Become a Key Investigator for the ICE Health Service Corps
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals within immigration detention receive appropriate medical, dental, and mental health care. As the agency expands its commitment to accountability and safety, it is seeking a dedicated U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer to join the Investigations Unit as an Investigator (O-5 Billet). This non-supervisory role is perfect for a mission-driven professional eager to apply their clinical background to high-stakes investigative work.
Job Responsibilities
As an Investigator, you will be responsible for conducting prompt, equitable, and impartial administrative investigations. Your daily work will involve:
- Performing on-site investigations at detention facilities nationwide.
- Reviewing medical records and gathering evidence to support findings.
- Interviewing staff, facility leadership, and other relevant parties.
- Drafting comprehensive investigative reports for senior leadership and external stakeholders, including Congress.
- Recommending policy and operational improvements to enhance unit efficiency.
Requirements
This position is open only to current USPHS officers. Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Current, unrestricted clinical license (RN, Physician, PA, Pharmacist, Dentist, etc.).
- Minimum of five years of professional experience in your clinical field.
- At least two years of direct experience in a detention or correctional healthcare setting.
- Ability to pass a Tier 4 background investigation.
Eligibility Comparison
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | USPHS Officer Status Required |
| Experience | 5+ Years Professional / 2+ Years Correctional |
| Training | OPR Management Inquiry (Post-Hire) |
| Security | Tier 4 Background Investigation |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with your grade and USPHS pay scales. Benefits include full federal healthcare, retirement contributions, and the unique advantages associated with Public Health Service Commissioned Corps service.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Federal Benefits Package.
- Specialized training in investigative techniques and management.
- Opportunity for professional growth within the Department of Homeland Security.
- Support for travel and regional collaboration.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application package is comprehensive. Include your full USPHS Promotion CV, your three most recent COERs, and clear documentation of your professional licenses. Because applications are reviewed for specific investigative potential, emphasize your experience with policy, quality management, or risk assessment.
If you are a USPHS officer ready to pivot your clinical expertise toward administrative oversight and public safety, this role at the ICE Health Service Corps offers a rewarding career path. Apply by September 30, 2026, to take the next step in your professional journey.
Why This Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External Job Matters
Join the elite investigative unit within the ICE Health Service Corps and utilize your clinical expertise to ensure the highest standards of care and accountability within federal detention facilities.
Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a qualified U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer to join the Investigations Unit as a Non-Supervisory Investigator (O-5 Billet). This critical role involves conducting impartial administrative investigations into health care quality, morbidity and mortality incidents, and allegations of staff misconduct across a vast national network of detention centers.
Requirements for Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External
- Must be a current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer.
- Hold a current, unrestricted clinical license in a professional category including RN, Advanced Practice Nurse, Physician Assistant, Pharmacist, Dentist, Dental Hygienist, or Physician.
- Possess a qualifying degree for your officer category plus at least five years of relevant professional experience.
- Minimum of two years of experience in a detention or correctional facility setting.
- Eligibility for the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) Management Inquiry Training within one year of hire.
- Must be able to successfully complete a Tier 4 background investigation.
- Must possess a valid driver's license and be available for travel up to twice per month.
Preferred Qualifications for Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External
- At least two years of supervisory experience or management/administrative experience within public health programs.
- Deep working knowledge of ICE detention standards and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) requirements.
- Experience in medical quality management or health care risk management.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite including SharePoint and Excel.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and USPHS pay scale.
- ✓Opportunity to influence national detention health standards.
- ✓Professional development through specialized OPR investigative training.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package for commissioned officers.
- ✓Support for travel and operational field assignments.
💡 How to Apply Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Investigator (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory - External Job
- Prepare your U.S. Public Health Service Promotion CV, cover letter, and copies of your professional licenses.
- Ensure you have your three most recent Commissioned Officer Effectiveness Reports (COER).
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including the Certificate of Investigation and Service Remaining Requirements Agreement.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your application package is complete; missing documentation may result in disqualification.
- Double-check that your email address is correct in the system to receive status notifications.
- Highlight your specific experience in correctional health environments to align with the agency's mission.
- Use your USPHS Promotion CV as your primary record of accomplishment, supplemented by a civilian resume if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is strictly limited to current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers. Individuals currently in the Call to Active Duty (CAD) process are not eligible.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, the role requires agency-directed travel up to twice per month for periods ranging from one to seven days, often with minimal notice.
What happens if I do not have a supervisor background?
While two years of supervisory or management experience is preferred, the base requirements focus on clinical licensing and correctional facility experience. You should still apply if you meet the core qualifications.
Can I submit my application via email?
No. Applications must be submitted through the official USAJOBS portal to ensure proper tracking and consideration.
What is the travel expectation?
You should be prepared for travel up to twice per month, often on short notice, as investigations occur on-site at facilities across the country.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
As a sub-agency of the Department of Homeland Security, the ICE Health Service Corps manages a complex healthcare system across over 140 detention facilities. The Investigations Unit (IIU) is the backbone of internal oversight, handling inquiries into healthcare delivery, morbidity and mortality incidents, and personnel conduct. Joining this team means contributing to the integrity of one of the largest investigative agencies in the federal government.