Paramedic

WATAUGA COUNTY is accepting applications for the Position of Paramedic for Watauga County Emergency Medical Services. An employee in this class performs skilled work at the Paramedic level of certification in operating an approved mobile medical unit, rescuing victims and performing advanced emergency care including the administration of life‑sustaining treatment to patients on‑site and while in route to hospital. Employee serves as a member of an ambulance crew and is responsible for the medical care administered to the patient, in accordance with established emergency medical procedures and techniques, but must exercise considerable independent judgment in assessing the condition of patients and applying short‑term relief.

Position serves as medic in charge on calls; as required, directs care and response and provides patient care; as needed, directs work of assigned EMTs and Advanced EMTs; provides training and mentoring of newer employees.
Paramedic level positions perform complex procedures and requirements such as use of paralytic and sedative agents; performing surgical airway procedures; performing manual defibrillation; and performing other specialized procedures. Responsibilities include performing patient assessment and life support techniques in accordance with the approved protocols including airway management and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; treatment of injuries to various parts of the body; assisting in normal and abnormal childbirth;

lifting and moving patients for transfers to medical facilities, extrication of patients from confined areas, and other procedures within county protocols. Additional responsibilities include completion of full patient care documentation during and after calls for service including information for billing documentation, and legal accountability; participation in a continuous training program to maintain certification and improve competence in medical technical work and operation;

familiarization of street and road patterns, and networks of the County in order that future runs may be made with minimum difficulty and delay; inspection and testing of response vehicles and their emergency equipment, maintaining proper inventory of equipment and supplies; cleans and sanitizes equipment daily; ensures that they are in proper and good working order; and assists with direction and control during disaster situations.

Employee is exposed to the normal hazards of emergency rescue work, including risk of exposure to infectious diseases.

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a High School Diploma/GED and ability to provide EMS services at the Paramedic level; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Valid driver’s license for state of residence.

• Certification by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Medical Services as a Paramedic.
• Current CPR certification, or ability to obtain CPR certification.
• ACLS; ITLS or PHTLS; PALS, PEPP, or NRP are preferred.

• Health insurance.
• Retirement.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

Salary $52,748 - $55,385 depending on qualifications, not including scheduled overtime.
24‑Hour shifts; inclusive of nights, weekends and holidays.
Position is Open Until Filled, expected start date January 1, 2026.

Apply at NC Works Career Center, 130 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC 28607, .
Applications may also be obtained augacounty.org (Employment Link) and submitted by mail, email Watauga County, or fax . An active NCWorks account is required, please visit ncworks.gov to create an account or to retrieve username.

Watauga County is an EEOE.