Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6): A Leadership Role with the ICE Health Service Corps
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a vital role in providing essential medical care within the Department of Homeland Security. We are currently recruiting a seasoned, mission-driven Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) to oversee nursing services at our facility in Tacoma, Washington. This position is a rare opportunity for a high-level USPHS officer to lead clinical operations, shape healthcare strategy, and manage professional nursing staff in a challenging and rewarding environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Nurse Manager, you will serve as a core member of the local facility leadership team (TRIAD). Your primary duties include:
- Clinical Leadership: Overseeing nursing practice, procedures, and service delivery across the facility.
- Staff Supervision: Serving as the direct supervisor for assistant nurse managers and federal nursing staff, while acting as the technical monitor for contract nursing personnel.
- Operational Oversight: Managing nursing care plans for patients with diverse needs, including medical, surgical, and mental health requirements.
- Quality Improvement: Collaborating with medical leadership to develop clinical outcomes, improve efficiency, and ensure adherence to national nursing guidelines.
Requirements
This position demands a high level of expertise. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Status: Must be a current USPHS officer.
- Education: Baccalaureate degree in nursing (Master’s preferred).
- Clinical Experience: Minimum of 9 years in professional nursing, including 4 years of clinical/inpatient experience and 4 years of specialty nursing.
- Supervisory Experience: 3+ years in a management capacity.
- Certifications: Current RN license and BLS/CPR. Must be willing to obtain CCHP-RN certification.
Comparison of Key Expectations
| Expectation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Clinical Experience | 9 Years Total |
| Supervisory Experience | 3 Years Minimum |
| Education | BSN Required / MSN Preferred |
| Certifications | RN & BLS/CPR Required |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary with a range extending up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with your USPHS pay grade and specific experience level.
Benefits
Joining the federal workforce provides unparalleled stability and benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement packages, the Thrift Savings Plan, and extensive opportunities for ongoing professional leadership training.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your USPHS Promotion CV clearly delineates your supervisory achievements and experience with complex healthcare operations. Organize your documents exactly as requested in the application instructions to ensure prompt processing.
This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to lead and influence the standard of care in a complex and important medical environment. If you are a USPHS officer ready to take the next step in your leadership career, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Matters
Lead critical nursing operations in a high-tempo environment where your clinical expertise directly impacts the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable populations.
Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Overview
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Health Service Corps is seeking a dedicated and experienced Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6) to oversee nursing services at a major detention facility in Tacoma, Washington. This supervisory role is essential for ensuring that healthcare delivery meets the highest national, state, and local standards. As a key member of the local facility leadership team (TRIAD), you will collaborate with the clinical director and health service administrator to manage nursing staff, optimize operational efficiencies, and ensure compliance with complex regulatory requirements in a high-acuity environment.
Requirements for Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Must be a current commissioned officer in the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS).
- Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing is required; a Master's degree in a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 9 years of professional clinical nursing experience.
- At least 4 years of experience in a specialized area, with preference for correctional health care.
- At least 4 years of direct clinical patient care experience, preferably in an inpatient setting.
- A minimum of 3 years of administrative experience in a supervisory capacity.
- Must possess a current, valid Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Must maintain active CPR/BLS certification.
- Ability to obtain CCHP-RN certification within 2 years of assignment.
- Ability to complete ICE Supervisory Leadership Training within 1 year and Advanced ICE Supervisory Leadership Training within 2 years.
- Successful completion of a background investigation for a Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk position.
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Master's Degree in Nursing or a closely related healthcare field.
- Extensive background in correctional nursing environments.
- Documented experience in high-tempo, large-facility nursing management (500+ beds).
- Proven track record of success in multidisciplinary team leadership and staff development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance options.
- ✓Exceptional federal retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Professional development and dedicated leadership training.
- ✓Career growth within the Department of Homeland Security.
- ✓Opportunities for inter-agency collaboration and public health initiatives.
💡 How to Apply Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Nurse Manager (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your U.S. Public Health Service Promotion CV and supporting documentation.
- Ensure you have a copy of your recent COERs and Certificate of Investigation.
- Submit your application, including your Cover Letter and required licensure/degree copies, via the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire in full.
- Confirm submission by clicking 'Submit My Answers' before the September 30, 2026, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Do not wait until the deadline; ensure all documents, including your Service Remaining Requirements Agreement, are uploaded early.
- Clearly highlight your supervisory experience and correctional health background in your CV.
- Verify that your email address is correct in your USAJOBS profile to receive status notifications.
- If you lack an Assignment Pay agreement, ensure you include the required memo in your application package.
- Review your eOPF to ensure all credentials and certifications are current before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is open exclusively to current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officers.
What is the expected work environment?
The position is located in a large detention facility. It is classified as hazardous duty and requires physical exertion, such as lifting or assisting patients, and the ability to work in an austere, high-tempo setting.
Will I be required to travel?
Yes, some travel may be required to fulfill the duties of the role or to support agency operations.
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, relocation may be authorized for this position.
Is this a remote role?
No, this is an onsite position located in Tacoma, Washington.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
As a component of the Department of Homeland Security, the IHSC is responsible for ensuring that detainees receive appropriate medical care. Our mission is built on professional integrity, clinical excellence, and the protection of public safety. We operate in over 400 offices nationwide, with a dedicated team committed to providing compassionate care to special needs populations.