asecrest

Im with what EMTDon said.... must be an Illinois average... I am still searching for a job, but don't expect to make much, hence why I am applying for paramedic school.

I can tell you EMT-B's don't make crap! Maybe $9 or $10/hr average with a per ride bonus, paramedics however make double that. (Chicago at least) Not sure about MO, but when I was in class, the instructor talked about pay scale and I'm sure you can ask him/her for information. Otherwise, call a private ambo company, see what they offer! Eventually you will be doing ride time with them, so you can always ask then too.

I know CFD uses portable lap tops for their run sheets, I see them zipping thru it too. Not sure what the program is though. They seem to like it.

I am from Chicago. Took the National Registry exam and got my results online within 24 hours, my cert in the mail within in 72 hours! My state cert however is supposed to take 1-3 weeks. I started looking for jobs already though. I found that the ones I am applying for online (private ambo's and er's) don't ask for your cert registration # in that process. A couple did say I needed to come to the office to apply with cert in hand so those I obviously have to wait for. Start looking now! I am already in a hiring process for 1 place and don't have my state cert in hand yet... so you never know what you will come across! Good luck!

I plan to apply to paramedic school this spring actually. Sadly, fire house options are out. Even volunteer. I am over the age limit for fire departments in the Chicagoland area. 95% of them require you to be a Firefighter also. My goal is to get on with Chgo Fire Dept as a paramedic, no age limit there and you don't have to be a FF. I do have some friends with connections for private ambo's. I have applied to the them, ER's and am looking for anything in the private sector, so hopefully something will pop up. Thanks guys for the input!

Just got my NREMT and am searching for employment as an EMT-B. Wondering if anyone can give tips on searching for the best job and interviewing. I have done some ride time both private and with Chicago Fire Department but we were not given any tips on interviewing.... thanks all!