Pharmacy Technician Salary, Job Outlook & Career Insights

Austin Pharmacy Technician Salary

Discover salary expectations, job growth trends, and career opportunities for pharmacy technicians in Austin, Texas.
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As the capital of Texas, Austin has gained a reputation not only for its vibrant tech sector and live music scene but also for its expanding healthcare landscape. With the metropolitan area’s population now exceeding 2 million, the demand for healthcare professionals—including pharmacy technicians—continues to climb. This growing need translates into steady job prospects and ample opportunities for professional growth.

So, how much do pharmacy technicians earn in Austin, Texas?

Pharmacy technicians in Austin earn on average $22.01 per hour, which translates to approximately $45,780 per year for full-time positions.

Pharmacy Technician Salaries in Austin, Texas

If you’re considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Austin, you’ll be pleased to know that wages are competitive. The median hourly rate stands at approximately $22.01, which translates to around $45,780 per year for those working full-time. Of course, pay ranges vary based on your training, certification, and years of experience.
  • Entry-Level (Pharmacy Technician Trainee)
    • Typically earn $17–$19 per hour, depending on the workplace.
    • Work under a pharmacy technician trainee license while gaining practical experience and preparing for PTCB certification.
  • Mid-Range (Fully Licensed and Certified)
    • Earn a median wage of $22.01 per hour.
    • These technicians are fully licensed and certified.
  • Experienced or Senior-Level Pharmacy Technicians
    • Earn $23–$27 per hour (or higher), based on experience and expertise.
    • Typically fully licensed and certified with several years of experience.
    • They often work in leadership roles as lead pharmacy technicians or specialize in areas like sterile compounding, specialty pharmacy, or hospital settings.
With training, certification, and experience, pharmacy technicians in Austin can boost their earning potential and advance into higher-paying roles within the field. 

Salary Distribution in the Austin Area

Below is a snapshot of hourly and annual earnings for pharmacy technicians across different percentiles in Austin:

Hourly wage by percentile

  • 10th percentile average: $17.95
  • 25th percentile average: $18.23
  • 50th percentile average: $22.01
  • 75th percentile average: $23.26
  • 90th percentile average: $27.16

Annual wage by percentile

  • 10th percentile average: $37,330
  • 25th percentile average: $37,920
  • 50th percentile average: $45,780
  • 75th percentile average: $48,390
  • 90th percentile average: $56,490

Where Pharmacy Technicians Work in Austin

Austin’s broad range of employers ensures a wealth of options for pharmacy technicians. You’ll find opportunities in community settings—such as independent pharmacies and large chains like Walgreens, CVS, H-E-B, or Walmart—as well as positions in hospitals and healthcare networks. Some of the largest healthcare systems in the area include:
  • St. David’s HealthCare
    A regional powerhouse with multiple hospitals that rely on pharmacy technicians in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
  • Ascension Seton
    A major hospital network offering diverse pharmacy roles in specialized units.
  • Baylor Scott & White Health
    Known for its large network of clinics and hospitals, providing numerous positions for pharmacy techs.
Pharmacy technicians looking to explore alternative career paths can find opportunities in long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, and government or military healthcare settings.

Additionally, working as a pharmacy technician can be a valuable stepping stone to other healthcare professions. The practical experience gained in this role provide a strong foundation for those aspiring to become pharmacists, nurses, or even physicians, making it an excellent starting point for a long-term career in healthcare.
Taking the First Step

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Austin

A career as a pharmacy technician is both meaningful and fulfilling, giving you the opportunity to make a positive impact by helping patients improve their health every day.

Beyond making a difference, pharmacy technicians enjoy competitive pay, strong job security, and excellent opportunities for career growth.

Here’s how you can take the first steps toward starting your rewarding healthcare career in Austin:

Step 1: Understand Texas Licensing Requirements

The first step toward becoming a pharmacy technician in Austin is understanding the state licensing requirements. In Texas, all pharmacy technicians must obtain a license from the Texas Board of Pharmacy. To receive your license, you'll have to pass a criminal background check, meet education requirements, and earn a pharmacy technician certification.

For a step-by-step guide to help you through the licensing process, visit our Texas Pharmacy Technician Licensing Guide.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Training Program

Once you’re ready to begin your pharmacy technician training, the next step is enrolling in an approved program. Our PTCB-recognized online pharmacy technician course provides Austin residents with an affordable, flexible way to fulfill Texas licensing requirements and thoroughly prepares you for success on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

If you’d prefer to explore additional training options, you can browse our curated list of pharmacy technician classes in Austin.

Step 3: Obtain Certification and Licensure

After successfully completing your training program, the final step is to earn your official pharmacy technician certification by passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), administered by the PTCB.

Once certified, you can apply for your pharmacy technician license through the Texas Board of Pharmacy. Being fully licensed and certified positions you for better employment opportunities in Austin, allowing you to earn higher starting wages, benefit from increased job stability, and access greater career advancement opportunities.

How Pharmacy Technician Academy Can Help

Pharmacy Technician Academy is committed to helping you earn your certification and excel in your career as a pharmacy technician. Our 1st Pass CPhT Course is recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and is specifically designed to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

By completing our 1st Pass CPhT Course, you’ll meet the PTCB’s eligibility requirements—even if you have no prior pharmacy experience. The curriculum covers all essential PTCE topics, including medication fundamentals, pharmacy law, patient safety, and more, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to pass on your first try.

At Pharmacy Technician Academy, our goal is to support aspiring pharmacy technicians by providing all the resources needed to achieve certification and thrive in this rewarding profession.

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