How to Become a Paramedic in New York
Paramedics are New York's highest-trained emergency medical responders, providing advanced life support in critical situations. Becoming a paramedic requires completing advanced medical training, earning national certification, and securing state certification through the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).
This guide details the updated requirements for training, certification, salary, and career opportunities. The annual mean wage for paramedics in New York is $69,010, and with a projected 5% job growth nationwide between 2024 and 2034, now is an excellent time to start your journey.
Paramedic Salary and Job Outlook in New York
According to May 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage for paramedics in New York is $69,010 ($33.18 per hour).
Earnings vary based on employer, experience, and location.
- FDNY Paramedics: Base pay can exceed $95,000 after five years of service, not including overtime or other differentials.
- Flight Paramedics: The average salary for flight paramedics in New York is reported to be $123,847 per year.
The job outlook is exceptionally strong. The BLS projects a 5% increase in paramedic employment between 2024 and 2034, faster than the other vocations.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Paramedic
Becoming a paramedic opens up a wide range of career paths and opportunities. Here are some of the career options you can explore after becoming a paramedic:
-
Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Many paramedics work in the field of EMS, responding to emergency calls and providing pre-hospital care to patients. EMS agencies can be found in both urban and rural areas, and paramedics may work for public or private organizations.
-
Fire Departments: Paramedics often work for fire departments, providing emergency medical care alongside firefighters. In many fire departments, paramedics are cross-trained as firefighters and respond to both medical and fire emergencies.
-
Hospitals: Some paramedics choose to work in hospitals, providing emergency care in the emergency department or working as part of a critical care transport team. In this setting, paramedics may work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and doctors.
-
Flight Paramedics: Flight paramedics work on medical helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft, providing emergency medical care to patients who need to be transported to specialized medical facilities. This career path requires additional training and certification.
-
Education and Training: Experienced paramedics can pursue careers in education and training, teaching future paramedics or providing continuing education courses for practicing paramedics.
-
Management and Administration: Paramedics with leadership skills and a strong understanding of EMS operations may choose to pursue careers in management or administration. This can involve overseeing EMS agencies, managing budgets, and developing policies and procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a paramedic in NY?
It typically takes 1.5 to 3 years. This includes approximately 150-180 hours for EMT-Basic training followed by 12–24 months for a paramedic program..
What do you need to be a paramedic in New York?
You need a high school diploma or GED, a current New York EMT-B certification, completion of a state-approved paramedic program, a passing score on the NREMT exam, and official certification from the NYSDOH.
Can a foreigner become a paramedic in the U.S.?
Yes. International applicants must hold legal U.S. work authorization, complete an accredited U.S. paramedic program, and pass the NREMT exam to be eligible for state certification.
How much are paramedics paid in New York?
Paramedics earn an average of $69,010 per year ($33.18 per hour) (BLS, 2024), with higher pay in metropolitan areas such as NYC and Long Island.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a paramedic in New York is a challenging yet deeply fulfilling career path that places you on the front lines of emergency care. With high demand and strong job growth, dedicated training opens the door to a respected profession where you can make a direct impact on people's lives.
If you're ready to start, explore accredited paramedic trainings on Dreambound and begin your journey toward a career that saves lives.
If this article doesn't match what you're looking for, you can check out these other articles:
Justine Tacmo is part of the Growth team at Dreambound. He assists the organization by updating critical information so students receive the most up-to-date information for their desired trade schools. Besides, he has a passion for writing and expresses it through poetry, covering themes of life, love, and mental health, which is also his advocacy.
