Earnings

The median annual wage of emergency medical technicians and paramedics was $31,070 in May 2012. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,180. The top 10 percent earned more than $53,550.

About one-third worked more than full time in 2012. Because EMTs and paramedics must be available to work in emergencies, they may work overnight and on weekends.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition (http://www.bls.gov/oco/)