HOW DO I BECOME AN EMT OR PARAMEDIC?
You must have your EMT certification before applying at Medic as an EMT, and there are numerous programs around the greater Charlotte area to begin your journey. In general, an EMT program provides students a mix of lecturing, clinical skills and EMS ride time opportunities over the course of a semester-long course. Once you have received your EMT certification, you are eligible to attend a credentialed Paramedic program, which is around 18 months of additional training and an expanded scope of practice (Medic incentivizes our EMTs to complete Paramedic School!). To learn about specific programs near you, please visit the local community college website. We have provided links to local schools in our area; Central Piedmont Community College (Charlotte area), Gaston College (Gaston County), Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (Cabarrus County) and South Piedmont Community College (Union County).
WHAT IS THE HIRING PROCESS FOR PARAMEDICS AND EMTS?
Assessment Centers – Paramedics & EMT must first apply. If accepted, the candidates will be invited to the next available Assessment Center, which is a day-long process to test your knowledge, skills and professionalism. Assessment Centers consist of FISDAP testing (if you are Nationally registered or have taken FISDAP in the last 12 months you are exempt), a trauma scenario, a medical panel interview (questions range from cardiology to pharmacology), a behavioral panel interview, and MEDPAT, a physical agility test based on movements and lifting.
New Hire Academy – If you are chosen to move forward after the Assessment Center, you will be welcomed into our New Hire Academy. Academy runs for 2 weeks for general orientation, a driving course, a clinical refresher and Scope of Practice prep. An additional 7 weeks minimum of field training, a scope of practice and written exam follows before you are released in the field.
HOW DO YOUR SHIFTS WORK?
Care providers and telecommunicators have 40 – hour work weeks, consisting of 10, 13 or 13.5 hour shifts, ranging from 3 days on with 4 off to 4 days on and 3 off (rotating weekends). Our Scheduling Department does an annual shift bid based on both seniority and performance.
IS A PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST REQUIRED AS PART OF THE HIRING PROCESS?
Yes! This video will give you an overview of what to expect!