What does an emergency medical services supervisor do?

1 Role and duties

An EMS supervisor is a senior-level EMS provider who is responsible for managing the daily activities and performance of EMS crews, vehicles, and equipment. They may work for public or private EMS agencies, hospitals, fire departments, or other organizations that provide emergency medical care. Their duties include planning and assigning EMS operations and responses, supervising and training staff and volunteers, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards, maintaining records and budgets, communicating with other emergency services and health care providers, handling complaints and incidents, developing policies and procedures, participating in quality improvement initiatives, providing direct patient care and transport as needed.

2 Skills and qualifications

To become an EMS supervisor, you need to have extensive experience and education in emergency medical services, as well as strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Generally, you should possess a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license and clean driving record, and a certification or license as an emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic. Additionally, you should have a minimum of three to five years of EMS experience, preferably in a supervisory role. A bachelor's degree or higher in emergency management, health administration, or a related field is preferred but not required. Furthermore, certifications or trainings in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), pediatric advanced life support (PALS), or other relevant areas are beneficial. Lastly, being knowledgeable of EMS laws, regulations, and best practices, as well as having proficiency in using EMS software, equipment, and technology are advantageous for the role.

3 Challenges and rewards

Working as an EMS supervisor can be both challenging and rewarding. You must manage stress, fatigue, and burnout, as well as cope with trauma and loss. Furthermore, you must handle conflicts and complaints, ensure safety and quality, and adapt to changing demands and emergencies. Additionally, you need to stay updated on new developments and innovations. On the other hand, the rewards of being an EMS supervisor include saving lives and making a difference, leading and mentoring a team, improving EMS systems and services, building relationships and partnerships, advancing your career and skills, and enjoying variety and flexibility.

4 Career outlook and salary

The demand for EMS supervisors is expected to grow as the population ages and the need for emergency medical care increases. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of emergency medical technicians and paramedics is projected to grow by 6% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for emergency medical technicians and paramedics was $36,650 in May 2020, while the median annual wage for first-line supervisors of protective service workers, which includes EMS supervisors, was $62,960 in May 2020. However, the salary of an EMS supervisor may vary depending on the location, employer, experience, and education of the individual.

5 How to become an EMS supervisor

Becoming an EMS supervisor requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, obtaining a certification or license as an EMT or paramedic, and gaining experience and skills in EMS, preferably in a supervisory role. A bachelor's degree or higher in emergency management, health administration, or a related field is beneficial but not required. Additionally, obtaining additional certifications or training in ACLS, PALS, or other relevant areas is necessary. Lastly, you should apply for EMS supervisor positions and prepare for the interview process, as well as continue your professional development and education in EMS.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?