I work in Hemet, which is in Riverside County; also nearby Riverside. As BASICallyEMT said, you'll need to work at least three shifts a month. You'll have your choice of whatever shifts are open, so ALS or BLS. If you went on full time you'd be working 4 days one week, 3 days the next, with overtime available whenever there's an open shift. That being said, if you do go full time you'll probably end up on a BLS unit. BLS isn't the worst thing for new hires. You learn where all the hospitals are, how to drive, how your gear works, and all of it in a stress free environment, so when your ALS time comes, you'll be prepared. The hiring process is pretty straightforward. Seems like most people have a written test (I did not), skills test, oral interview, followed by a physical test once you're hired.
The skills test is very straightforward. I had to do a trauma assessment, back-boarding/splinting, and CPR/BVM of an apneic/pulseless patient. It wouldn't surprise me if you had to do a full medical assessment as well, so be prepared to know that. Study your Registry skills sheets and you'll do great. The guy doing your test will most likely be an EMT/Medic as well and wants you to pass. That means they'll also be working along-side you when you get hired. Be confident in your actions. After that, they'll give you a call and schedule your physical date.
As for other companies, I'm fairly certain AMR is the only 911 company in Riverside, but don't quote me on that. The IFT companies around there are Symons, Mission, and PMT. I don't know much about PMT or Symons, but the guys that worked for Mission where I am really did not like it. That being said, apply everywhere and take what you can get. It'll help you in the future if you have previous EMS experience. I know Hemet pays more if you have past experience and I would assume the other places do as well. Good luck!
