Walmart is increasing its investment in healthcare by enhancing pay, leadership opportunities, and career paths for thousands of pharmacy associates nationwide. The company has elevated 3,000 positions to new pharmacy operations team lead roles, paying an average of $28 an hour, with potential to earn up to $42 an hour. The new roles aim to support daily pharmacy operations, allowing licensed professionals to focus on patient care.

Walmart is also expanding pay ranges for pharmacy technicians, who currently earn an average of $22 an hour. Under the updated structure, technicians can earn up to $40.50 an hour based on location and certification levels. The retailer emphasized the critical role pharmacy teams play in healthcare access for Americans, assisting customers with medication questions, immunizations, and long-term health needs.

In addition to pay increases, Walmart is creating long-term career pathways for pharmacy technicians without requiring a college degree. Associates can progress to sales associates, technicians, or operations team leads, with the company covering the cost of certification. Since 2016, over 22,000 Walmart associates have completed pharmacy technician certification, gaining access to medical coverage, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and in-store discounts.

The compensation changes align with Walmart’s plans to expand pharmacy teams this year. The company views the initiative as part of a broader effort to create career pathways, particularly for pharmacy technicians. The new team lead role offers a clear path to leadership without a college degree, emphasizing the role of technicians in patient coordination and pharmacy operations.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Walmart Boosts Pharmacy Technician Pay As Health Push Accelerates