Well I live in in Minneapolis at the moment, but am trying to get a job in St. Paul.
There are a few company's that hire EMT's of which I am hopefully gettong a job at. They have openings every few months and seem like pretty solid places to work... As far as private company's I don't know too much (but would be open to knowing more :unsure:

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It is common for hospitals to hire EMT's as ER Techs.. Over in St. Paul is Regions (which is a level I Trauma center) the people are super nice over there... if I can't find any ambulance job I might just end up working there as atleast they get a lot of action...
I will say I have had a semi difficult time finding a job (still haven't found one yet) I graduated last august and got my certs in September.
1. Unlike you I have no experience yet.
2. I don't know anybody (it seems to me knowing someone helps getting a job.
3. It seems to be hard to find a job in the MSP area right now...
I know out in rural MN they are hiring EMT's fairly often... I am working on BA degree though sooo... for me that isn't an option right now.
As far as the ambulance companies that hire every few months it might not hurt to get in contact with the HR people?
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If I remember correctly you apply at the EMSRB (
http://www.emsrb.state.mn.us/) before taking your NREMT.
You can then choose a testing location for your NREMT.
Take it and of course pass and both of them will be considered effective on the sameday.
Hope that helps
Rugrat