The Wake County EMS Apprenticeship Program is for EMTs beginning in the summer after their high school graduation. Our program enables them to work with us and complete their associate's degree in EMS at no cost. Once they complete the apprenticeship program, participants in good standing may continue their EMS careers with us.
Eligibility
The apprenticeship program is for North Carolina certified EMTs who are able to begin the program within 120 days of high school graduation. Candidates may apply for the program prior to EMT certification as long as they take the state EMT test prior to the start of the program.
Program Structure
This is a paid program that begins with an academy, which is held Monday-Friday at our education center in Raleigh. After the academy, apprentice EMTs begin working on-duty EMS shifts. They are also enrolled in a paramedic course through an area community college with all fees waived. Once they complete their paramedic certification, they will continue with field training at the paramedic level until they're ready to sit for their Wake County EMS System medical clearance exam. Being medically cleared marks the end of the apprenticeship program, but apprentices in good standing are eligible to continue their employment as fully functioning paramedics with Wake County EMS.
How Do I Apply?
Candidates who meet the above eligibility requirements can apply for an apprenticeship position through the Wake County online hiring process. Candidates should search for and apply to the "EMS Apprentice" position. Qualified candidates may be contacted and scheduled for an assessment center. Learn about the hiring process here.
Interested But Don't Meet The Requirements?
Wake County EMS also partners with Wake Technical Community College to hire apprentices through the WakeWorks® Apprenticeship Program. Review their site to see if that pathway is the right one for you to enter into an EMS career with us.
Working Toward A Bachelor's Degree?
After completing the apprenticeship program, employees may submit for a flex schedule and use Wake County's tuition reimbursement benefit to further their education by working toward a bachelor's degree.
Attend an Information Session
Apprenticeship information sessions take place at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Emergency Services Education Center, 221 S. Rogers Lane, Suite 160, in Raleigh.
Want To Know More
Video Overview of Apprenticeship Program
Contact:
Jake Hardison
919-605-4845
jake.hardison@wake.gov