Operating room pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry by assisting with medication preparation, inventory management, and medication delivery for surgical procedures. As this specialization continues to grow in demand, many individuals are curious about the earning potential in this field. In this article, we'll explore how much operating room pharmacy technicians make and the factors that can influence their salaries.
Average Operating Room Pharmacy Technician Salary
While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not provide specific salary data for operating room pharmacy technicians, the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians as of May 2020 was $35,100. However, operating room pharmacy technicians can expect to earn higher salaries due to their specialized skills and the complexity of their work environment. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and work setting.
Factors Influencing Operating Room Pharmacy Technician Salaries
Several factors can impact the salary of an operating room pharmacy technician, including:
Experience: As with most professions, more experienced operating room pharmacy technicians often earn higher salaries than their less-experienced counterparts. Gaining experience through on-the-job training, internships, or volunteering can contribute to increased earning potential.
Education and Certification: Although national certification is not always required, obtaining a certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can make you more competitive in the job market and lead to higher salaries. Additional specialized certifications, such as the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CSPDT) credential, can also enhance your qualifications and earning potential.
Location: Salaries can vary based on the cost of living and job market conditions in different areas. Operating room pharmacy technicians working in urban areas or larger cities may earn higher salaries compared to those in rural areas or smaller towns.
Work Setting: Operating room pharmacy technicians typically work in hospital settings, which often offer higher wages than retail pharmacies or other healthcare facilities.
How to Increase Your Earning Potential as an Operating Room Pharmacy Technician
To increase your earning potential as an operating room pharmacy technician, consider the following strategies:
Pursue continuing education: Furthering your education through specialized training, workshops, or courses can improve your skills and make you more valuable to employers, potentially leading to higher salaries.
Obtain national certification and specialized credentials: Earning a national certification from the PTCB or NHA and obtaining additional specialized certifications, such as the CSPDT, can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your earning potential.
Gain experience: Accumulating experience in the field can lead to more advanced positions and higher salaries. Consider volunteering, internships, or part-time work to build your experience.
Network and join professional associations: Networking with other pharmacy professionals and joining organizations such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) can help you stay informed about job opportunities and industry trends, increasing your chances of securing higher-paying positions.
Conclusion
Operating room pharmacy technician salaries can vary based on experience, education, location, and work setting. By pursuing continuing education, obtaining national certification and specialized credentials, gaining experience, and networking with other professionals, you can increase your earning potential in this growing and rewarding field. As the demand for skilled operating room pharmacy technicians continues to rise, there will likely be ample opportunities for advancement and competitive salaries for those who invest in their professional development.
