The role of a pharmacy technician is a vital one in the healthcare industry, providing support to pharmacists and helping to ensure the smooth operation of pharmacies. In Iowa, pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the state's healthcare system, and their salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. In this article, we will delve into the world of Iowa pharmacy tech salaries, exploring the average salaries, factors that influence salaries, and the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in the state.
Pharmacy Technician Salaries in Iowa
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa was $34,690 in May 2020. This is slightly lower than the national average of $35,100. However, salaries can vary depending on the location within the state. For example, pharmacy technicians working in larger cities such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids tend to earn higher salaries than those working in smaller towns and rural areas.
Salary Ranges in Iowa
Salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in Iowa can vary depending on factors such as experience, employer, and location. Here are some approximate salary ranges for pharmacy technicians in Iowa:
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $25,000 - $30,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years of experience): $30,000 - $40,000 per year
- Experienced (5-10 years of experience): $40,000 - $55,000 per year
- Senior-level (10+ years of experience): $55,000 - $70,000 per year
Factors That Influence Salaries
Several factors can influence the salaries of pharmacy technicians in Iowa. Some of the most significant factors include:
- Location: Pharmacy technicians working in larger cities tend to earn higher salaries than those working in smaller towns and rural areas.
- Employer: Pharmacy technicians working in hospitals and clinics tend to earn higher salaries than those working in retail pharmacies.
- Experience: More experienced pharmacy technicians tend to earn higher salaries than entry-level technicians.
- Certification: Certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians.
Certification and Salary
Certification can play a significant role in determining the salary of a pharmacy technician in Iowa. According to the BLS, certified pharmacy technicians (CPhTs) tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians. In Iowa, the average annual salary for CPhTs is around $38,000, compared to around $32,000 for non-certified technicians.
Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Iowa
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Iowa is positive, with the BLS predicting a 4% growth in employment opportunities between 2020 and 2030. This is slightly lower than the national average of 4.5%. However, the demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to remain strong, driven by an aging population and an increased focus on healthcare.
Employment Opportunities
Pharmacy technicians can find employment opportunities in a variety of settings, including:
- Retail pharmacies
- Hospitals and clinics
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Government agencies
Conclusion
In conclusion, the salaries of pharmacy technicians in Iowa can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. However, the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in the state is around $34,690. Certification can play a significant role in determining salary, with CPhTs tend to earn higher salaries than non-certified technicians. The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Iowa is positive, with a predicted 4% growth in employment opportunities between 2020 and 2030.
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the world of Iowa pharmacy tech salaries. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
What is the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?
+The average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Iowa is around $34,690.
What factors can influence the salaries of pharmacy technicians in Iowa?
+Factors that can influence the salaries of pharmacy technicians in Iowa include location, experience, employer, and certification.
What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Iowa?
+The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Iowa is positive, with a predicted 4% growth in employment opportunities between 2020 and 2030.