Emergency medical call-takers (EMCTs) and emergency medical dispatchers (EMDs) with BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) must be able to:

• Solve problems and make decisions in a methodical way
  
• Use sound judgement under pressure
  
• Adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment
• Manage and prioritize multiple tasks
• Take on leadership responsibilities when needed
  
• Support a positive team environment
  
• Build strong working relationships
  
• Work collaboratively to find solutions
• Handle differing opinions professionally
  
• Stay calm and manage emotions in the workplace‎
  

BCEHS accepts ongoing applications for part-time EMCT and EMD positions in the Vancouver Island and Kamloops dispatch centres.

The Lower Mainland dispatch centre accepts applications for full-time positions only.

BCEHS hires both full-time and part-time EMCTs and EMDs, depending on the dispatch centre and available positions.

Part-time employees must be available for at least eight shifts per month. Shifts are typically 12.5 hours long. Hours are not guaranteed.

Full-time employees follow shift schedules outlined in the BC Ambulance Service Collective Agreement.

Most shifts are 12.5 ​hours long.

Common schedules include:

• Two day shifts and two night shifts, followed by six days off
• Two day shifts and two night shifts of 10 hours each, followed by four days off
• Five day shifts of seven hours each followed by two days off
  

Shift start and end times vary by dispatch centre.

EMCT and EMD wages are set according to the BC Ambulance Service Collective Agreement.

To work as an emergency medical dispatcher, you must have:

• Grade 12 education
• Current Occupational First Aid (OFA) certificate
• Current CRP-C certificate
• Be at least 19 years old
  

BCEHS reviews criminal records on a case-by-case basis. We assess each offence to determine whether it affects a person's ability to perform the role safely and effectively.‎

EMDs can pursue careers in:

• Training
• Quality improvement
• Supervision
• Superintendent roles
  

Employees interested in becoming paramedics must complete the required paramedic training and licensing.

To work as a paramedic, you must:

• Hold a primary care paramedic licence
• Meet BCEHS medical and physical requirements
  

Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for paramedic positions.

You can apply for EMD positions in multiple regions. Selection processes may vary by region. Please note that the Lower Mainland accepts applications for full-time positions only.

All new EMDs must complete the Emergency Medical Dispatcher Training Program. Training typically takes four to twelve months.

The program teaches the skills and knowledge needed to work as an EMD with BCEHS. Successful completion of the program is required before starting work in the role.

BCEHS pays employees while they attend training. Your probationary period begins after you successfully complete the program.

You do not need public safety communications training before applying.

However, BCEHS may give preference to applicants who have completed related training programs.