Testing and training for Paramedic Trainees

King County Medic One only employs Paramedics. We do not train or hire individuals to work at the EMT level. If you wish to obtain a career at the EMT level, please contact a local Fire Department or private ambulance company.

King County Medic One does NOT operate a Paramedic Training Program. The University of Washington is the sole training provider for all Paramedics in King County.

After a competitive testing process, we contract with qualified individuals to attend the University of Washington Paramedic Training Program. If the candidate is successful in the educational endeavor, they are hired by King County to work as a Paramedic, sent to orientation and placed on a one-year probation under the direction of Field Training Officers.

To be qualified to test with King County Medic One you must hold a current EMT certification and have 3 years of field experience. Field experience must be in the pre-hospital EMS setting (paid or volunteer Fire Department or Ambulance Technician or Military Medic); 12 months of the 3 years must be consecutive with a single agency. Nurse or hospital based EMT experience is not accepted. You must have a high school diploma and a valid driver's license. Competitive candidates will possess excellent reading, math and writing skills. You should be physically fit and able to pass a job-related assessment.

King County Medic One strives to hire individuals that will perform well in the academic setting. Successful candidates must demonstrate spatial reasoning skills, critical thinking skills, and leadership ability. Candidates should be exemplary in teamwork and customer service skills as well. Qualified candidates are given a series of evaluations, which include:

• General Knowledge Test
• EMT Level Test
• Physical Agility Test
• Assessment Center
• Physical Exam
• Criminal Background Check
• Two Oral Boards
• Psychiatric Evaluation Exam

Typically this is done during the Spring to Summer months each year however it is not guaranteed. Testing is only done if there are available positions.

We use a service to initiate the application and written test process for Paramedic Trainees at King County Medic One and is the starting point for interested persons who would like to become a King County Medic One Paramedic. Go to www.publicsafetytesting.com to begin the application and testing process. Further instructions will be given via e-mail once the application process has started. If you have any questions regarding this process, please call 206-205-8735.