Professionals in the pharmaceutical industry typically earn a nice living. In May 2004, production workers or those in non-supervisory positions took home an average of $892 a week. Those in similar manufacturing jobs in other industries took home only $659 a week. Medical scientists, of course, are at the top of the hourly earnings ladder with a median average of $36.92. Obviously, furthering one’s education in this burgeoning field is certainly well worth the time.
Those seeking careers in the industry can certainly expect to have ample opportunities in the long term. Certain diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease, remain, as yet, incurable. Ongoing research into such maladies and the manufacturing of new products to support this research are always going to be needed, which will certainly mean even more employment opportunities. What’s more, the aforementioned diseases are only three of the most common; there are, of course, many, many others.
As the population expands, the demand for pharmaceutical products will increase commensurately. Greater personal income and the increasing health consciousness of the general public are likely to further increase the demand for pharmaceutical products. Even during periods of high unemployment, work is relatively stable in the pharmaceutical field. No matter what the prevailing economic conditions, there will always be a market for over-the-counter and prescription drugs, and the various other products of the pharmaceutical industry.
In short, the industry presents many wonderful and exciting opportunities for individuals seeking stable and meaningful careers.
