According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of paramedics and EMTs is expected to grow by 19 percent through 2016. Opportunities will be best for those who have advanced certifications in emergency medical services.
Employment of emergency medical technicians is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2020. Opportunities will occur as a result of an expansion in emergency and medical services and replacement of those who leave the field. Competition for jobs will be keen in fire, police, and rescue squad departments because of attractive pay and benefits and good job security.
Earnings:
$15,500 to $52,500, nationwide; $15,500 to $34,000, Tyler/East Texas.
Working Conditions:
Emergency medical technicians usually work in teams of two and may be members of a hospital emergency department, intensive or coronary care unit, rescue squad, or volunteer team. EMT’s are supervised by the director of out-patient services, the medical director of emergency services, or a police or fire chief. EMT’s employed by fire departments often have a 51-hour work week with 24 hours on duty and 48 hours off. Those employed by hospitals and police departments usually work 31-42 hours a week and are often on call. Workers in private firms often work a 56-hour week. Sixty-five percent of all EMT’s are volunteers. They may work 8 to 24 hours per week, with varied schedules, and receive no payment for the services they perform. EMT’s often work nights, weekends and holidays to provide services 24 hours a day.