Pharmacy technician salaries in Texas
Texas combines a strong job market, excellent education opportunities and diverse work environments, making it a top choice for pharmacy technicians. Here's a deeper look at what Texas has to offer:
- Growing demand for pharmacy services: Texas is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with a diverse and expanding population that drives demand for pharmacy services in retail, hospital and specialty settings. The state also has a growing number of specialty pharmacies and compounding pharmacies, offering advanced career opportunities for technicians with certification or additional training.
- Attractive salaries: Pharmacy technicians in Texas earn salaries above the national median in metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas and Austin, with opportunities for advancement in health systems or specialized roles. Many employers in Texas invest in technicians by covering certification and continuing education costs, which enables career advancement, mobility and potential salary increases.
- Diverse work settings: Texas offers pharmacy technician positions in various settings, from bustling urban hospitals to rural community pharmacies, providing a range of lifestyle options. It is also home to major healthcare systems and research facilities, such as the Texas Medical Center in Houston, creating opportunities for technicians in cutting-edge pharmaceutical and medical fields.
In this Article
Overview of pharm techs in Texas
There are 38,960 pharmacy technicians in Texas which means nearly three people are pharm techs for every 1,000 people living in the state, said the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median wage per hour is $21 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 7.2%, faster than the job growth rate for all other career fields combined, said the BLS.
Texas is a great state for pharmacy technicians and ranks second in the U.S. for highest employment of pharm techs after California, said the BLS, with the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area ranking fourth nationally for highest employment of pharmacy technicians in the U.S. It also takes the number one spot for highest employment for the North Texas Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area. With this positive outlook in mind, here are five primary employers of pharm techs in Texas:
- Texas Medical Center (TMC), Houston, TX: TMC is the largest medical complex in the world, offering pharmacy technicians roles in hospital pharmacies, research and specialty care. Technicians can work in cutting-edge areas such as oncology, pediatrics and clinical trials.
- H-E-B Pharmacy, Multiple locations across South and Central Texas: A leading regional supermarket chain with pharmacies integrated into many locations, H-E-B Pharmacy offers customer-facing roles and growth opportunities in pharmacy management or compounding.
- Cook Children's Health Care System, Fort Worth, TX: Cook's Children's Health Care provides opportunities in pediatric pharmacy, a specialized field requiring attention to unique dosage formulations and family-focused care in hospital and outpatient settings.
- claRx Hub City Pharmacy, Lubbock and West Texas: claRx provides a close-knit work environment and training in advanced pharmaceutical compounding techniques. The pharmacy specializes in compounding, offering roles in creating customized medications for patients.
- CVS Health Distribution Center, Dallas metro area: CVS focuses on supply chain and distribution roles where pharmacy technicians can ensure medications are accurately processed and delivered to retail locations. The distribution center is a non-traditional setting for pharmacy technicians seeking roles beyond patient-facing positions.
Salary quick stats for TX
While the median national salary for pharmacy technicians is just over $43,460 a year, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have, what professional certifications you have earned and your level of education. Almost universally throughout the state, the median annual salary for different cities is higher than the national median.
ANNUAL MEDIAN SALARY OF
$43,920
Pharmacy technicians in Texas
It's important to understand that salaries may also vary based on location within the state. The salary widget below provides the median national wage for Texas pharm techs along with data for different metro areas in the state, listed by highest paying first.
