Phlebotomist salary ranges don’t vary significantly between employers (hospitals, clinics, independent labs). The big differences come into play between states and regions, and years of experience as a phlebotomist.
Best Paying States
The highest paying states according to the Bureau of Labor are the northern states of Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maryland, New York, and Alaska. However, according to Payscale, the highest wage for phlebotomists is found in California.
California also has the most stringent requirements for phlebotomists. Non-licensed phlebotomists are not allowed to practice in the state, and the education for the position takes more than 8 months.
US Averages
The national average for certified phlebotomy employees is $12.50-$13.00 per hour. This is approximately $27,000 per year. In the states listed as the highest paying this wage is more toward the $15-$16.00 range (about $30,000 per year). The hourly wage is somewhat lower for new grads, or non-certified phlebotomists, but can go much higher for one with years of experience and advanced training.
Certified vs. Non-certified
A hospital trained, but non-certified, phlebotomist can expect to make $8.00 – $10.00 per hour, depending on location. If you are working as a non-certified phlebotomist, you can increase your wages and opportunities if you seek a certification. There are several certifying entities, and a couple take your job experience into consideration.
Any new employer is wary of non-certified phlebotomists simply because of the legal implications. The certification says you are a professional and can handle the complete job description. As a non-certified phlebotomist, the hospital that trained you may have only used you for the simplest of procedures.
Career Growth
There is a good probability that the median phlebotomist salary will increase as demand for this position is expected to zoom upward by a higher percentage (14%) than most other jobs between now and 2018.
There are several ways to increase your marketability and therefore your wages as a phlebotomist:
- Take every opportunity to increase your knowledge in your field
- Become certified if you are not already
- Attend workshops and seminars to learn more advanced techniques and to keep up with changing technology
- Learn to handle difficult patients and be the “go to” tech when someone else can’t handle a job
- Be mobile – keep an open mind to moving to another state for a better position
- Join and maintain memberships in professional organizations
- Be ready to lead a team or fill in for management if the opportunity presents itself
There are some striking variations in phlebotomy salary, but if you understand these variables you can make them work for you as you grow an excellent career.
No related posts.
About Ryan Eisenhower