I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Scottish Ambulance Service (Motherwell, Scotland) in Apr 2021
Interview
Due to Covid, interviews were carried out online. Then if successful, occupational fitness assessments were held at DHQ a few weeks later.
The online interview was surprisingly relaxed. Two area managers were present in two separate locations. The questions were mainly competency based, giving you an opportunity to reflect on previous experience relevant to the role.
The occupational fitness assessment involved a number of tasks designed to simulate the kind of things you would be required to do on an emergency call, such as listening and repeating. Lifting and stepping, administering CPR and dexterity. Very straightforward and well explained. The assessors were very friendly and put me at ease.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe a situation in the workplace when you or someone else was dishonest and how you responded or reacted?
Fairly straightforward process, shortlisting then an occupational fitness test compiling of information recall and various stepping exercises and 2 mins of CPR on a dummy.
Teams interview with an Area Service Manager and 2 Paramedic Team Leaders. I was asked a total of 6 competency questions, and there were also probing questions asked due to my responses. * Study the service and core values and competencies as the questions are different for everyone*
Heard back a few days later and offered a conditional offer, the condition being getting my C1 entitlement on my license 6 weeks before any course date offered which will be a 2024 intake by the looks of it.
These were very positive experiences, both the fitness and interview were fairly easy-going, but that was mostly due to how the team put me at ease, and I was able to come out of my shell.
I am definitely looking forward to my career with SAS.
Interview questions [4]
Question 1
Tell me a time where you have had to adapt your communication to the situation
I applied online. I interviewed at Scottish Ambulance Service
Interview
Applied online. Had online interview with two members of staff due to Pandemic. Then had a fitness test which was exactly as described. First repeat back some sentences, then 2 minutes Chest compressions, then 2 minutes stepping up and down a step with 5 kg dumbells in each hand, then put together a piece of equipment as demonstrated by them, then stepping up and down for 3 minutes with 15 kg dumbells in each hand, then repeat back sentences to them. All very straight forward. The 3 minutes up and down the step with 15 kg dumbells was the most challenging and worth training for before hand.
The interviews were all very friendly and welcoming.
I had to apply for a Disclosure which was paid for by them and very straight forward.
I had to get my vaccination history from my doctors, very straight forward and finally a couple of other forms and get my blood tested. All very simple and straight forward.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell us about a time you were empathetic in the work place.