What does a first aid instructor do?
First aid instructors teach students how to treat wounds, burns, insect bites, sprains, broken bones and other issues. They also often instruct students on CPR, choking prevention and automated external defibrillators (AEDs). After the training, students can usually provide basic care until a medical professional arrives.
Organizations may hire first aid instructors for internal or external training programs. In internal-facing roles, instructors ensure employees in relevant roles, such as home health aides or child care workers, can respond appropriately in an emergency. By teaching external classes, they enable employers to offer new or additional first aid courses.
First aid instructor skills and qualifications
First aid instructors rely on hard skills and soft skills to fulfill their in-class responsibilities. Because first aid standards of care change over time, instructors must continue to build and refine their skills.
Skills commonly identified in first aid instructor job description templates include:
- Knowledge of lifesaving techniques and first aid standards, such as CPR or Basic Lifesaving (BLS), for infants, children and adults
- Demonstrated oral and written communication skills
- Strong observational and problem-solving skills
- Understanding of how to provide constructive feedback to help students improve
- Ability to use CPR manikins, AED trainers, tourniquet arm trainers and other supplies and equipment
- Experience using email, presentation software and Student Information System (SIS) software, such as Ellucian Banner or CampusNext
- Ability to move heavy equipment and boxes of supplies from one place to another
First aid instructor experience requirements
To take a skills-first approach to hiring, assess a candidate’s practical experience with first aid. A background in healthcare, such as work history as a paramedic or certified nursing assistant, can help candidates gain transferable skills for the instructor role.
Previous teaching experience can also be beneficial. This could come from work as a health educator, paraprofessional, teacher or a similar position. However, candidates with volunteer teaching experience may have relevant skills for your first aid instructor position.
First aid instructor education and training requirements
There are generally no specific degree requirements for first aid instructors. However, you may prefer candidates with formal classroom training in first aid.
Instructors who will teach certification classes for specific organizations may need to hold special credentials. For example, the American Red Cross offers First Aid/CPR/AED certification for instructors, while the American Heart Association (AHA) grants instructor certifications for CPR, first aid, AED, BLS and other disciplines.
First aid instructor salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a first aid instructor is $55,268 per year. Actual salaries depend on a candidate’s location, experience and skills, employer type and other factors.
First aid instructor salary expectations
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Common salary:
36.82 HOURLY -
Typical salaries range from
11.30 -76.80 HOURLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Job description samples for similar positions
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