EMT Jobs Overview
EMTs don't wear capes, but they rescue people every day. When someone has a medical emergency, EMTs are the first to arrive on the scene to stabailize them and take them to the hospital. In addition to their medical knowledge, they also need to be able to reassure and calm the patient, who may be in severe physical and mental distress. And it doesn't take a degree to master these skills. EMT jobs are open to high school graduates who complete one to two years of training.
As part of their day-to-day jobs, EMTs drive emergency medical vehicles, lift and carry sick, injured, and impaired people to the vehicle, and drive them to the hospital. They know how to administer medical treatment like first aid, apply splints, give oxygen, perform CPR, and do other basic life support procedures. During the hospital transport, they communicate with the hospital, so it's ready to receive the patient. There are more than 265,000 EMT jobs in the U.S., and the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that number to grow by 6% over the next decade.
You can start your search on Monster with the broad category of healthcare technology jobs. Then, dig further into searches that have similar job titles:
EMT Training and Skills
Once you have your high school diploma or equivalent and a CPR certification, you can start a postsecondary program in emergency medical technology. You can complete this non-degree program in less than a year to two years, depending on the course of study. EMT classes include how to assess a patient's condition, deal with cardiac emergencies, and use field equipment along with 150 hours of specialized training, including some in a hospital or ambulance. After you've completed the program, you'll need take an exam for either national or state certification. Here is a sample description of an EMT job that will give you more specific information.
Do you have the personality traits that will help you succeed as an EMT? Here's what you'll need:
- Compassion: Along with medical care, a big part of your job is providing emotional support to patients who are in physical or mental distress.
- Interpersonal skills: You have to be able to listen to what the patient is saying and clearly tell them what you need them to do to help them.
- Physical strength: You'll be moving all sizes of people from all kinds of situations.
- Problem-solving skills: Knowing the best way to move a patient and what treatment you need to administer takes quick thinking in high-stress situations.
Update Your EMT Resume
Are you prepared to apply for EMT openings with a shining resume to highlight your education and skills? Don't worry—if you haven't gotten around to it, Monster can help. We have an EMT resume sample you can use as a template. Don't forget that all-important cover letter. Again, we have a cover letter sample just for EMT jobs that can help you get your cover letter into shape.
Interviewing for an EMT Job
If your job search goes well, you'll be invited to interview for an EMT job. If you're like a lot of people, you might be intimidated by interviewing. The secret to a great interview? A little preparation makes it much easier. That's why we've put together articles with some possible interview questions and job interview advice to help you create responses and practice answering questions in advance.
How Much Do EMT Jobs Pay?
We know you're curious about how much can make as an EMT. As you should be! The median pay for an EMT in the U.S. is $20.25 per hour. Employers in your area may pay differently. Check out Monster's Salary Tools to find out what you can expect to make as an EMT in different parts of the country. You'll also discover salaries for related jobs and the potential next steps in your career.
You're Ready to Find an EMT Job; Monster Is Ready to Help
Ready to apply for EMT jobs? What's stopping you? Start looking at the openings on this page. Then, don't forget to create a profile on Monster to get spotted by recruiters. We'll also send you custom job alerts and tips to help you find your ideal job.