Pharmacy Technician
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division. The figures represent the combined occupations of Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacy Assistants which include Pharmacy Technicians (Hospital).
Estimated number of workers in 2004 |
23,900 30,200 26.4% 940 |
(These figures do not include self-employment nor openings due to turnover)
Because of the increased pharmaceutical needs of a larger, older population, growth in this occupation will be almost as fast as the average for all other in the state. Other factors likely to increase the demand for Pharmacy Technicians include scientific advances that will make more drug products available and developments in administering medication. Opportunities will be best in outlying geographic areas. Pharmacy Technician training programs my cause a labor surplus in the area where they are offered.
WAGES, HOURS AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Wages for entry-level Pharmacy Technicians range from $10.25 to $13.25 per hour. Experienced technicians currently earn from $13.25 to about $18.34 per hour. Most hospital pharmacies remain open 16 to 24 hours per day, seven days a week. Pharmacy Technicians may work day, evening, or night shift. For some positions, 10-hours shifts are required. A full-time workweek is five days, 40 hours, including rotating weekends. Many jobs are part-time or per diem/on-call. Benefits include paid vacation, sick leave, medical and dental insurance, and retirement plans. Many hospitals pay vision insurance. (http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov)