may also command higher salaries.
Employer
The type of employer can also impact salary. Hospital pharmacies, for example, tend to pay higher salaries than retail pharmacies.
Education and Certification
Pharmacy technicians with post-secondary education or certification may earn higher salaries than those without. The PTCB and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offer certification programs for pharmacy technicians.
Salary Ranges for Pharmacy Technicians in Florida by Employer
Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in Florida by employer:
- Hospital pharmacies: $38,000-$50,000 per year
- Retail pharmacies: $32,000-$45,000 per year
- Mail-order pharmacies: $35,000-$50,000 per year
- Government agencies: $36,000-$52,000 per year
Salary Ranges for Pharmacy Technicians in Florida by City
Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in major cities in Florida:
- Miami: $38,000-$52,000 per year
- Tampa: $36,000-$50,000 per year
- Orlando: $34,000-$48,000 per year
- Jacksonville: $32,000-$45,000 per year
Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Florida
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Florida is promising, with the BLS predicting a 4% growth in employment opportunities through 2028. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services and the need for skilled pharmacy technicians to support licensed pharmacists.
Top 5 Cities for Pharmacy Technician Jobs in Florida
Here are the top 5 cities for pharmacy technician jobs in Florida, based on the number of job openings and salary ranges:
- Miami: 1,500+ job openings, $38,000-$52,000 per year
- Tampa: 1,200+ job openings, $36,000-$50,000 per year
- Orlando: 1,000+ job openings, $34,000-$48,000 per year
- Jacksonville: 900+ job openings, $32,000-$45,000 per year
- Fort Lauderdale: 800+ job openings, $35,000-$50,000 per year
Conclusion
In conclusion, the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Florida ranges from $36,000 to $42,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and employer. With a promising job outlook and a growing demand for healthcare services, pharmacy technicians can expect a stable and rewarding career in Florida.
If you're considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Florida, it's essential to research the job market, salary ranges, and employer requirements to make an informed decision.
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences as a pharmacy technician in Florida. What do you think are the most significant factors influencing pharmacy technician salaries in the state? Share your insights in the comments below.
What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in Florida?
+The average salary for pharmacy technicians in Florida ranges from $36,000 to $42,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and employer.
What are the top 5 cities for pharmacy technician jobs in Florida?
+The top 5 cities for pharmacy technician jobs in Florida are Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale.
What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Florida?
+The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Florida is promising, with a 4% growth in employment opportunities predicted through 2028.