How Much Do Dietetic Technicians Make?
Dietetic technicians in the United States earn an average annual salary of $38,440, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 24,000 professionals employed in this role nationwide, dietetic technology continues to be an important part of the health care industry.
These nutrition experts play a vital role in promoting health and wellness through proper diet and nutrition. Dietetic technicians work alongside registered dietitians to create meal plans, educate patients about healthy eating habits, and assist in managing food service operations in various settings. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of dietetic technology, exploring how salaries and job opportunities differ across regions. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the health care field, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in nutrition or looking to advance their current position in dietetics.
Highest Paying States for Dietetic Technicians
Dietetic technicians in the United States can find varying salary opportunities depending on the state they work in. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following states offer the highest average annual salaries for this occupation:
- Oregon leads the list with an average annual salary of $51,090 and an hourly mean wage of $24.56, despite employing a relatively small number of dietetic technicians at 80.
- Washington closely follows with an annual mean salary of $51,050 and an hourly wage of $24.54, employing 140 professionals in this field.
- Colorado offers an average annual salary of $48,040 and an hourly mean of $23.10, with 180 dietetic technicians employed.
Other states with competitive salaries include:
- New York, with an average annual salary of $47,710 and a significant employment figure of 1,310 dietetic technicians.
- Minnesota, offering $46,770 annually with 130 employed in the field.
- California, providing an average salary of $44,900 and employing the largest number of dietetic technicians at 5,100.
These states not only offer higher wages but also present varying employment opportunities, indicating a robust demand for dietetic technicians in these regions.
Comparing Salaries of Health Care Technicians
When examining the salaries of various health care technicians, there are notable differences. Psychiatric technicians earn an average annual salary of $43,650, which translates to an hourly wage of about $20.99. In comparison, dietetic technicians have a lower average annual salary of $38,440, or roughly $18.48 per hour. Pharmacy technicians earn slightly less than psychiatric technicians, with an average annual salary of $43,330 and an hourly wage of $20.83.
In terms of employment numbers, pharmacy technicians are the most common, with 460,280 people employed in this role. Psychiatric technicians have a significantly smaller workforce, with 115,940 employed, while dietetic technicians have the least, with only 24,240 employed. This data highlights variations not only in earnings but also in the number of people working in each of these health care technician roles.
Bottom Line
Dietetic technicians are essential contributors to the health care industry, with a focus on promoting health and wellness through nutritional guidance and meal planning. As of BLS recent data, these professionals earn an average annual salary of $38,440, which is slightly lower than other health care technician roles like psychiatric and pharmacy technicians. However, the demand for dietetic technicians is evident, with over 24,000 employed across the nation.
For those considering a career as a dietetic technician, here are some key takeaways:
Ultimately, dietetic technicians play a crucial role in health care, and their contributions are instrumental in fostering healthier communities through nutrition education and support.