Job Information
Cascade Ambulance Service Inc EMT Apprentice (Wheelchair Van Driver / CST Division) Various Shifts in Bellingham, Washington
EMT Apprentice (Wheelchair Van Driver / CST Division)
Summary
The EMT Apprentice is a unique, part-time "bridge" role designed for individuals pursuing a career in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This position begins in our CST (Cascade Specialized Transport) division, our dedicated in-house medical transport branch.
As a CST specialist, you are responsible for the Medical Transport of patients who require specialized mobility assistance. This role serves as a professional foundation: you will master patient transfer, safety protocols, and logistics before advancing into clinical emergency medicine.
The Career Path (Phased Approach)
Phase 1: Operational Foundation (Months 0--6)
Status: Medical Transport Specialist (CST)
The first six months focus on mastering the logistics of Medical Transport and safety protocols. Completion of this phase with high performance is a prerequisite for company support in the hybrid EMT program.
Phase 2: EMT Internship (Month 6+)
Status: CST Specialist + Student Intern
Upon reaching the six-month milestone, the employee begins a self-paced, hybrid EMT-Basic curriculum. While continuing CST duties, interns participate in "third-ride" rotations with the Ambulance Division to observe Non-Emergent and Emergency BLS protocols. The goal is to obtain WA State EMT certification and promote to the Ambulance Division.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Medical Transport: Complete patient transportation in the CST unit as directed, specializing in wheelchair-accessible transit.
- Communication: Effectively communicate patient conditions to hospital personnel and facility staff.
- Documentation: Complete required documentation of patient care, Medical Transport logs, and billing information accurately.
- Maintenance: Maintain CST unit and equipment cleanliness; report equipment or vehicle problems to the Supervisor immediately.
- Safety: Keep vehicles and work areas free from all safety hazards and ensure 4-point wheelchair securement is performed for every patient.
- Emergency Care: Administer basic life support (CPR/First Aid) when necessary.
- Compliance: Keep all certifications, academic milestones (if in Phase 2), and insurability current.
Qualifications
Required
Age: Must be at least 20 years of age.
Commitment: Must work within the CST division for a minimum of six (6) months prior to beginning the EMT internship phase.
Compliance: Must pass a full driving abstract and a comprehensive background check.
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.