EMS jobs

[Buck268]

For those in the know, how much would having a suspension on my license hurt my chance of finding a decent job as an EMT-B (and this time next year, hopefully a paramedic)? Got my basic license, and right now working on 'medic but with zero luck finding a job as basic. Recently found out I have a suspension on my record and although its been reinstated I fear that may be causing trouble since pretty much everybody runs a driving history check.

And further, how much harder do you think it will be going out there as a totally green medic as opposed to having that year or so worth of experience as a basic?

 

[EMT_Lee]

For those in the know, how much would having a suspension on my license hurt my chance of finding a decent job as an EMT-B (and this time next year, hopefully a paramedic)? Got my basic license, and right now working on 'medic but with zero luck finding a job as basic. Recently found out I have a suspension on my record and although its been reinstated I fear that may be causing trouble since pretty much everybody runs a driving history check.

And further, how much harder do you think it will be going out there as a totally green medic as opposed to having that year or so worth of experience as a basic?

To be honest with you, the blemish on your record is probably hurting you. In this day and age, lots of people are looking for new career fields, and EMS is a pretty steady bet. We've had lots of applicants in my county, and the local Con-Ed classes always seems to be full of upcoming EMT's. If you're applying for an state/county position, maybe you should try going for a private ambulance company. In some cases, they can hire you, but restrict you from using company vehicles, which lowers their insurance rates. It's worth a shot, and scheduled transport will give you a good feel if it's something you're serious about moving forward with. EMT-P is a long step from Basic, and it takes a much more serious time commitment.

To answer your other question, I would say 'yes'. I think it is helpful to spend some time as a Basic getting your feet wet. Most programs agree, and you are required clinical hours during your Basic studies. Also, in many instances it is easier to be hired/promoted based on your experience when you start applying for ALS positions. You will already have a set of (hopefully) positive references in the EMS field, along with experience outside a teaching enviroment, which helps at the ALS level.

 

[JNieporte]

Maintain your EMT-B status and hone your BLS skills before you even think about taking the EMT-I course or ALS classes. Our city "recommends" that you stay as an EMT-B and not try to advance until you have one year of going on runs. Not clinical hours or running with a squad of volunteers, but an active "job" as a pre-hospital caretaker. Like EMT Lee said, a private ambulance would probably be your best bet.

Here, there are so many Firefighter / EMTs waiting for a job that it's unbearable. There just aren't enough ambulances or pumpers / engines to fit the bodies in. Yet all of these well-qualified people are being turned away and having to go elsewhere to make money. I guess what I'm trying to say is, make sure there's an opening.

Good luck in this career :thumbup: There will be some good days and there will be some horrible days; just take care of your patient and yourself. Remember the rule they tell you from day one in the back of the ambulance: No glove, no love.