Walmart Pharmacy pay increase: How much will employees earn now? Who is eligible?

US retail giant Walmart increased the salaries of thousands of employees in its Pharmacy department and promoted them to higher positions.

In a press release, Walmart said 3,000 pharmacy technician positions were promoted to operations team leadership positions. This increased their wages from $28 per hour to $22 per hour.

“To support these associates and the important role they play in the health and wellness of customers across the country, we are expanding our investment in our local pharmacy teams by creating new leadership roles and increasing hourly earning potential for thousands of our associates,” Walmart said in the press release.

How much were the salaries increased?

In its announcement, Walmart said that the hourly wages of 3,000 technicians who were appointed to team leadership positions were increased from $22 to $28.

Those earning $28 per hour will have the potential to earn up to $42 per hour. Moreover, employees have the chance to earn bonuses depending on their location.

The company also said pharmacy technicians, who currently earn an average of $22 an hour, will be eligible to be paid up to $40.50 an hour.

Team leaders will help oversee daily pharmacy operations and support pharmacy managers and pharmacists, with the potential to earn $42 per hour, excluding bonuses, depending on location, Walmart said.

Why is Walmart Pharmacy increasing wages?

Walmart’s move to raise its employees’ wages comes as the company aims to increase staffing at 4,600 locations and strengthen local pharmacy teams. This comes at a time when the company is increasing digital offerings such as Better Care Services, access to Eli Lilly’s LillyDirect program, and expanded pharmacy delivery.

“These changes support our plans to grow pharmacy teams this year and help customers continue to receive reliable, high-quality care close to home,” he said.

The investment is about more than just compensation, the company said.

“They aim to strengthen the care experience in communities across the country while creating clear, long-term career paths for employees. Pharmacy technicians are a critical part of the healthcare journey by supporting patients, coordinating care and helping pharmacies run smoothly,” the company said.

Who is eligible?

According to Walmart, anyone can apply for these positions.

It was stated that a university degree is not required to become a pharmacy sales associate, technician or operations team leader.

Walmart pays its employees to become certified pharmacy technicians, and more than 22,000 employees have completed the certification since 2016.

Pharmacy associates also enjoy Walmart benefits like low-cost, high-quality health insurance, 401(k) plans with a 6% company match, paid time off, including parental leave, and shared discounts on most items in stores.