County seeking first responders for ‘first-tiered EMS system in the Nation’

Thurston County is searching nationwide for firefighters and paramedics who will serve in Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater.

In a press release, Thurston County Medic One announced that successful applicants will be part of the “first-tiered EMS system in the Nation” and will be placed on the hiring list of the three cities.

The statement did not explain what the tiered system would entail.

“We are currently offering to pay for travel expenses for qualifying, out-of-state candidates to come to our next testing event on April 10th and 11th,” Medic One added.

Thurston County’s website said that individuals who send their applications before Thursday, March 21, 5 p.m. PST will have their travel expenses for the April 10 to 11 tests, including:

• Round-trip flight
• Three-night hotel stay, based on the current per diem rate
• Rental Car
• Meals based on the current per diem rate

“The top PST scores from the current applicant pool will be invited to participate in the next scenario-based exam process,” the county said.

Interested applicants may contact Daphne Reaves through 360-704-2782 or email for inquiries and assistance.