Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are the first responders who provide critical, life-saving care at emergency scenes and during transport to medical facilities.
Getting Started
How to Become a Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
At 6 months to get started, this is typical for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Postsecondary Certificate (typically 6 months) at an estimated cost of $5k–$8k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for emergency medical technician (emt) practice.
Begin Working
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) earn a median salary of $39k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Do?
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are the first responders who provide critical, life-saving care at emergency scenes and during transport to medical facilities. Working in ambulances, fire departments, hospitals, and other emergency settings, EMTs assess injuries and illnesses, perform basic life support interventions, and make rapid decisions under pressure. They respond to 911 calls ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening emergencies like cardiac arrest, severe trauma, and respiratory distress.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Make?
At $39k/yr, emergency medical technician (emt) earn less than the $46k/yr average for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers.
$39k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
| Paramedic | $39k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 5.1% growth over the next decade, roughly in line with the 6% average for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers.
10-Year Growth
5.1%
Faster than average
Current Employment
267,400
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate Exposure
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) roles have moderate exposure to AI automation — roughly average among Postsecondary Certificate-level careers. While some administrative tasks may be augmented by AI, core duties still require human expertise. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Performing general physical activities
- +Handling and moving objects
- +Repairing and maintaining mechanical equipment
- +Repairing and maintaining electronic equipment
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
What Could Be Automated
- −Getting information
- −Monitoring processes, materials, or surroundings
- −Processing information
- −Evaluating information to determine compliance with standards
- −Analyzing data or information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
- •Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
- •O*NET OnLine
- •College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12