What Is the Average Salary in Arizona?
For those wondering, “How much do pharmacy techs make in Arizona?” data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that the average annual salary for a pharmacy technician practicing in Arizona was $45,260 ($21.76 per hour) in May 2023. This figure is slightly above the national average of $43,330 ($20.83 per hour).
Is There a Difference in Pay by Location in Arizona?
It’s important to realize that, while aggregate data can provide you with an average wage for Arizona pharmacy technicians, it does not give a complete picture. In many cases, pay varies by location. Pharmacy technicians who pursue roles in Arizona’s metro areas may receive slightly higher pay than those in more suburban or rural areas.
For example, BLS data indicate that pharmacy technicians in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metropolitan area have an average annual salary of $45,580 ($21.92 per hour).
However, the average annual salary for pharmacy techs in Arizona’s nonmetropolitan areas is $44,060 ($21.18 per hour). While this is still higher than the national average, these technicians won’t get paid as much as those in the cities.
As you consider these wage trends, it is crucial to weigh your options against the cost of living in each location. The slightly lower pay in non-metro areas may very well be worth it if you are also incurring lower costs for housing, transportation, and even household goods.
Factors That Influence Pay
When asking, “How much do pharmacy techs make in Arizona?” it’s important to realize that several factors beyond location can influence your pay rates as a pharmacy technician.
For example, pharmacy techs who have earned their certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) report earning more than $3.00 per hour more than pharmacy technician trainees. That pay rate increases to over $5.00 more with an advanced credential.
Additionally, pharmacy technicians with more experience may earn more than those who are just starting in their careers. Experience not only helps solidify your skillset, but it can also give you the ability to access career advancement opportunities into supervisory or management roles, which often offer higher pay.
Employers may also be willing to pay a premium for pharmacy technicians who have advanced or specialized training. It may be harder to find pharmacy techs who have certifications or experience in compounding, oncology, or medication management, and many realize that higher wages can help attract and retain top talent.
Finally, shift differentials may also make a difference in how much you earn as a pharmacy technician.
Working night or weekend shifts in a hospital or long-term care setting may earn you more pay than those who primarily work during daytime business hours because it can be challenging for employers to find pharmacy technicians who are available during those hours.
Job Outlook in Arizona
The Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale area has one of the highest concentrations of pharmacy technicians in the nation.
According to BLS data, its location quotient (the ratio of the area concentration of pharmacy technicians to the national average concentration) is greater than one, indicating that it has a higher prevalence (or share) of pharmacy technician employment as compared to the rest of the nation.
Official data projects nearly 25% growth in this already in-demand profession between 2022 and 2032, indicating plenty of opportunities for those looking to move into pharmacy technician roles. Much of this demand is due to the growing impact of Arizona’s healthcare sector, along with the rapidly aging population and high prevalence of chronic diseases.
Healthcare institutions and companies have recently spent billions upgrading and expanding facilities, and organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation have created statewide plans to increase the state’s healthcare workforce to ensure there are enough care options to meet the rising demand.
How Techs Can Increase Earnings in AZ
How much do pharmacy techs make in Arizona? It often depends, as there are multiple ways to raise your rate of pay as an Arizona pharmacy technician. You may consider becoming a pharmacy technician by earning your CPhT credential from the PTCB, as this can earn you significantly more money.
This certification requires the completion of an approved training program (or a minimum of 500 hours of supervised work experience), a passing score on the exam, and the completion of continuing education courses for credential maintenance.
PTCB also offers specialized credentials in nonsterile compounding, medication therapy management, regulatory compliance, and more. Building skills in a specialty area can increase your pay rate because your knowledge is simultaneously in high demand and quite difficult to find.
Once you have some experience under your belt, you might also consider moving into lead or senior tech roles. Additional responsibilities in these jobs may include managing inventory, working more closely with patients, or training and supervising other pharmacy technicians, which is why your wages will likely be higher.
Support Your Career Growth in Arizona With CE From RxCe
The first step to increasing your earning potential as an Arizona pharmacy technician is to make sure you maintain your ability to keep working in the state.
The Arizona State Board of Pharmacy requires technicians to earn 20 hours of continuing education credits by October 31 of every year, three of which must be opioid/controlled substance-related courses.
RxCe offers easy options to help you complete your CE at your convenience. We offer memberships at an affordable price to gain access to all of our ACPE-accredited courses and live webinars. Both our unlimited membership and our pay-per-course option come with a 100% money-back guarantee to ensure your satisfaction.
Enroll in a membership plan today and reap the benefits of career longevity as a well-paid, highly-skilled pharmacy technician.
*In addition to being accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), RxCe has also achieved joint accreditation for continuing education for physicians and physician assistants. Stay tuned for joint accreditation articles over the next few months!
