*Multiple Career Paths in the Fire Service for Medics
Most of the Fire Departments (FDs)in the greater Sacramento County region require certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or as a Paramedic. EMTs use a lot of the skills that you may have used if you were a combat medic during deployments or even when you were stationed at home.
If you have served in the Army or the Air Force as a combat medic, then you may have obtained certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians at the EMT level or higher. This can make for an easier transition; however, you will still need to be certified in your state.
If you don’t have this National Registry and/or State certification as an EMT or Paramedic, you can complete the training at a technical or community college. The Cosumnes River College and the American River College offer programs from six months to two years long depending on your circumstances.
Why Hire a Veteran?
Even without a military medical background, FDs in the Sacramento County area are motivated to hire honorably discharged Veterans. The journey may be long and will require the EMT or Paramedic certifications and training as with any other firefighter candidate.
The teamwork, discipline, and experience that Veterans bring to the table are qualities sought after by FDs for a stable and effective firefighting operation. As a result, most FDs in the greater Sacramento County region, offer Veterans bonus points in the competitive hiring process.