Athletic trainers are an integral part of the sports and health industry. They play a crucial role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses in athletes. These professionals work in a variety of settings, including schools, colleges, professional sports teams, and healthcare facilities. But how much does an athletic trainer make? Let’s delve into the details of the athletic trainer salary in the United States.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for athletic trainers was $49,860 in May 2020. This means that half of the trainers earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,300, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $75,400.
However, these figures can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the trainer’s level of experience, the state they work in, and the industry in which they are employed. For instance, athletic trainers working in the professional, scientific, and technical services industry tend to earn more than those working in educational services.
Geographically, the state of Texas boasts the highest employment level for this occupation, followed by Pennsylvania and New York. However, the District of Columbia, Connecticut, and New Jersey offer the highest mean annual wages for athletic trainers, with the District of Columbia leading at $69,690.
Experience also plays a crucial role in determining an athletic trainer’s salary. Entry-level athletic trainers with less than one year of experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (including tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $39,305. An early career athletic trainer with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $41,437. A mid-career athletic trainer with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $46,978. An experienced athletic trainer with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $51,205. In their late career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of $59,598.
It’s worth noting that athletic trainers often work full time and may work evenings or weekends, and may also travel for sporting events. This can add to the overall compensation package, with overtime and travel allowances potentially increasing the overall earnings.
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Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about athletic trainer salaries.
FAQs:
1. What is the job outlook for athletic trainers?
According to the BLS, employment of athletic trainers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As people become more aware of sports-related injuries at a young age, demand for athletic trainers is expected to increase.
2. How can an athletic trainer increase their salary?
Athletic trainers can potentially increase their salaries by gaining more experience, obtaining advanced certifications, specializing in a particular area, or moving to a state or industry that pays higher wages.
3. What education is required to become an athletic trainer?
Most athletic trainers need a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from an accredited college or university, although some may have a master’s or Doctoral degree. They must also pass a comprehensive exam before they can be certified and licensed to practice.
4. What skills are required for an athletic trainer?
Athletic trainers need to have strong interpersonal skills, as they are often working with athletes who may be in pain or under stress. They also need to have good decision-making skills, as they often need to make split-second decisions that could affect an athlete’s health or ability to play.
In conclusion, while the salary of an athletic trainer can vary based on a variety of factors, the demand for these professionals is on the rise. With the right education, experience, and skills, athletic trainers can enjoy a rewarding career both personally and financially.
