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Entry Level Paramedic Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Paramedic or EMS Certification OR * Two (2) or more years of college OR * U.S. Military Service ... Must pass Firefighter Entry Level test. A study guide is available at www.publicsafetycompass.com

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Entry Level Paramedic information

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$13

$23

$34

How much do entry level paramedic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level paramedic in Tennessee is $23.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level paramedic?

Entry level paramedics are healthcare professionals who have recently completed their paramedic training and are beginning their careers in emergency medical services. They provide advanced pre-hospital care, including assessing patient conditions, performing life-saving interventions, and safely transporting patients to medical facilities. Entry level paramedics work under protocols and guidance from medical directors, and may collaborate with other emergency responders such as EMTs, firefighters, and police officers. Their responsibilities focus on delivering critical care in urgent situations while gaining experience in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level paramedic, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Paramedic, you need a solid understanding of emergency medical procedures, patient assessment, and life support techniques, generally backed by completion of an accredited paramedic program and state certification. Familiarity with ambulance equipment, cardiac monitors, and electronic patient care reporting systems is typically required. Strong communication, emotional resilience, and teamwork are essential soft skills for interacting with patients and collaborating with other first responders. These skills and qualities ensure effective emergency response, patient safety, and the ability to perform under high-pressure situations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level paramedics during their first year on the job?

Entry level paramedics often encounter challenges such as adapting to high-pressure situations, managing emotional stress from emergency calls, and gaining confidence in their clinical decision-making skills. Working long shifts, adjusting to irregular hours, and collaborating effectively with more experienced team members can also be demanding. However, most agencies provide mentorship and ongoing training to help new paramedics build resilience and competence as they gain experience in the field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Paramedic vs Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)?

AspectEntry Level ParamedicEmergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Required CertificationsParamedic license, advanced certificationsEMT certification, basic life support
Work EnvironmentAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenesAmbulances, public safety settings
Employer & Industry UsageAmbulance services, hospitals, EMS agenciesAmbulance services, fire departments, EMS agencies

Entry Level Paramedics have advanced training and certifications compared to EMTs, allowing them to perform more complex medical procedures. EMTs provide basic emergency care and support. Both roles operate in similar environments but differ in scope of practice and responsibilities.

How easy is it to get hired as an entry level paramedic?

Getting hired as an entry-level paramedic can be competitive, as many employers seek candidates with EMT certification, some experience, and strong clinical skills. Job availability depends on regional demand, healthcare needs, and the candidate's certification and training level.

How to get started as an entry level paramedic?

To start as an entry-level paramedic, you need to complete a state-approved paramedic training program and obtain certification, such as the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification. Additionally, you should acquire basic EMT certification, gain experience in emergency medical services, and meet any state-specific licensing requirements. Strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and familiarity with medical equipment are also important for success in this role.

Is 25 too late to become an entry level paramedic?

Entry level paramedics can start their careers at age 25 or older, as there is no maximum age limit for entry into the profession. Candidates typically need to complete EMT training, obtain certification, and meet physical and background requirements, which are accessible to adults of various ages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paramedic jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Paramedic jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Paramedic job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,766 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

LifeFlight Ground AEMT PRN - Nashville

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Vanderbilt University Medical Center rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 254 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Flight Paramedic

Independently works off assessment skills to activate patient care protocols to deliver patient care within his/her full scope of practice as defined by the state of Tennessee and LifeFlight's scope of practice. Maintains compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. Safety transport patients utilizing Vanderbilt and Unit specific safety, policy and procedure and accreditation standards. Maintains equipment per regulatory and compliance standards. Responsible for effective communication to ensure safe and quality patient care with team, transport and handover.

Shifts: Variable (12) hour shifts to include some night, weekend and holidays

Fulltime: 36 hrs. with overtime available. Shift differentials apply to nights and weekends.

Qualification: Flight Paramedic:

  • Minimum of 3 years of recent experience as a paramedic
  • Current Certified Flight Paramedic (FP-C)
  • Ability to obtain a paramedic license with Critical Care Endorsement valid in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama (Paramedics with previous critical care transport experience may obtain the Tennessee Critical Care endorsement within 12 months of hire)
  • Basic Life Support (BLS)
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
  • Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) with an advanced skills lab and advanced lecture components
  • Current United States Passport

Vanderbilt LifeFlight is part of Vanderbilt University Medical Center and is a comprehensive emergency medical services provider, including air and ground ambulance transport, Event Medicine coverage, and Emergency Communications. By air or ground, Vanderbilt LifeFlight will transport a patient to any medically appropriate hospital. Our crews have access to the region's only Level I Trauma Center, Burn Center and Children's Hospital, all at Vanderbilt. LifeFlight is a key part of a trauma system that includes pre-hospital care, definitive care, rehabilitation and injury prevention. We are nationally recognized for quality and safety.

Core Accountabilities:

  • * Organizational Impact: Performs tasks that are typically routine that may impact team's performance with occasional guidance.
  • * Problem Solving/ Complexity of work: Utilizes some discretion and research to solve routine problems.
  • * Breadth of Knowledge: Applies knowledge of standards, established processes and procedure that apply to your own job.
  • * Team Interaction: Provides guidance to entry level co-workers.

Core Capabilities :

  • Supporting Colleagues : Develops Self and Others: Continuously improves own skills by identifying development opportunities.
  • Builds and Maintains Relationships: Seeks to understand colleagues' priorities, working styles and develops relationships across areas.
  • Communicates Effectively: Openly shares information with others and communicates in a clear and courteous manner.
  • Delivering Excellent Services: Serves Others with Compassion: Invests time to understand the problems, needs of others and how to provide excellent service.
  • Solves Complex Problems: Seeks to understand issues, solves routine problems, and raises proper concerns in a timely manner.
  • Offers Meaningful Advice and Support: Listens carefully to understand the issues and provides accurate information and support.
  • Ensuring High Quality: Performs Excellent Work: Checks work quality before delivery and asks relevant questions to meet quality standards.
  • Fulfills Safety and Regulatory Requirements: Demonstrates basic knowledge of conditions that affect safety and reports unsafe conditions to the appropriate person or department.
  • Managing Resources Effectively : Demonstrates Accountability: Takes responsibility for completing assigned activities and thinks beyond standard approaches to provide high-quality work/service.
  • Stewards Organizational Resources: Displays understanding of how personal actions will impact departmental resources.
  • Makes Data Driven Decisions: Uses accurate information and good decision making to consistently achieve results on time and without error.
  • Fosters Innovation : Generates New Ideas: Willingly proposes/accepts ideas or initiatives that will impact day-to-day operations by offering suggestions to enhance them.
  • Applies Technology: Absorbs new technology quickly; understands when to utilize the appropriate tools and procedures to ensure proper course of action.
  • Adapts to Change: Embraces changes by keeping an open mind to changing plans and incorporates change instructions into own area of work.

Position Qualifications:

Responsibilities:

Certifications:

LIC-Driver's License - Tennessee, LIC-Emergency Medical Technician Advanced - Licensure-Others

Work Experience:

Relevant Work Experience

Experience Level :

Less than 1 year

Education:

High School Diploma or GED (Required)

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Vanderbilt Health, supported by a comprehensive benefits package which may include health, disability, retirement and/or wellness offerings to enhance your well-being and professional growth.

Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.


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