Anyone interested in becoming a phlebotomist will naturally want to know about the earning potential in this field. While there is no fixed wage for phlebotomists, as salaries depend on a variety of factors, it’s important to explore these factors to understand what you might earn. So let’s break down the key aspects that affect the phlebotomist’s salary, including experience, location, and work setting. If you’re just starting towards your phlebotomy career, read on to learn how you can maximize your earning potential!
Median Salary of a Phlebotomist
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median wage for a phlebotomist is $38,530 per year, or about $18.53 per hour. This is a median figure, meaning half of all phlebotomists earn more than this amount, while the other half earn less. The top 10% of earners in the field can make upwards of $50,000 a year, which shows that there is room for growth in this career. However, your actual salary can vary based on several important factors such as experience, location, and the type of healthcare setting you work in.（Indeed.com）
Factors Affecting Phlebotomist Salary
Phlebotomist salaries are influenced by multiple factors. Let’s explore each of these factors to give you a better understanding of the salary range you might expect.
1. Experience
One of the biggest factors that determine how much a phlebotomist makes is their level of experience. For entry-level phlebotomists, the salary can range from $28,000 to $35,000 per year. As with any career, gaining more experience leads to better pay. According to data from Indeed.com, phlebotomists with 10 years of experience can make over $55,000 per year or approximately $21 to $24 per hour.
This data illustrates that phlebotomy is a career with promising upward mobility. By investing time in building experience and skills, phlebotomists can significantly increase their earnings over the years. Therefore, if you’re just starting out, keep in mind that your salary potential will grow as you gain more experience in the field.
2. Where You Live
Your geographical location also plays a major role in determining your salary as a phlebotomist. In the United States, median wages vary greatly depending on the state or city in which you work. For example, the BLS reports that the median annual wage for phlebotomists in California is around $50,470, while in Louisiana, the median annual wage is much lower at $33,210.
Before you consider relocating for a potentially higher salary, it’s essential to take into account factors such as the cost of living in that area. While California offers higher salaries, it also has a higher cost of living compared to many other states. Balancing these factors is important when deciding where to pursue your phlebotomy career.
3. Type of Healthcare Setting
Phlebotomists can be employed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, blood donor centers, and doctors’ offices. Your salary may differ depending on the setting you choose to work in. According to national data, phlebotomists working in medical and diagnostic laboratories have a median wage of around $42,220 per year, while those working in doctors’ offices typically earn around $38,030 per year.
Apart from salary, there are other considerations when choosing where to work, such as the number of available job opportunities, career growth potential, benefits (like 401(k) plans), working hours, and shift workloads. It’s important to weigh these factors alongside salary when selecting the right healthcare setting for your career.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings as an Entry-Level Phlebotomist
If you’re an entry-level phlebotomist, you might initially earn less than the average wage. However, there are ways to stand out and command a higher salary early in your career. Here are some tips to help you boost your earnings:
1. Obtain a University Certificate
In healthcare, where you receive your training matters. A university certificate for phlebotomy training builds trust in your skills and abilities. Employers are more likely to offer a competitive salary if they see that you have completed a recognized training program from a reputable institution.
2. Become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician
Holding a national certification, such as the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), can significantly enhance your job prospects and salary potential. More and more healthcare facilities encourage their phlebotomists to obtain certification, as it demonstrates a higher level of competence and commitment to the profession. Walking into a job interview as a certified phlebotomist will make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing a well-paying job.
3. Gain Clinical Experience
Having hands-on clinical experience in performing blood draws can go a long way in helping you secure a higher-paying job. The best way to gain this experience is through an externship during your training program. By completing an externship, you show employers that you have practical experience and are job-ready, even if you are new to the field.
Conclusion
The salary of a phlebotomist can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of healthcare setting in which they work. While the median salary for phlebotomists is around $38,530 per year, there is potential for growth, especially for those who gain experience, obtain certification, and choose the right work setting. By investing in proper training, certification, and clinical experience, entry-level phlebotomists can set themselves apart and command higher wages.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward starting towards your phlebotomy career, consider taking advantage of online phlebotomy programs. With the right guidance and preparation, you can position yourself for success and potentially earn a lucrative salary as a phlebotomist.
