How Much Does Walgreens Pay Pharmacy Techs In 2023?
If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy technician at Walgreens, one of the first questions you probably have is: how much does Walgreens pay pharmacy techs? Pharmacy technician salaries at Walgreens can vary based on location, experience level, and other factors, but generally range from around $14 to $20 per hour.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key details around Walgreens pharmacy technician pay, including the average hourly wage, factors that impact salary, pay raises and promotions, benefits, and more.
With over 9,000 pharmacy locations across the US, Walgreens is one of the largest employers of pharmacy techs in the country. Understanding the pay range and outlook for this role can help you determine if a pharmacy tech career at Walgreens may be right for you.
Average Hourly Wage for Walgreens Pharmacy Technicians
When considering a career as a pharmacy technician, it’s important to understand the average hourly wage that you can expect to earn. Walgreens, one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, is known for its competitive pay and benefits.
In 2023, the average hourly wage for Walgreens pharmacy technicians varies based on factors such as experience level and location.
Entry-Level Pharmacy Tech Pay
For those just starting their careers as pharmacy technicians, Walgreens offers a competitive entry-level pay rate. On average, entry-level pharmacy technicians at Walgreens can expect to earn around $13 to $16 per hour.
This pay rate is reflective of the industry standard for entry-level positions and can provide a solid foundation for growth and advancement within the company.
Experienced Pharmacy Tech Pay
As pharmacy technicians gain more experience and expertise, their earning potential at Walgreens increases. Experienced pharmacy technicians at Walgreens can earn a higher hourly wage compared to their entry-level counterparts.
On average, experienced pharmacy technicians at Walgreens can expect to earn around $16 to $20 per hour. This increased pay is a recognition of their skills and contributions to the pharmacy team.
Pharmacy Tech Wages by Location
The average hourly wage for Walgreens pharmacy technicians can also vary depending on the location of the store. Cost of living, demand for pharmacy technicians, and regional market conditions can all influence the wages offered.
For example, pharmacy technicians working in metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living may earn a higher wage compared to those in rural areas. It’s important to consider these factors when evaluating potential job opportunities.
For more detailed information on Walgreens pharmacy technician wages, you can visit the official Walgreens website or consult reputable salary comparison websites such as PayScale.com or Glassdoor.com.
These websites provide insights into salary data based on employee reports and can help you make an informed decision about your career path.
Factors That Impact Walgreens Pharmacy Tech Salary
When it comes to determining the salary of a pharmacy technician at Walgreens in 2023, there are several factors that come into play. These factors can greatly influence the amount of money a pharmacy tech can earn. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors:
Experience Level
One of the most significant factors that impact a pharmacy tech’s salary at Walgreens is their level of experience. Generally, the more experience a pharmacy tech has, the higher their salary will be. Pharmacy techs with several years of experience under their belt may be eligible for higher pay rates compared to those who are just starting out in their careers.
It’s important to note that experience not only includes the number of years in the field but also any specialized skills or certifications obtained during that time.
Location
The location where a Walgreens pharmacy tech is employed also plays a significant role in determining their salary. Salaries can vary depending on the cost of living in a particular city or state. For instance, pharmacy techs working in urban areas or areas with a higher cost of living may earn a higher salary compared to those working in rural or less expensive areas.
It’s important to consider the geographical location when assessing the salary potential of a Walgreens pharmacy tech.
Certification
Obtaining certification as a pharmacy technician can have a positive impact on a Walgreens pharmacy tech’s salary. Certification demonstrates a higher level of competence and dedication to the field. Pharmacy techs who are certified may be eligible for higher pay rates compared to their non-certified counterparts.
It’s worth noting that certification requirements and benefits can vary depending on the state, so it’s essential to research the specific requirements in the area where you plan to work.
Additional Duties/Responsibilities
Pharmacy techs at Walgreens who take on additional duties or responsibilities may also see an increase in their salary. These additional duties can include tasks such as inventory management, training new employees, or taking on leadership roles within the pharmacy department.
By demonstrating their ability to handle more responsibilities, pharmacy techs may be eligible for higher pay or promotions within the company.
Understanding the factors that impact a Walgreens pharmacy tech’s salary can help individuals make informed decisions about their career path. By considering factors such as experience level, location, certification, and additional duties/responsibilities, pharmacy techs can have a better understanding of their earning potential within the company.
