As of March 2025, the average salary for an emergency medical technician (EMT) who has met Washington State EMT certification requirements is approximately $48,000, or $23 per hour.
EMTs are part of first-responder teams who arrive at the scene of emergencies. They are responsible for providing basic life support to stabilize patients who are ill or injured and transporting them to a hospital or other facility under the supervision of a medical doctor or other advanced medical personnel.
They are usually full-time employees and often work more than forty hours per week, including weekends and holidays. Their work can involve stressful and physically demanding life-and-death situations.
Most EMTs are employed by ambulatory healthcare service organizations. Some also work for local governments, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and doctors’ offices.
In Washington State, EMTs must complete a state-approved training program and pass both a hands-on skills assessment and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam. These are mandatory before the EMT can obtain a license from the Washington State Department of Health.
EMTs must also ensure they are complying with EMT continuing education in Washington and renew their license every three years to remain certified.
Variations in Salaries
EMT salaries in The Evergreen State range from $40,200 to $61,200 annually (or $19 and $29 per hour, respectively). There are many reasons for these variations, including years of experience, skill levels, certifications, employment location, and type of employer.
Seattle pays EMTs the most in Washington State, with an average salary of about $48,500. However, higher-paying areas may also have higher costs of living, which could play a part in deciding where to apply for an EMT position.
Because of the higher levels of training and experience, firefighter EMTs average about $67,500 per year (or $32.46 per hour). Paramedic salaries in Washington State are also higher, starting at around $49,600, because they have more advanced training and are licensed to perform more complex emergency medical procedures (e.g., starting IVs and providing advanced airway assistance). Firefighter EMT salaries vary significantly from $32,300 to $113,300, which suggests that there may be more opportunities for advancement on this career path.
Ways to Increase Your Earnings
There are several ways you can boost your salary, including:
Continue Your Education
It is essential for EMTs to stay up-to-date on the latest emergency medical techniques and protocols. In addition, continuing your education and getting more advanced emergency medical certifications (e.g., as an advanced EMT or paramedic) is a proven way to make more money.
As you progress in your career, you may want to consider other advanced roles, such as a certified flight paramedic or a certified critical care paramedic. In the case of a flight paramedic, you must first work as a certified paramedic, complete additional training, and obtain specialized certifications.
Anyone looking to take an NREMT exam should take advantage of the resources offered by The Paramedic Coach. Our platform was developed by an experienced paramedic and provides valuable career insights and tools for acing the exams!
Work Smarter
There is a nationwide shortage of emergency services personnel. If your employer is having trouble finding qualified workers, you may be able to earn some overtime hours. The more you work, the more experience you gain. The better your skills, the greater the chances of securing a position that pays well.
It’s also perfectly reasonable to explore other employment opportunities in your area. Compare what you make with the rates and benefits packages offered by other employers. You could also consider non-traditional EMT positions, such as working for a private business or an outpatient clinic.
If you want to experience different parts of the country, a job as a travel EMT may be a great option. These are roles with temporary contracts in underserved areas that typically pay very well.
Outlook for the Profession
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects overall employment of EMTs and paramedics to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the rate projected for other professions. Much of the need is expected to come from workers transferring to different occupations, retiring, or leaving the labor force. This means that the prospects for career growth for EMTs are looking great!
