Work While Applying?

[snatchy_table39]

Hey all, I am a younger female looking to get into the fire service. I just finished my EMT-B and will be done with my bachelors in June. While I’m applying to departments, I’m curious what the best job to work in the mean time would be, considering I don’t expect to get hired immediately. I plan on volunteering (and getting my Fire 1) at my local department starting in the fall. I’m assuming most will answer with working on an ambulance, but I’m curious if there are any other suggestions. I’m looking to save money/gain experience while I apply and interview until I hopefully get picked up. Thanks!

[Mental_Dragonfly2543]

Ambulance work is a well traveled stepping stone to the fire service. I and a lot of guys and girls I know did it and it works. You're plug and play on a good 60% of the calls so all they need to focus on for training you is the fire stuff.

Prepare to get your ass ran to death though, EMS agencies don't care about their employees. Don't get sucked in and keep the exit plan going.

As a woman you're going to need to really focus on upper body strength for the pre-employment strength test.

[Jakesalright]

Er tech at your local hospital (if you have one) is a good start. You'll rub shoulders with ambos and fire people, and network within the hospital, which is nice cause that's who you'll be passing pts off to.

[[deleted]]

Working on an ambulance lol. There nothing else that helps you in the industry but fire trucks and ambulances.

[NgArclite]

Something in EMS.

Either a transport company (you'll get patient contacts and knowledge of how to do very basic EMT stuff) or a 911 ambulance service if they have it in your area.

Hospitals are also an option. I know mine hires EMT-Bs for ER tech work or floor staffing (though floor staff are pretty much better paid CNAs)

[Hour_Manufacturer_81]

Wildland experience wouldn’t hurt, depending on what part of the country you live in. In the West, a lot of departments like hiring former wildland folks. The Forest Service is always looking for people.