Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, working closely with pharmacists to ensure the safe and effective dispensing of medications to patients. If you're considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Georgia, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary. In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at pharmacy technician salaries in Georgia, including the average salary, factors that affect salary, and tips for increasing your earning potential.
Average Pharmacy Technician Salary in Georgia
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Georgia was $34,610 in May 2020. This is slightly lower than the national average of $35,100. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.
Salary by Industry
Pharmacy technician salaries can vary depending on the industry. Here are some average salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in different industries in Georgia:
- Retail pharmacies: $32,410 - $42,110
- Hospital pharmacies: $35,610 - $48,110
- Clinical pharmacies: $38,610 - $52,110
- Mail-order pharmacies: $33,610 - $45,110
- Government pharmacies: $36,610 - $50,110
Factors That Affect Salary
Several factors can affect a pharmacy technician's salary in Georgia. Here are some of the most significant factors:
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Experience
Experience is one of the most significant factors that affect a pharmacy technician's salary. Those with more experience tend to earn higher salaries. According to the BLS, pharmacy technicians with 1-2 years of experience earn an average annual salary of $31,610, while those with 5-9 years of experience earn an average annual salary of $40,610.
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Location
Location is another significant factor that affects a pharmacy technician's salary. Cities tend to have higher salaries than rural areas. For example, pharmacy technicians in Atlanta earn an average annual salary of $38,610, while those in rural areas earn an average annual salary of $31,610.
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Certification
Certification can also affect a pharmacy technician's salary. Those who are certified tend to earn higher salaries than those who are not certified. According to the BLS, certified pharmacy technicians earn an average annual salary of $36,610, while non-certified pharmacy technicians earn an average annual salary of $32,610.
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Education
Education can also affect a pharmacy technician's salary. Those with higher levels of education tend to earn higher salaries. For example, pharmacy technicians with an associate's degree earn an average annual salary of $34,610, while those with a bachelor's degree earn an average annual salary of $40,610.
Tips for Increasing Your Earning Potential
If you're a pharmacy technician in Georgia looking to increase your earning potential, here are some tips:
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Get Certified
Certification can significantly increase your earning potential. The most common certification for pharmacy technicians is the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
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Gain Experience
Experience is essential for increasing your earning potential. Try to gain as much experience as possible in different settings, such as retail, hospital, and clinical pharmacies.
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Further Your Education
Furthering your education can also increase your earning potential. Consider pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology.
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Develop Your Skills
Developing your skills can also increase your earning potential. Consider taking courses or attending workshops to develop your skills in areas such as pharmacy software, inventory management, and customer service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pharmacy technician salaries in Georgia vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry. However, with the right skills, experience, and education, you can increase your earning potential and have a successful career as a pharmacy technician in Georgia.
How much do pharmacy technicians make in Georgia?
+The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Georgia is $34,610.
What factors affect a pharmacy technician's salary in Georgia?
+Factors that affect a pharmacy technician's salary in Georgia include experience, location, certification, and education.
How can I increase my earning potential as a pharmacy technician in Georgia?
+You can increase your earning potential as a pharmacy technician in Georgia by getting certified, gaining experience, furthering your education, and developing your skills.