Opportunities for Pay Raises and Promotions
Walgreens offers several opportunities for pharmacy technicians to increase their pay and advance in their careers. By taking advantage of these opportunities, pharmacy techs can earn higher salaries and enjoy greater job satisfaction.
Annual Performance Reviews
One way that Walgreens recognizes and rewards the hard work of pharmacy technicians is through annual performance reviews. These reviews allow techs to showcase their skills, knowledge, and dedication to their job. Based on their performance, pharmacy techs may be eligible for pay raises or bonuses.
These reviews provide a clear pathway for career advancement and financial growth within the company.
Certification
Obtaining certification as a pharmacy technician can open up additional opportunities for higher pay and promotions. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification, which is highly recognized in the industry.
Pharmacy techs who hold this certification may be eligible for higher starting salaries and are often considered for promotions to more senior roles within the company.
Senior Pharmacy Tech Role
Walgreens offers a senior pharmacy technician role for experienced and highly skilled techs. This role comes with increased responsibilities and a higher pay scale. Senior pharmacy techs may assist in training new hires, managing inventory, and ensuring the smooth operation of the pharmacy.
This position provides an opportunity for pharmacy techs to showcase their leadership abilities and take on a more prominent role within the organization.
Pharmacist Position
For ambitious pharmacy technicians who aspire to become pharmacists, Walgreens provides a clear career path. The company offers various programs and support for pharmacy techs to pursue further education and training to become licensed pharmacists.
Once techs become pharmacists, they can enjoy significantly higher salaries and a greater level of professional autonomy.
For more information on career advancement opportunities and salary ranges for pharmacy technicians at Walgreens, you can visit their official website: www.walgreens.com.
Benefits for Walgreens Pharmacy Technicians
Working as a pharmacy technician at Walgreens comes with a range of benefits that make it an attractive career choice. In addition to competitive pay, pharmacy technicians at Walgreens enjoy various benefits designed to support their well-being and financial stability.
Health Insurance
Walgreens understands the importance of providing comprehensive healthcare coverage to its employees. As a pharmacy technician, you can take advantage of their health insurance plans, which include medical, dental, and vision coverage.
This ensures that you and your family have access to quality healthcare services when you need them most.
Retirement Savings Plans
Planning for the future is essential, and Walgreens recognizes the importance of helping its employees save for retirement. As a pharmacy technician, you have access to retirement savings plans, such as 401(k) plans, allowing you to contribute a portion of your earnings towards your retirement fund.
Walgreens may also provide matching contributions, helping your savings grow even faster.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Walgreens offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) for eligible employees, including pharmacy technicians. This plan allows you to purchase shares of Walgreens stock at a discounted price. Investing in the company you work for can be a smart financial move, potentially providing you with additional income and a sense of ownership in the company’s success.
Tuition Reimbursement
Continuing education is important for professional growth, and Walgreens encourages its pharmacy technicians to pursue further education and training. Through their tuition reimbursement program, eligible employees can receive financial assistance for approved courses or programs related to their job.
This benefit not only helps you expand your knowledge and skills but also demonstrates Walgreens’ commitment to investing in its employees.
Paid Time Off
Walgreens recognizes the importance of work-life balance and understands that employees need time off to recharge and attend to personal matters. As a pharmacy technician, you are entitled to paid time off, which can be used for vacation, sick leave, or personal days.
This ensures that you have the flexibility to take care of your well-being and spend quality time with your loved ones.
These are just a few of the many benefits that Walgreens offers to its pharmacy technicians. The company understands the value of its employees and strives to provide a supportive and rewarding work environment.
For more information about the benefits package offered by Walgreens, visit their official website www.walgreens.com.
Conclusion
In summary, Walgreens provides pharmacy techs with hourly wages averaging $14-$20 per hour, depending on location, experience, certification status, and other factors. While the base pay is quite competitive, there are opportunities to increase pay through annual raises, promotions, and gaining additional certifications.
The retail pharmacy tech role also comes with a strong benefits package including health/dental coverage, retirement planning options, tuition reimbursement, and PTO. With ample room for wage growth and a supportive work environment, Walgreens can be an excellent place to launch and grow your pharmacy technician career.
