Getting a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification can open new doors for your career. Whether you’re applying for healthcare jobs or roles in childcare, fitness, or education, having this certification on your resume can set you apart. But what kinds of jobs require BLS certification? How do you add it to your resume to get noticed by employers?
This blog covers everything you need to know about BLS certification jobs, how to put BLS certification on a resume, and the best way to use it as a career booster. If you want to stand out in a sea of applicants, this guide will show you how.
BLS certification is more than just a piece of paper — it’s a sign that you’re trained to save lives. It shows that you know how to perform CPR, use an AED (automated external defibrillator), and help people during choking emergencies. Employers love to see BLS certification on a resume because it means you’re ready to act when every second counts.
But here’s the part people often miss — BLS certification jobs aren’t just for healthcare workers. It’s required or preferred in several other industries too. This makes it a valuable credential for anyone looking to boost their career.
If you’re wondering, “What jobs can I get with a BLS certification?” you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of options. BLS certification is a requirement in many healthcare positions, but it’s also a plus in other fields where safety and emergency readiness matter.
• Nurses: Registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) often need BLS certification to be hired.
• Medical Assistants: Clinics, outpatient centers, and hospitals require medical assistants to have BLS certification.
• EMTs and Paramedics: Emergency responders must be BLS certified to provide fast, life-saving care.
• Respiratory Therapists: Working with patients who have breathing issues makes BLS training essential.
• Dental Assistants: BLS certification is sometimes required for dental assistants, especially those involved in procedures that use sedation.
• Teachers: School employees, especially those working with young children, benefit from having BLS certification.
• Childcare Workers: Parents and childcare facilities love to see BLS certification on a resume for roles like babysitters and daycare workers.
• Coaches & Athletic Trainers: Coaches and trainers are often the first responders when players get injured on the field.
• Personal Trainers: Gyms prefer hiring personal trainers who have BLS certification in case of health emergencies during workouts.
Having BLS certification shows that you’re ready to handle emergencies, and that’s something every employer can appreciate.
If you’ve earned your BLS certification, the next step is to show it off on your resume. But where do you put it, and how do you format it so employers can see it right away?
Here’s the right way to do it:
1. Create a “Certifications” Section
• Add a dedicated section for “Certifications” on your resume.
• This section should be easy to spot, so place it right after your skills or education section.
Example:
"BLS Certification — Medicus Training (Valid through [Expiration Date])"
2. Include It in Your Skills Section
If the job description mentions BLS certification as a requirement, you’ll want to list it under your “Skills” section too. This increases the chance that applicant tracking systems (ATS) will recognize it.
3. Mention It in Your Professional Summary
If BLS certification is a major qualification for the role, mention it right in your resume summary.
Example:
“Certified Medical Assistant with 4+ years of experience and current BLS certification from Medicus Training.”
Why does BLS certification matter so much to employers? It’s simple — in emergency situations, every second counts. Employers want to know that their staff is ready to act when things go wrong.
For healthcare jobs, BLS certification is essential. If you’re working as a nurse, EMT, or medical assistant, BLS certification is often a non-negotiable requirement. But even outside of healthcare, employers like schools, gyms, and childcare centers value employees with life-saving skills.
Here’s Why It Matters
• Safety and Readiness: Employers want to know that their staff can handle emergencies.
• Compliance: Some industries require it as a condition of employment.
• Hiring Advantage: If two applicants are equally qualified, the one with BLS certification is more likely to get hired.
BLS certification doesn’t last forever. It typically needs to be renewed every two years. Employers expect you to have a valid, up-to-date certification when you apply for jobs.
How to Renew It
1. Take an Online Refresher Course: First, take our BLS practice test, then enroll in the BLS Recertification course.
2. Check Employer Requirements: Some companies offer in-house recertification.
3. Renew Before It Expires: Don’t wait until your BLS certification expires. Renew early to avoid lapses.
Once you renew it, update your resume to reflect the new expiration date.
Got an interview lined up? Here’s how to make sure your BLS certification stands out:
1. Talk About Emergency Experience: If you’ve ever used your BLS training in real life, share that story. Interviewers love real-life examples.
2. Showcase Your Calm Under Pressure: BLS certification teaches you how to stay calm during emergencies. Let them know you’re ready for high-pressure situations.
3. Mention Teamwork: BLS training often involves team-based scenarios. Emphasize how well you work with others in a crisis.
By highlighting these points, you’ll make a strong impression and stand out from other candidates.
BLS certification is more than just a requirement — it’s a career booster. It can qualify you for healthcare jobs, childcare roles, fitness positions, and more. By learning how to add it to your resume and present it during interviews, you give yourself a competitive edge.
If you’re still wondering if BLS certification is worth it, the answer is yes. It opens doors to more jobs, helps you stand out as a candidate, and shows employers that you’re ready for anything. Whether you’re aiming for a role as a nurse, EMT, or teacher, having this certification on your resume is a smart move.
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