BENTONVILLE Ark. — For most Americans, the health care professionals they see most are part of their local pharmacy team. In nearly 4,600 locations across the country, our pharmacy associates support customers at every stage of their care journey, from answering questions and managing immunizations to helping people stay on track with their health over time.
To help support these associates and the essential role they play in customers’ health and wellness nationwide, Walmart is expanding their investment in their local pharmacy teams by creating new leadership roles and increasing hourly earning potential for thousands of associates:
- Walmart has elevated 3,000 roles to pharmacy operations team lead positions with higher pay – an average of $28 an hour and the potential to earn up to $42 an hour plus bonus potential, depending on location. These team leads help oversee daily pharmacy operations and support pharmacy managers and pharmacists, allowing them to spend more time focused on patient care.
- The retailer is also continuing their investments in pharmacy technicians, who now earn an average of $22 an hour. Pay ranges for pharmacy technicians will expand to as much as $40.50 an hour, depending on location and certification.
- These changes support the chain's plans to grow pharmacy teams this year and help customers continue to receive reliable, high-quality care close to home.
- These investments are about more than compensation. They are about strengthening the care experience in communities across the country while creating clear, long-term career pathways for associates. Pharmacy technicians are a critical part of the healthcare journey, supporting patients, coordinating care, and helping keep pharmacies running smoothly. The new operations team lead role creates opportunities for technicians to step into leadership, build new skills, and take on greater responsibility while continuing to serve their communities.
And these opportunities are available to everyone. No college degree is required to become a pharmacy sales associate, technician or operations team lead, and Walmart pays for associates to become certified pharmacy technicians. Since 2016, more than 22,000 associates have completed their certification, opening the door to leadership roles and broader career growth. Pharmacy associates also receive access to Walmart benefits like low-cost, high-quality medical coverage, 401(k) plans with 6% company match, paid time off including parental leave, an associate discount on most items in stores, and much more.
“This investment is really about supporting the pharmacy teams who show up for their communities every day,” said Kevin Host, senior vice president of pharmacy at Walmart. “We want care to feel simple and close to home. Our pharmacists and technicians make that possible. They’re the reason customers can count on us as a trusted, one-stop destination for wellness.”
For associates like Leisha Gonzalez, a newly promoted pharmacy operations team lead in Callaway, Fla., these opportunities represent both personal and professional growth. After starting as a cashier 10 years ago, Leisha moved into pharmacy, completed her technician certification with Walmart’s support, and now leads a team of seven.
“My hard work has paid off, and I am grateful for the opportunities,” Gonzalez said. “The company has helped me build confidence, develop leadership skills, and better serve our patients.”
Walmart continues to expand its health and wellness footprint through new offerings such as Better Care Services, access to LillyDirect and Pharmacy Delivery
By increasing pay, elevating thousands of leadership roles and removing barriers to entry and advancement, we are strengthening pharmacy teams while helping associates build meaningful careers and support healthier communities every day.