Median annual salaries in Texas
10%$35,200
25%$36,990
50%$43,920Median
75%$47,270
90%$55,350
Median Hourly Wage$21
Job growth7.2%
Total Employment41,610
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Killeen-Temple, TX | $46,790 | $36,300 | $58,820 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $45,300 | $36,340 | $56,140 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $45,290 | $35,200 | $56,280 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $44,940 | $36,200 | $57,910 |
| Eagle Pass, TX | $44,790 | $35,570 | $61,750 |
| Midland, TX | $44,730 | $36,850 | $55,940 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $43,290 | $36,250 | $56,120 |
| Odessa, TX | $42,080 | $33,730 | $58,510 |
| San Angelo, TX | $41,840 | $31,710 | $51,180 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $41,690 | $35,240 | $50,630 |
| Waco, TX | $41,630 | $36,100 | $57,140 |
| Victoria, TX | $41,110 | $35,470 | $49,040 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | $40,460 | $36,600 | $48,190 |
| Amarillo, TX | $40,280 | $31,930 | $48,470 |
| Abilene, TX | $40,030 | $33,270 | $46,860 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2033. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for pharmacy technicians in Texas
The salary range for pharmacy technicians in Texas typically spans from $35,200 to $55,350 per year. This salary range accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level or management roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Pay by metro area within Texas
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state, and as a rule, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub such as Houston, Dallas, Austin or Fort Worth, which are home to high profile hospitals, pharmacy chains, university health facilities and big box stores, pay may be more competitive. That said, here's what the BLS reports as highest paying cities in the U.S. As you can see, California and Washington metro areas dominate the top 10 list.
Salary growth and job outlook
The pharmaceutical industry in general is experiencing growth, with the BLS projecting 7.2% job growth over the next decade for technicians.
Texas is expected to experience a growth rate for pharmacy technicians higher than the national average. Some estimates suggest the state's job growth rate may exceed 7 to 8% over the same period that the BLS reported, driven by the state's rapid population growth and the increasing demand for healthcare services. Texas being home to several major healthcare hubs and research institutions also contributes to demand for pharmacy technicians.
Top reasons to expect better than average job growth for pharm techs in Texas include:
Population growth
- Texas' rapidly expanding population, including a large and diverse aging demographic, will continue to drive the need for pharmacy technicians in both retail and healthcare settings. The increasing number of older adults will fuel demand for prescription medications and specialized pharmaceutical services.
Healthcare expansion
- The growing demand for healthcare services will drive more opportunities in both urban centers and underserved rural areas. The presence of major medical facilities like the Texas Medical Center in Houston, along with new healthcare projects and clinics, will likely result in more pharmacy technician roles.
Specialty and compounding pharmacies
- With the growing complexity of medications, including biologics and compounded drugs, there is an increasing demand for specialized pharmacy technicians. Texas, with its large health systems and independent pharmacies, will likely see more opportunities in areas like sterile compounding, oncology and clinical pharmacy services.
Telehealth and online pharmacies
- The rise of telehealth services and the expansion of online pharmacies, particularly in Texas' tech-driven economy, will further fuel demand for pharmacy technicians. This will create new roles in medication fulfillment, customer support and pharmaceutical consultation in digital settings.
Workforce shortages and pharm tech certification
- The shortage of pharmacists and the emphasis on expanding the scope of practice for pharmacy technicians will contribute to job growth. In Texas, like the rest of the U.S., the growing reliance on certified pharmacy technicians to handle more clinical and administrative tasks will continue to boost demand.
Legislative and policy
- Changes in Texas healthcare regulations, such as expanded duties for pharmacy technicians—allowing technicians to take on more responsibilities in vaccine administration or medication therapy management, for example—may positively affect job growth and role diversification within the state.
Factors affecting pharm tech salaries in Texas
When estimating pharmacy technician salaries in Texas, several key factors beyond the expected education, experience, certification and location play a significant role. These factors influence not just the base pay but also potential bonuses, benefits and long-term earning potential. Understanding these can provide insight into how pharmacy technicians might maximize their earning potential within the state. Here's a brief look each factor:
Employer type: The type of employer—whether it's a hospital, research institution or specialty pharmacy—impacts salary levels. For example, hospital and research settings typically offer higher wages due to the specialized skills required in those environments.
Union presence: Pharmacy technicians working in unionized environments may benefit from negotiated pay scales and improved benefits, leading to higher salaries compared to those in non-unionized workplaces.
Need for services: Pharmacy technician roles in high-demand or underserved areas, such as rural regions or specialized fields like oncology or geriatrics, may command higher salaries due to the difficulty of filling these roles.
State regulations: Legislative changes that expand the duties or scope of practice for pharmacy technicians can lead to increased responsibilities, which, in turn, may result in higher wages as technicians take on more complex tasks.
