Phlebotomist Salary - How Much Can A Phlebotomist Realistically Make?

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Since the global general population is aging, the demand for healthcare workers is increasing at a steady pace.  More and more seniors will need the services of competent medical professionals who can help make their lives comfortable as they age.

Phlebotomists,  who are the ones responsible for obtaining blood samples for analysis, are one of those healthcare workers who are assured of continuous career opportunities in their field.  A US Bureau of Labor study predicts an increase of at least 14% in job openings for phlebotomists for the next ten years.

A phlebotomist salary is determined by factors such as the amount and quality of training received, years of experience in the field and certification.  Future phlebotomists are required to pass the state phlebotomy certification exam before they are hired. 

Fresh graduates and newly certified phlebotomists are on probation for several months and most receive allowances while training.  Those who pass the probationary period may work full time for 40 hours a week or part time for 20-30 hours per week.  A phlebotomist who works in a hospital is often required to work on shifts.

Phlebotomists in the US are put under the category "Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians" by the US Bureau of Labor.  Currently, there are more than 300,000 healthcare workers in this category.  In 2009, phlebotomists can earn from $9.75-$12.50 per hour for entry-level technicians.  Those who have been working in the field for five years usually earn about $11.40-$14.75 per hour.  Those who have ten or more years of experience can earn as much as $16.10 per hour.

Phlebotomist salary can also vary depending on the nature of the employer.  Those who are working for private doctors can earn from $10.50-$14.30 per hour, just a little less than those working in hospitals who can earn as much as $14.60 per hour.  Non-profit working agencies usually pay as much as $15.55 per hour.  States and government institutions usually pay the highest rate, ranging from $11.20-$16.00 per hour.

Even the location of the hiring employer can determine the salary of phlebotomists.  Those who work in Boston are said to be the highest paid technicians, ranging from $13.50-$17.30 per hour.  Average hourly pay for phlebotomists in Chicago can range from $12.50-$15.40 while those working in San Antonio can expect an average of $10.00-$13.20 per hour.

On top of the usual phlebotomist salary, they also enjoy other work benefits such as a healthcare plan that provides premium insurance coverage. Most hospitals offer benefit packages such as paid sick, vacation and holiday leaves.  A retirement plan is usually part of the phlebotomist employment package. 

For career advancement, phlebotomists have to maintain their certified status and they are sometimes required to attend recertification courses.  Most hospitals include payment for these courses as part of their employee package, on top of the usual benefits given to phlebotomists. 

There are also some hospitals that pay for phlebotomy training courses, with the condition that the student serves the hospital for a required number of years after finishing the training program.