Psychiatric Technician Salary Guide 2024

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Our career guides are produced by staff writers in conjunction with our expert career coaches.

The average annual salary of a psychiatric technician in the US is $34,000 which is approximately $16.27 per hour. Salary levels will vary considerably depending on factors such as location, experience, and level of education.

Which states pay the highest salaries for psychiatric technicians?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the top five highest-paying states for psychiatric technicians in the United States were:

  1. California – average salary of $51,980 per year
  2. Connecticut – average salary of $50,740 per year
  3. Alaska – average salary of $48,990 per year
  4. Massachusetts – average salary of $47,930 per year
  5. New Jersey – average salary of $47,780 per year
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Which states pay the least on average for psychiatric technicians?

Here are 5 states with the lowest average salaries for psychiatric technicians

  1. Oklahoma – average salary of $26,090 per year
  2. Mississippi – average salary of $27,060 per year
  3. Arkansas – average salary of $27,770 per year
  4. West Virginia – average salary of $28,250 per year
  5. Alabama – average salary of $28,370 per year

It is worth noting that all of the lowest paying states (excluding Arkansas) have no licensing requirements for psychiatric technicians so it is likely this lower salary level reflects the lower barrier to entry into the position.

How do I earn more as a psychiatric technician?

There are several ways to increase your earning potential as a psychiatric technician in the United States:

  1. Obtain additional certifications or education: Obtaining additional certifications or education can demonstrate your commitment to your profession and increase your knowledge and skills, which can lead to higher pay. For example, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as psychology or nursing, or obtaining a certification as a psychiatric mental health technician can increase your earning potential.
  2. Gain experience: As you gain more experience as a psychiatric technician, you can become more valuable to your employer, which can lead to higher pay. Consider seeking out opportunities to work in specialized areas or take on leadership roles to gain additional experience.
  3. Work in high-demand areas: Working in areas with a high demand for psychiatric technicians, such as urban areas or regions with high rates of mental illness, can lead to higher pay due to increased competition for qualified workers.
  4. Negotiate your salary: When starting a new job or seeking a raise, be prepared to negotiate your salary based on your qualifications, experience, and other factors. Researching salary data for your location and field can help you make a persuasive case for a higher salary.
  5. Work for higher-paying employers: Some employers may offer higher salaries for psychiatric technicians based on their reputation, size, or location. Consider researching and applying to higher-paying employers in your area or field.