Benefits: In addition to base salaries, the benefits package offered by employers—such as health insurance, bonuses and support for continuing education—may significantly increase the overall compensation level.
What should I do if I suspect I am being paid incorrectly as a pharm tech in Texas?
If you suspect a pay disparity in Texas, you can use the following resources and steps to address the issue:
Know your rights
- Equal Pay Act (EPA): The federal Equal Pay Act requires employers to provide equal pay for equal work regardless of gender. It applies to most employers in Texas.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits wage discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
- Texas Equal Pay Law: Addresses pay disparities but is more limited than federal protections, primarily focusing on public employees.
Gather documentation
- Document the disparity: Keep records of your pay, job title, duties, performance evaluations and any communication about compensation.
- Compare pay for your area: Use tools like Glassdoor, PayScale or the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to benchmark salaries for your role and location.
Speak with your employer
- Request a pay review: Approach HR or your manager to discuss your concerns. Be prepared with your evidence and comparison data.
- Read up on workplace policies: Review your employee handbook for policies on pay and grievances.
If necessary, seek legal advice
- Contact an attorney: A labor or employment attorney in Texas can provide advice on pursuing legal action if discrimination is evident.
- Utilize free legal aid: Organizations like Texas RioGrande Legal Aid or Equal Justice Center may offer free or low-cost assistance.
File a complaint
- U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): You can file a claim within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Visit the EEOC website or contact the Dallas or Houston field offices.
- Texas Workforce Commission (TWC): File a discrimination complaint through the TWC's website.
Education and certification for Texas pharm techs
To work as a pharmacy technician in Texas, you need to meet the following educational and certification requirements:
- Earning a high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement.
- While not always mandatory, completing a pharmacy technician education program is highly recommended. Programs are offered through community colleges, vocational schools and online colleges and universities.
- Choose an accredited program as they ensure you receive training in key areas like pharmacy law, medication preparation and customer service. Look for programs accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
- Texas requires pharmacy technicians to hold a certification. You can obtain certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. To qualify for the PTCB exam, you must complete an accredited program or have equivalent work experience.
- All pharmacy technicians must register with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy. Requirements include being 18 years of age, submitting your application and paying a fee and passing a background check.
- To maintain your certification, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years in Texas. At least one hour must cover Texas pharmacy law.
Cost of living considerations
The cost of living in Texas is lower than the national average, with RentCafe listing the state specifically at 7% lower than the national average. Housing, transportation, food and healthcare all are lower and only utilities are slightly higher than the national average (3% higher). Salaries for pharmacy technicians in Texas reflect these higher living costs, especially in metro areas such as Austin, Midlands, Waco and Dallas, but it's still critical to weigh all options when you decide to work in the state.
Here are average costs of living for some of the Texas cities the BLS lists as paying pharmacy techs the highest salaries:
| Texas city | Cost of living % |
|---|---|
| Dallas | 2% higher than the national average |
| Houston | 6% lower than the national average |
| Austin | 1% lower than the national average |
| Fort Worth | 4% lower than the national average |
| Midland | 4% lower than the national average |
Texas professional associations for pharm techs
There are several professional groups and organizations specific to pharmacy technicians in Texas that can provide networking, continuing education, advocacy, resources and career development opportunities:
Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA)
TPA represents all pharmacy professionals in Texas, including pharmacy technicians. It offers professional development, legislative advocacy and continuing education opportunities.
Texas Society of Health System Pharmacists (TSHP)
TSHP focuses on pharmacy professionals working in health systems and hospitals. It has a specific section for pharmacy technicians and provides opportunities to participate in advocacy for hospital pharmacy technicians.
National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
A national organization supporting pharmacy technicians all over the U.S. including Texas. It focuses on networking, advocacy and professional development.
Texas Federation of Drug Stores (TFDS)
While primarily aimed at supporting community pharmacies, TFDS also offers resources for pharmacy technicians, such as networking opportunities in the retail pharmacy space and insights into retail pharmacy practices and legislative updates.
This pharmacy technician salary guide for Texas aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding becoming a pharmacy tech and the profession within the state. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Written and reported by:
PharmTechs.org Staff
Published: December 1, 2024