Save and change lives with a career in the ambulance service

An ambulance service career is much more than 'flashing blue lights'! You'll make a difference every day to patients in emergency and non-emergency situations.

You'll have career choices

There are a variety of roles in the ambulance team from paramedic to patient transport. Some jobs need a degree education while others are direct entry so you can apply for a job straightaway. There are also apprenticeship opportunities for many ambulance service roles. 

Whatever your situation or strengths, the ambulance team has the role for you. 

You'll be rewarded

There’s more than one reason why a career in the NHS is rewarding. Not only will you enjoy a competitive salary, you’ll also get a generous pension and exclusive health service discounts too. And to help you enjoy a healthy work/life balance, you’ll work a flexible 37.5 hour week with 27 days holidays a year plus public holidays.

You'll also know that you are making a difference every day.

You'll make progress

You’ll have countless opportunities to progress. You’ll enjoy continuous professional development, helping you to develop your skills, gain new ones, and progress to roles at a higher pay grade.

And with annual reviews and the support of our team, you’ll have career potential that matches your ambitions.

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  • Having healthcare experience is a guaranteed way to make your job or course application stand out and can really give you a head start on your career – especially if it’s relevant to your chosen role.

    There are lots of different ways you can get healthcare experience, including work experience placements, voluntary roles, paid full or part-time work, internships or even caring for a sick or disabled friend or relative.

    There are thousands of organisations that provide healthcare, so you’ve got a lot of choice when it comes to gaining experience. You could consider an NHS or private hospital, clinic or health centre, a charity (like St John Ambulance), or even a residential care home or day care centre. Experience doesn't always need to be with an ambulance service. 

    But it’s not just about healthcare experience. There are plenty of everyday skills that are hugely beneficial, including good communication and organisation skills, problem solving and quick decision making – not to mention a caring and compassionate nature.

  • Getting started will really depend on the role you want to do. To become a paramedic, you will need a degree education. Most paramedics go to university but there are a growing number of degree apprenticeships which combine academic study and practical paid employment. 

    Other roles, such as emergency care assistant and patient transport service driver, do not need a degree education and you can start your career in these roles by applying for a job or an apprenticeship. 

    Find your role in the ambulance service team.

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