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EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)

EMTs are first on the scene in emergencies, providing urgent care and getting patients to the hospital. It's a fast entry into emergency medicine and a stepping stone to paramedic or nursing.

Median Salary
$44,470/yr
Typical Range
$34,130 – $62,500
Job Outlook
Much faster than average

What does a EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) do?

  • Respond to 911 calls and assess patients
  • Provide basic life support and first aid
  • Transport patients safely by ambulance
  • Document care and hand off to hospital staff

Education & training

High school diploma plus an EMT course (a few months)

How to become a EMT (Emergency Medical Technician)

  1. Finish high school
  2. Complete a state-approved EMT-Basic course
  3. Pass the NREMT certification exam
  4. Apply with ambulance services and fire departments

Skills that help

Calm under pressureQuick thinkingCommunicationPhysical stamina

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National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer, and experience.

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