EMT Paramedic in Houston, Texas

Overview

Job Summary

Houston Methodist is seeking an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic to assist with patient care and clinical services within its hospital environment. Under the direction of licensed nurses and healthcare providers, the successful candidate will perform patient assessments, obtain EKGs, collect laboratory specimens, monitor patient conditions, and support a range of approved clinical procedures.

This role requires excellent communication, sound clinical judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering safe, compassionate, patient- and family-centered care.

Essential Job Responsibilities

Patient Care and Clinical Assistance

• Assess patients and assist with care delivery according to established policies, procedures, and validated competencies.
• Perform vital sign measurements, 12-lead EKGs, phlebotomy, and specimen collection as authorized.
• Provide CPR, splinting, immobilization, and other approved interventions within the appropriate scope of practice.
• Assist with patient extrication, decontamination, and ultrasound-guided IV catheter insertion when trained and authorized.
• Conduct hourly patient rounds to identify needs and monitor changes in condition.
• Respond to call lights and coordinate with nursing personnel to address patient concerns.
• Document screenings, treatments, procedures, diagnostic measurements, and other relevant patient information accurately.

Teamwork and Communication

• Collaborate with nurses, physicians, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to support coordinated patient care.
• Report significant patient observations and changes in condition promptly to the appropriate licensed professional.
• Assist colleagues with departmental tasks and help manage competing priorities.
• Support the orientation and training of new EMTs and ancillary personnel on unit procedures and operational readiness.
• Serve as a resource for relevant clinical competencies and validation procedures.
• Promote respectful communication, teamwork, and accountability throughout the department.

Patient Safety and Quality Assurance

• Recognize abnormal vital signs, ECG findings, mental status changes, and signs of clinical deterioration.
• Use rapid assessment and critical thinking skills to identify potential risks and escalate concerns appropriately.
• Receive EMS pre-arrival notifications in accordance with departmental protocols.
• Protect patient confidentiality and maintain a safe care environment.
• Report errors and near misses through established patient safety reporting systems.
• Participate in efforts to prevent patient falls, pressure injuries, hospital-acquired infections, and other avoidable complications.
• Contribute to patient satisfaction, employee engagement, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Departmental Operations

• Use medical supplies and equipment efficiently and responsibly.
• Maintain organized clinical areas and ensure supplies and equipment are readily available.
• Assist with inventory management, supply monitoring, and equipment ordering.
• Support staffing and patient care needs across departments when qualified and authorized.
• Organize daily activities, prioritize responsibilities, and manage time effectively.

Professional Development

• Pursue continuing education and opportunities to expand clinical knowledge and skills.
• Identify learning needs and seek guidance from experienced members of the healthcare team.
• Participate in performance improvement initiatives and shared governance activities.
• Maintain an ongoing professional development plan and contribute to a constructive learning environment.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent, including a GED.
• Completion of an EMT-Advanced or EMT-Paramedic program, current Paramedic licensure, or participation in an EMT-to-Paramedic program with EMT-Advanced classification, as applicable.

Experience

• At least six months of prehospital experience or six months of hospital experience as an EMT or Paramedic.

Required Licenses and Certifications

Candidates must hold at least one of the following state credentials:

• Licensed Paramedic (LP).
• Emergency Medical Technician–Advanced (EMT-A).
• Emergency Medical Technician–Paramedic (EMT-P).

Candidates must also maintain the required certifications:

• BLS: Basic Life Support through the American Heart Association, or instructor certification.
• ACLS: Advanced Cardiac Life Support through the American Heart Association, or instructor certification.
• PALS: Pediatric Advanced Life Support through the American Heart Association, or instructor certification.
• Nonviolent Crisis Intervention: NVCRISIS certification through the Crisis Prevention Institute, or instructor certification.

Required Skills and Competencies

Successful candidates should demonstrate:

• Clinical proficiency and the ability to perform assigned duties safely.
• Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
• Professional, respectful interactions with patients, families, physicians, and colleagues.
• Effective time management, organization, and problem-solving abilities.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
• Computer proficiency, including electronic health record systems such as Epic and Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic EKG interpretation skills.
• Basic knowledge of the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA).
• Adaptability, sound judgment, and a commitment to quality patient care.

Work Environment and Additional Requirements

• Dress Code: Scrubs or other department-approved attire.
• On-Call Responsibilities: Routine on-call duty is not required. Employees may be called upon during emergencies, including disasters and severe weather events.
• Travel Requirements: Travel within or outside the Houston metropolitan area is not expected.