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Ambulance Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Ambulance Operator information

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How much do ambulance operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ambulance operator in California is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ambulance operator?

Ambulance Operators are professionals responsible for driving ambulances and ensuring the safe and timely transportation of patients to and from medical facilities. They often work closely with paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), who provide medical care during transit. In addition to driving, Ambulance Operators may assist with basic patient care, maintain the ambulance, and ensure all equipment is functioning properly. They must be skilled drivers, remain calm under pressure, and have a strong understanding of emergency protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ambulance operator?

To thrive as an Ambulance Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of emergency vehicle operation, and often certification in basic life support (BLS) or CPR. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and emergency response protocols is typically required. Strong decision-making, stress management, and communication skills help operators navigate high-pressure situations and interact effectively with medical teams and patients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring timely, safe patient transport and efficient coordination during emergencies.

What are some common challenges ambulance operators face during emergency response, and how can they prepare for them?

Ambulance Operators often encounter unpredictable and high-pressure situations, such as traffic congestion, adverse weather, and navigating unfamiliar areas while ensuring patient safety. Effective preparation includes rigorous training in defensive and emergency driving, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of local routes, and regular coordination with dispatch and medical teams. Building strong communication skills and staying calm under pressure are also essential for managing these challenges and providing timely, safe transportation for patients.

What is the difference between Ambulance Operator vs Emergency Medical Technician?

AspectAmbulance OperatorEmergency Medical Technician
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, Ambulance Driver CertificationEMT Certification (Basic or Advanced)
Work EnvironmentAmbulance driving, patient transportEmergency scenes, patient care, transport
Employer & Industry UsageAmbulance services, hospitalsEMS agencies, hospitals, fire departments

Ambulance Operators primarily focus on driving ambulances and transporting patients, often with minimal medical training. In contrast, Emergency Medical Technicians provide basic emergency medical care at the scene and during transport. Both roles are essential in emergency services, but EMTs have more medical responsibilities and certifications.

Is it hard to become an ambulance operator?

Becoming an ambulance operator typically requires a valid driver's license, completion of emergency vehicle operation training, and often certification such as Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC). The job involves handling stressful situations and working irregular hours, but the entry requirements are generally straightforward for those meeting the prerequisites.

What job categories do people searching Ambulance Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ambulance Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Ambulance Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Ambulance Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Ambulance Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,036 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

AMBULANCE OPERATOR (AT-WILL)

City of Torrance

Torrance, CA • On-site

$21.94 - $24.20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


City Of Torrance rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

626th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

DESCRIPTION WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION. The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to the City of Torrance today.

Join a public safety department that prides itself as an integral part of the Torrance community. Torrance Fire Department (TFD) is dedicated to protecting and providing for life safety, environmental protection, and property conservation through education, hazard reduction, and emergency response. TFD has an ISO Class 1 rating and achieved accreditation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.

Ambulance Operators operate city owned ambulances and provide patient transport services to and from medical emergencies as part of the ambulance transportation team. This position performs appropriate field procedures utilizing EMT-1 level skills such as attaining and documenting vital signs, bandaging, splinting, lifting patients into an ambulance and assisting firefighter/paramedics. The Ambulance Operator is a full-time, non-safety, at-will position in the Torrance Fire Department.

Hours of Work Ambulance Operators may work a fixed 48/96 schedule and average 48 to 56 hours per week. Ambulance Operators who are assigned to peak staffing will work a 40-hour work week. This position requires availability to work irregular hours or shifts, weekends, holidays, or overtime as assigned.

Term of Employment The length of employment for Ambulance Operator is limited to a time period not to exceed twelve (12) months. The Fire Chief is authorized to extend the 12-month period up to four times, for a maximum total service time of five (5) years in the Ambulance Operator position. QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge and skills is qualifying.

A typical way of obtaining the necessary knowledge and abilities is: Equivalent to the completion of high school supplemented by college-level coursework and/or specialized training in fire science. Completion of a State of California Fire Academy is preferred. Experience as a Fire Explorer, Auxiliary Firefighter, and/or Fire Cadet in the Torrance Fire Department is highly desirable.

Licenses and Certifications Possess and maintain a California Class C driver's license and an Ambulance Driver certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Possess and maintain a current Emergency Medical Technician-1 (EMT-1) certificate from Los Angeles County*. Possess and maintain a valid Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate.

*Note: Currently, the County will allow any California accredited EMT to work in Los Angeles. HOW TO APPLY & EXAM PROCESS Interested candidates must submit an online City application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis

After review of the applications received, only those candidates whose training and experience best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process. The examination process for this position will consist of a written test (qualifying) and a panel interview (100%). Written Test: The written test (Ambulance Operator (EMT)) is administered through National Testing Network (NTN).

Scores will only be accepted through NTN and should be submitted around the time of application to be considered for examination. For more information regarding the Ambulance Operator testing process through NTN, go to https://www.nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/. You must pass the written test to be invited to the interview process which will be determined at a later date

SPECIAL NOTES Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about our community. Must be 18 years of age. This position is part of the Torrance Fire Department's "Grow Our Own" program, which provides training for entry into a fire service career

Successful candidates must qualify in a background investigation and medical exam prior to selection. Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources prior to any of the examination processes. The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.

City of Torrance Inclusion Statement The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.

The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!


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