Becoming a Paramedic

A Paramedic can be a hard and challenging career while at the same time be incredibly rewarding. Paramedics are employed in the medical industry, many by the Ambulance Service operating in the local state.

Paramedics are required to be caring, often detached, dedicated, highly skilled, quick thinking and qualified. Paramedics must be qualified with either a Bachelor of Health Service (Para-medicine) or equivalent via a Nursing or Emergency Health degree. Courses are offered in most states of Australia.

Paramedics must also pass a fitness/health check, have a drivers licence and a police record check. Career opportunities for a qualified paramedic include moving into hospitals as a nurse or junior Nurse, an instructor role, MICA paramedic or a team manager. All career opportunities require a high level of experience and in some cases further professional training.

As a result of the level of education, skill and on job training required to be a paramedic their salary can range between $70K – $82K. Paramedics usually work shift work, rather than 9 till 5 and may be required to work 7 consecutive days followed by 3-4 days off. Re-accreditation of Paramedics is usually annual.

Start your career as a Paramedic with more information here.