Are you searching for How Many Jobs Are Available In Major Pharmaceuticals with their respective salaries?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
The pharmaceutical industry is a growing field with thousands of job opportunities worldwide. In the U.S. alone, major pharmaceutical companies offer over 300,000 jobs, ranging from research and development to marketing and sales.
Positions are available for individuals with various skills and education levels, including scientists, engineers, and administrative staff.
As demand for medications increases, so do career opportunities in this highly rewarding and innovative industry.
Grab a chilled glass of water as I walk you through How Many Jobs Are Available In Major Pharmaceuticals, Best Paying Jobs in Pharmaceuticals with their respective salaries.
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What Are Major Pharmaceuticals?
Major pharmaceuticals are companies in the pharmaceutical industry that produce health supplies to ensure the healthcare system operates smoothly.
They manufacture, market, and distribute medications to treat infections and diseases.
These companies also focus on research and development of medical devices to improve patient care. The industry includes both public and private pharmacy companies.
How Many Jobs Are Available in Major Pharmaceuticals?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that major pharmaceuticals employ about 323,500 individuals.
The sector is expected to add 7,700 pharmacist jobs by the end of the decade, although overall employment growth is projected at 2%.
Additionally, there are 447,300 pharmacy technicians in the industry, who dispense and distribute medications.
The BLS predicts a 5% growth for pharmacy technician roles from 2021 to 2031, with approximately 43,000 job openings anticipated during this period.
Is Major Pharmaceuticals a Good Career Path?
The Statistics
- If you’re looking for a career that offers both job security and a lifelong adventure, pharmaceuticals could be an excellent choice.
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing sectors have a strong job outlook, making it a stable and promising career path.
13 Best Paying Jobs Available in Major Pharmaceuticals
This list organizes jobs within pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and development, and distribution, sales, and marketing.
1. Clinical Research Scientist
National Average Salary: $137,719 per year
Primary Duties:
- Design and implement clinical trial procedures.
- Review scientific data to improve pharmaceutical products.
- Report and present findings to senior staff and confirm lab data accuracy.
2. Validation Manager
National Average Salary: $117,202 per year
Primary Duties:
- Coordinate and validate machinery and process operations in production.
- Ensure compliance with manufacturing practices and product safety.
- Document procedures and final testing activities.
3. Manufacturing Engineer
National Average Salary: $84,454 per year
Primary Duties:
- Design, improve, and maintain pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.
- Scale up production during high demand and ensure sterile processing requirements.
- Optimize operations for staff and patient safety.
4. Biomedical Engineer
National Average Salary: $86,755 per year
Primary Duties:
- Develop or improve drug formulations.
- Design artificial organs and diagnostic tools using genetic and tissue engineering.
- Provide technical support and ensure safety compliance within facilities.
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5. Sales Manager
National Average Salary: $81,041 per year
Primary Duties:
- Monitor competitors to improve marketing strategies.
- Analyze sales data to identify growth opportunities.
- Collaborate with marketing staff to enhance brand loyalty.
6. Epidemiologist
National Average Salary: $68,837 per year
Primary Duties:
- Study disease causes, effects, and spread to support drug development.
- Research trends to assess medication impact.
- Collect data to improve public health outcomes.
7. Medical Science Liaison
National Average Salary: $67,822 per year
Primary Duties:
- Engage with key opinion leaders to address product inquiries.
- Facilitate communication between marketing and R&D teams.
- Provide insights for improved marketing strategies.
8. Quality Control Analyst
National Average Salary: $65,432 per year
Primary Duties:
- Monitor production processes to ensure product quality.
- Train new analysts and oversee testing procedures.
- Quickly resolve potential quality issues.
9. Microbiologist
National Average Salary: $63,211 per year
Primary Duties:
- Conduct laboratory analyses and quality assurance tests.
- Monitor microbial populations during drug development.
- Assist in clinical trials using standardized processes.
10. Production Supervisor
National Average Salary: $65,861 per year
Primary Duties:
- Develop strategies for safe and efficient operations.
- Assign duties and prepare schedules for production teams.
- Monitor output and report on performance metrics.
11. Marketing Executive
National Average Salary: $50,777 per year
Primary Duties:
- Design and execute marketing campaigns.
- Increase client retention and product awareness.
- Leverage digital and conventional marketing techniques.
12. Maintenance Technician
National Average Salary: $49,794 per year
Primary Duties:
- Inspect and maintain facility equipment like pumps, plumbing systems, and centrifuges.
- Monitor alarms and ensure spare parts are readily available.
13. Packaging Operator
National Average Salary: $41,807 per year
Primary Duties:
- Operate and maintain packaging equipment.
- Fill and label pharmaceutical products.
- Record inventory and ensure proper storage of packaged goods.
This organized structure provides a clear overview of pharmaceutical industry opportunities, ranked from highest to lowest salary.
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What Do Pharmaceutical Jobs Pay?
- Average Pay: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing was $74,560 in 2024.
- This is significantly higher than the average yearly salary for all occupations in the U.S., which was $58,260.
- Salary Variations: Pay in the pharmaceutical industry varies widely depending on the position:
- Pharmacy Technicians: Earned an average annual salary of $35,250 (May 2024).
- Compliance Officers: Earned an average annual salary of $82,510.
Entry-Level Careers in Major Pharmaceuticals
Many entry-level roles in the pharmaceutical industry are junior versions of advanced positions. Examples include:
- Junior Sales Representative
- Junior Account Manager
- R&D Associate
- Associate Chemist
- Lab Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician
- Associate Scientist
- Supply Chain Associate
- Junior Financial Analyst
Key Insight:
- According to Leal, most entry-level roles are in sales, which serves as a strong foundation for career growth.
- From sales, you can advance into roles in marketing, training, field reimbursement, market research, or sales operations.
CONCLUSION
The pharmaceutical industry offers diverse career opportunities in areas like manufacturing, research and development, and sales and marketing, with roles ranging from entry-level to advanced positions.
Salaries vary widely, from $35,250 for pharmacy technicians to over $137,000 for clinical research scientists.
With a strong job outlook and competitive pay, the industry provides promising career paths for those with the right skills and qualifications.
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