Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by Michael Tijani
Starting a career in the healthcare industry can be both exciting and overwhelming, given the wide range of opportunities available. Hospitals, as the primary healthcare providers in our communities, offer an array of entry-level positions that can serve as excellent stepping stones for aspiring professionals. In this blog post, we will explore the best starter jobs at a hospital, providing a detailed overview of each role, including the job outlook and average earnings. Whether you’re a recent graduate or looking to transition into the healthcare field, this guide will help you decide on the most suitable entry-level job.
Best Starter Jobs at a Hospital
Below is a list of the top starter jobs at a hospital.
1. Medical Administrative Assistant
Overview: Medical Administrative Assistants play a crucial role in the efficient functioning of hospitals. They handle managerial tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, taking phone calls, and coordinating with medical staff. These professionals are the face of the hospital and ensure that patient’s needs are met promptly and professionally.
Job Outlook: The demand for Medical Administrative Assistants is expected to grow steadily in the coming years owing to the rapidly aging population and expanding healthcare services. This entry-level position can be an excellent starting point for those interested in healthcare administration or management roles.
Average Earnings: The average annual salary for Medical Administrative Assistants is around $35,000 to $40,000, but this can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the hospital.
2. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Overview: Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) provide basic patient care under registered nurses’ (RNs) supervision. Their responsibilities include aiding patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, feeding, and monitoring vital signs. CNAs play an essential role in providing patients comfort and safety during their hospital stay.
Job Outlook: The demand for CNAs is projected to grow rapidly as the aging population requires more medical care and assistance. Hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities actively recruit CNAs to meet this increasing demand.
Average Earnings: The average annual salary for CNAs ranges from $25,000 to $35,000. This may vary depending on the location, work setting, and years of experience.
3. Phlebotomist
Overview: Phlebotomists are responsible for evaluating the patient’s health before dialysis and drawing blood from patients for medical testing, transfusions, or donation.
Job Outlook: The job outlook for phlebotomists is positive, with continued demand for experienced professionals in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and blood donation centers. Advancements in medical technology are expected to increase the need for phlebotomists.
Average Earnings: Phlebotomists earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, but this can vary depending on various factors, including experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
4. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Overview: Medical Billing and Coding Specialists are responsible for translating medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into universal codes for insurance billing and record-keeping purposes. They ensure that healthcare providers receive proper reimbursement for their services and maintain accurate patient records.
Job Outlook: The demand for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists is expected to grow as healthcare facilities seek to improve efficiency and accuracy in billing processes. Additionally, an aging population requires more healthcare services, leading to an increased need for billing and coding professionals.
Average Earnings: Medical Billing and Coding Specialists can earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $50,000, but this can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the work involved.
5. Patient Care Technician (PCT)
Overview: Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) work closely with nurses and doctors to provide immediate patient care. They assist with tasks such as taking vital signs, monitoring patients’ conditions, helping with mobility, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
Job Outlook: The demand for PCTs is expected to grow rapidly due to an aging population and an increasing focus on patient-centered care. Hospitals and other healthcare settings often require the assistance of skilled PCTs to enhance patient outcomes.
Average Earnings: The average annual salary for PCTs ranges from $30,000 to $40,000, but this can vary depending on factors like expertise, location, and the specific healthcare facility.
6. Surgical Technologist
Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, assist surgical teams during operations. They prepare the operating room, sterilize equipment, and assist surgeons and nurses during procedures. Their role is crucial in ensuring a safe and efficient surgical environment.
Job Outlook: The demand for surgical technologists is projected to increase by 9% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS.
Average Earnings: As of 2021, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was around $49,710, with potential variations based on experience and location.
7. Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians support pharmacists in dispensing medications to patients and healthcare professionals. Their duties include measuring medication quantities, labeling prescriptions, managing inventory, and ensuring the accuracy of medication orders. They play a vital role in patient safety and effective medication management.
Job Outlook: The demand for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow at a faster rate of 12% from 2020 to 2030, attributed to the aging population’s increased need for medication.
Average Earnings: As of 2021, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was around $34,610, with potential variations based on experience and the pharmacy setting.
Conclusion
Starting a career at a hospital can open up a world of opportunities in the healthcare industry. The positions mentioned above serve as excellent entry points, allowing individuals to gain valuable experience and lay the foundation for future growth. The job outlook for these roles is promising, with rising demand for healthcare services as the population continues to age. Aspiring professionals should consider their interests, skills, and long-term career goals to choose the best starter job at a hospital that aligns with their aspirations and values.
Remember, regardless of the role, each position in a hospital contributes to the greater goal of providing quality healthcare to patients in need. Whether you choose to start as a Medical Administrative Assistant, CNA, Phlebotomist, Medical Billing, and Coding Specialist, or Patient Care Technician, you will be an essential part of the healthcare team, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives while building a rewarding career for yourself.
