Fresh off the Beaten Path: EMT/Paramedic Jobs

Published on 2008-08-18

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and paramedics (the highest level of EMTs) are recognizable figures due to their frequent appearances in movies and television shows, as well as in real life. Their quick responses, grace under pressure, and talent for assisting injured people make them vital public servants.

EMT: What Exactly Is It?

Once dispatched by a 911 operator, EMTs rush to the scene of an emergency and provide on-the-spot healthcare in situations such as car accidents, child births, heart attacks, shootings, natural disasters, and other crises. What makes these medical jobs atypical is that EMTs have limited resources and time, perhaps much less than physicians, with which to treat injuries. EMTs may have to safely transport people to hospitals, where their duties become similar to those of physician assistant jobs in that they work with the hospital's doctors and staff to communicate the patient's status and provide additional treatment. Afterwards, EMTs might have to replace supplies that were used or decontaminate the ambulance.

Personality Profile: Are EMT Jobs Right for Me?

If you work best in non-stressful, regimented conditions a consistent number of hours per week, EMT healthcare jobs probably aren't for you. In fact, it might be said that this type of work is the very antithesis of the quiet, regular office job. EMTs and paramedics must be able to adapt to varying physical conditions, including loud noises and inclement weather. The job is extremely physical; EMTs must be able to bend, lift, walk, kneel, and carry heavy loads with ease. Aside from the physical requirements, EMTs on a daily basis face the danger of disease and bodily harm from patients. This is truly a life-and-death occupation, and it is one best performed by people who can handle irregular hours, stress, and adrenaline-inducing challenges. Like most medical careers, EMT jobs call for a desire to help people, emotional stability, attention to detail, and good communication and analytical skills.

Education, Training, and Experience: How Do I Become an EMT?

While a high school diploma is usually the highest formal educational requirement, EMTs must complete rigorous training programs before they can pursue job openings. Three progressive levels represent advancing levels of training. At the EMT-Basic level, students learn how to perform patient assessments; provide respiratory, cardiac, and trauma care; use emergency equipment; and tend to fractures, bleeding, childbirth, and other emergencies. Training may take place in an emergency room or ambulance.

Training requirements for the EMT-Intermediate level vary by state but can require anywhere from 30 to 350 hours of training, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). At this level, students learn about medications, intravenous fluids, and airway devices.

To earn the EMT-Paramedic designation, students must complete classroom and field work to become proficient in advanced medical areas such as anatomy and physiology, a process which can take one to two years. Advancing through the EMT levels requires a passing grade on examinations administered by either the state or the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. In all 50 states, certification is required to work as an EMT, although the individual requirements for Chicago medical jobs may be different than those for San Diego medical jobs, for example. Ongoing training is also required. In addition to basic certification, EMTs can elect to receive specialty certifications such as Wilderness Paramedic or Flight Paramedic.

EMTs: Where Do They Work?

EMTs may find work opportunities with hospitals, fire departments, police departments, and private ambulance services. Because emergencies occur at all hours, the work schedule can be erratic, and EMTs can be on call for long periods of time. Most EMTs employed by fire departments work on average 50 hours per week, the BLS reports. Those who work for private ambulance services work 45 to 50 hours per week, and those EMTs with hospital jobs can work anywhere from 45 to 60 hours per week.

The Future of EMT Jobs

The BLS reports that employment of EMTs should grow 19% between 2006 and 2016. This change is classified as "faster than average" for all occupations. While the number of EMT volunteer jobs will shrink due to the large investment required to attain certification, the number of paid jobs should grow. In rural and smaller metropolitan areas, part time jobs will also be available to EMTs.

Under the "Healthcare" section of Fresho.com, you can find EMT employment opportunities in your area. Browse the job classifieds by specifying your desired title and location or by setting a Fresh Alert to receive email updates. Fresho.com also offers free resume and free job postings. Take the first step towards an exciting career as an EMT when you use Fresho.com!