EMS agencies across Virginia are always working to strengthen their workforce. Recruitment and retention are ongoing priorities that help ensure EMS remains strong and ready to serve every community. The Office of EMS provides tools, networks, and resources to assist agencies with attracting new members and supporting the dedicated providers already serving.
EMS Recruitment and Retention Resources:
The following tools and networks are available to support Virginia EMS agencies in building and sustaining their workforce. Each provides different types of assistance, from peer collaboration to toolkits and campaign models.
- Virginia Fire-EMS Recruitment and Retention Network Facebook page – A statewide collaborative group focused on sharing best practices, strategies, and solutions for EMS recruitment and retention.
- EMS Workforce Retention Tool Kit – Keeping the Best – A Virginia-specific toolkit designed to help agencies retain their providers through recognition, support strategies, and organizational best practices.
- Recruitment Campaigns – OEMS guidance, examples, and external resources for planning, launching, and evaluating a recruitment campaign tailored to your community.
- Retention Resources – A collection of state and national tools to help agencies support, motivate, and maintain their EMS workforce.
Job/Volunteer Opportunities:
- EMS Employment/Volunteer Opportunities: – A centralized classifieds section for EMS Volunteer and Career opportunities in Virginia. Agencies and municipalities can post opportunities in their agencies and jurisdictions, allowing for an easily accessible search engine for EMS Providers in Virginia.
- Virginia EMS Recruitment Directory – A resource highlighting EMS agency contact information and pathways for individuals interested in serving their local communities.
- EMS Job Center – A national job board listing positions across EMS systems, from entry-level providers to leadership roles.
- NASEMSO Job Board – A national job board hosted by the National Association of State EMS Officials, featuring postings for EMS leadership, management, and specialty positions.
- Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority – A statewide resource promoting careers in health professions, including EMS, with information on scholarships, workforce programs, and opportunities.
- 911 Dispatcher Edu – A career and education site for those interested in becoming a 911 dispatcher, including Virginia-specific training and job information.
Education and Networking Opportunities:
Recruitment and retention are strengthened when EMS leaders and providers have opportunities to learn, share, and connect. The following programs and networks provide education, training, and peer support designed to help agencies build stronger teams.
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Virginia Recruitment & Retention Network
Regular meetings and knowledge-sharing sessions where Virginia EMS agencies exchange strategies, discuss challenges, and highlight successful practices. -
Workforce Development Committee (State EMS Advisory Board)
Provides a forum for statewide discussion and recommendations on EMS workforce issues, including recruitment, retention, and leadership development. -
Conferences and Regional Workshops (OEMS and partners)
Events hosted throughout the year offering training sessions, networking, and peer-to-peer learning on workforce development topics. -
Webinars and Online Training Modules (coming soon)
OEMS is developing additional web-based learning resources to support agency leaders in recruitment and retention planning.
Have an opportunity to share?
OEMS welcomes submissions for EMS recruitment, retention, training, or networking events. Agencies interested in promoting opportunities are encouraged to contact Chris Vernovai at Chris.Vernovai@vdh.virginia.gov
Contact Us:
Chris Vernovai
EMS Systems Planner
Chris.Vernovai@vdh.virginia.gov
Phone: 804-356-1537