What do I have to do to get this job?

Educational qualification: Formal training is needed to become an EMT. Training is offered at three progressive levels— EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and EMT-paramedic—and fully qualified technicians complete all three programs

Work environment: EMT's work both indoors and outdoors, in all types of weather. Much of their time is spent standing, kneeling, bending, and lifting. They may risk noise- induced hearing loss from ambulance sirens and back injuries from lifting patients. EMT's may be exposed to diseases such as Hepatitis-B and AIDS, as well as violence from drug overdose victims or psychological emergencies. The work is not only physically strenuous, but stressful—not surprising in a job that involves life-or-death situations. Nonetheless, many people find the work exciting and challenging.

EMT's employed by fire departments often have about a 50-hour workweek. Those employed by hospitals frequently work between 45 and 60 hours a week, and those in private ambulance services, between 45 and 50 hours. Some EMT's, especially those in police and fire departments, are on call for extended periods. Because emergency services function 24 hours a day, EMT's have irregular working hours that add to job stress.

What is the future with this job?

Competition for jobs will be keen in fire, police, and rescue squad departments because of attractive pay and benefits and good job security. Opportunities for EMT's are expected to be excellent in hospitals and private ambulance services, where pay and benefits usually are low.

Employment of EMT's is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through the year 2006. Much of this growth will occur as positions change from volunteer to paid positions. Also driving the growth will be an expanding population, particularly in older age groups that are the greatest users of emergency medical services. Additional job openings will occur as more States begin to allow EMT-Paramedics to perform primary care on the scene without transporting the patient to a medical facility.

Many job openings will occur because of this occupation's substantial replacement needs. Turnover is quite high, reflecting this occupation's stressful working conditions, limited advancement potential, and the modest pay and benefits in the private sector.

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