Working as an emergency medical technician (EMT) can provide a comfortable wage, making it an honorable profession that one can live on. In California, EMTs are paid an average of around $45,000 per year. The state ranks fourth for EMT salaries. Some EMTs may be paid more or less, with the variations depending on factors like location, skill level, and experience.
EMT Salary in California: Key Figures
| Salary Level | Amount (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Average EMT Salary | $45,000 | California ranks 4th nationally for EMT pay |
| Entry-Level EMTs | $39,000 | Typical starting salary |
| Highest-Paid EMTs | $62,000+ | Top earners in the state |
| Highest-Paying Cities | Soledad: $62,415 San Mateo County: $60,573 Wasco: $57,540 |
Salaries vary by region |
The Cost of Becoming an EMT
Becoming an EMT in California requires some investment. To be a certified first responder, you must first complete an approved EMT training program from a provider recognized by the state. These courses will typically set you back between $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the program and school.
After finishing your program, you must then pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam–which is easier with California EMT test prep resources like the Video Vault from The Paramedic Coach (costing only $147 for lifetime access).
Only after passing your EMT training and the NREMT exam can you get certified as an EMT in California. Certification costs between $120 to $200 (a $75 state fee plus a county fee) depending on where you are.
How long does California EMT certification last? It’s only valid for two years, after which you’ll need to renew your certification, which will require you to take continuing education courses.
Working as an EMT in California
After obtaining certification, you can now begin working as an EMT in the state. How long are EMT shifts in California? The working hours for an EMT typically range between eight, ten, twelve, and twenty-four hours.
Regardless of how long you work, you’ll generally have to perform the following duties on the job:
- Respond to emergency calls
- Provide basic first-aid treatment as needed
- Assess patient conditions and administer proper medical care
- Stabilize individuals in distress
- Provide life-saving medical interventions, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Determine where to transport a patient for continuing care
- Work with other first responders, emergency medical staff, and hospital personnel
- Report patient observations to appropriate medical professionals
- Document medical care given to patients
Average EMT Salaries in California
The average EMT salary in California is about $45,000 a year. Entry-level positions sit at about $39,000 annually, while the highest-paid EMTs can earn upwards of $62,000 a year.
Factors That Affect EMT Salaries in California
Salaries of EMTs vary depending on various considerations.
Location
Some places in California pay more than others. Here’s a list of the areas in California where EMTs are paid the most per year:
- Soledad: $62,415
- San Mateo County: $60,573
- Wasco: $57,540
- Mill Valley: $55,981
- Scotts Valley: $55,902
- Carmel Valley: $54,434
- Foster City: $53,996
- Clyde: $53,095
- Santa Cruz County: $53,078
- Santa Clara: $52,303
Level of Certification
EMTs progress through different certification levels: basic EMT, advanced EMT (AEMT) and paramedic. The higher you go, the more you’ll likely earn.
Education, Training, and Experience
EMTs with more education, additional training, and experience can expect to get paid more on the job. This is why continuing education and practical courses are encouraged.
Employer Type and Setting
Hospitals, government offices, private organizations, and other EMT employers will pay differently. It’s best to consider who you’re working for when applying for jobs as the setting of the work can impact how much you take home.
Shift Differentials and Overtime
EMTs working in non-traditional shifts and taking overtime hours will earn more compared to those reporting to the regular nine-to-five. If you’re wanting to earn a bit more each month, you may want to consider putting in some extra hours.
Become an EMT in California with The Paramedic Coach
The Paramedic Coach is dedicated to helping hopeful EMTs get certified and existing emergency medical services (EMS) professionals keep their foundations solid. The Video Vault provides you with videos, practice questions, worksheets, audio files, and more to build your EMS knowledge and prepare you for the NREMT and other related exams. Get lifetime access for only $147 today!
