Dental lab technicians are important support staff who work in a variety of dental industries. They complete training programs to prepare them for careers in this ever-growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for professionals in this field will increase approximately 14 percent over the next decade. Individuals entering this field have excellent job prospects and will enjoy very good job security for the foreseeable future.
How Much Does Dental Lab Technician Make?
The dental lab technician salary range can vary widely depending on the industry in which the tech works and the geographic area in which they are employed. The Bureau of Labor statistics offers data regarding the average salaries of professionals in this field nationwide. Keep in mind that the below figures are not specific to geographic area. Individuals who work in a rural areas or those areas with a low cost of living are likely to earn slightly lower wages. Those professionals who work in metropolitan areas or areas with a higher cost of living are likely to earn slightly higher wages.
In general, dental lab technician wages are very competitive in all dental industries. Those professionals who choose to work in the offices of private dentists or in medical supply companies make approximately $37,000 per year. These individuals may enjoy some schedule flexibility and can often pursue further training in the dental field while working in these positions. Employment in these areas counts for the majority of dental lab technician jobs nationwide.
Some highly qualified technicians work for the federal government. These individuals earn an excellent dental lab technician income, with average yearly earnings of $54,000. Many professionals in the field aspire to these positions. However, only experienced dental lab techs with an excellent track record will be able to secure these jobs. A small number of dental lab techs work for commercial wholesale companies. These individuals earn an average of $41,000 per year. These jobs are scarce, but may be ideal for those professionals who wish to combine their dental training with a career in sales.
A very small percentage of dental lab technicians are employed by colleges and universities, primarily those with dentistry teaching programs. These individuals earn approximately $43,000 per year. They may enjoy excellent benefits programs. Positions in colleges and universities are ideal for professionals who have a passion for teaching in this field, but do not wish to actively practice in labs or private offices.