Walmart boosting pay for pharmacy techs, elevates roles
Walmart is increasing its investment in its pharmacy teams by creating new leadership roles and increasing hourly earning potential for thousands of employees.
The retail giant has elevated 3,000 roles to pharmacy operations team lead positions with higher pay — an average of $28 an hour and the potential to earn up to $42 an hour plus bonus potential, depending on location. The team leads help oversee daily pharmacy operations and support pharmacy managers and pharmacists, allowing them to spend more time focused on patient care.
The new operations team lead role creates opportunities for technicians to step into leadership, build new skills, and take on greater responsibility while continuing to serve their communities.
In addition, pay ranges for Walmart’s pharmacy technicians will increase to as much as $40.50 an hour, depending on location and certification. The techs currently earn an average of $22 an hour.
“These changes support our plans to grow pharmacy teams this year and help customers continue to receive reliable, high-quality care close to home,” Walmart said.
Pharmacy technicians are a critical part of the healthcare journey, supporting patients, coordinating care, and helping keep pharmacies running smoothly. The new operations team lead role creates opportunities for technicians to step into leadership, build new skills, and take on greater responsibility while continuing to serve their communities.
The company noted that no college degree is required to become a pharmacy sales associate, technician or operations team lead, and that it pays for associates to become certified pharmacy technicians. Since 2016, more than 22,000 employees have completed their certification, opening the door to leadership roles and broader career growth.
Pharmacy associates also receive access to Walmart benefits like low-cost, high-quality medical coverage, 401(k) plans with 6% company match, paid time off including parental leave, an associate discount on most items in stores, and much more.
“This investment is really about supporting the pharmacy teams who show up for their communities every day,” said Kevin Host, senior VP of pharmacy at Walmart. “We want care to feel simple and close to home. Our pharmacists and technicians make that possible."
