Leading Dental Excellence: A Guide to the ICE Health Service Corps Chief Dentist Role
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a vital role in the medical and dental oversight of detainees nationwide. We are currently recruiting a dedicated and experienced Local Chief Dentist (O-6) to oversee our advanced clinic in Pearsall, Texas. This is a unique opportunity for USPHS officers and CAD candidates to combine clinical expertise with administrative leadership in a high-stakes, rewarding environment.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will do more than treat patients. You will:
- Supervise a clinical team of three or more staff members.
- Direct clinic scheduling, budget management, and equipment procurement.
- Serve as the local Subject Matter Expert for dental clinic operations.
- Guide the unit through rigorous accreditation reviews.
- Perform direct clinical dental care, with an emphasis on oral surgery.
Comparison: Clinical vs. Administrative Duties
| Feature | Clinical Responsibilities | Administrative Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Patient care & oral health | Policy, scheduling & budget |
| Output | Procedural outcomes | Accreditation & staff management |
| Impact | Immediate health relief | Long-term facility stability |
Requirements
To qualify for this O-6 billet, candidates must hold a DDS or DMD, maintain an unrestricted license, and possess at least 6 years of clinical experience. Furthermore, candidates must have at least 2 years of formal leadership experience and demonstrate high proficiency in infection control and patient safety protocols.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is set at up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with the rank and experience of the successful USPHS candidate.
Benefits
- Professional growth within the federal health system.
- Access to specialized medical training.
- Support for national mission-critical operations.
- Comprehensive government-backed benefits and stability.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your USPHS Promotion CV clearly delineates your time in supervisory roles.
- Check Dates: Submit your application well before the September 30, 2026 deadline.
- Upload Everything: Missing a single document, such as your COERs or license, may disqualify your application.
If you are a dental professional who is ready to take the next step into high-level federal leadership, this Chief Dentist role in Pearsall offers the challenge and impact you seek. Apply today to contribute to the mission of the ICE Health Service Corps.
Why This Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Matters
Lead dental operations in a high-impact environment where your expertise directly safeguards public health and national safety.
Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a highly skilled Local Chief Dentist (O-6) to oversee advanced dental clinic operations in Pearsall, Texas. This leadership role is designed for U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers or qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates who thrive in complex clinical environments. You will supervise dental teams, manage facility-wide oral health care for a large patient population, and ensure rigorous adherence to safety, infection control, and accreditation standards.
Requirements for Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Possession of a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) from an accredited program.
- Active, unrestricted license to practice dentistry in a U.S. State, District of Columbia, or territory.
- Minimum of 6 years of professional clinical dental experience.
- At least 2 years of proven supervisory, leadership, or practice management experience.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Status as a U.S. Public Health Service Officer or eligibility for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
- Must be able to pass a critical-sensitive (CS)/High Risk security background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Extensive background in oral surgery.
- Experience navigating and guiding dental programs through recurring accreditation reviews.
- Demonstrated ability to manage clinic operations, budgets, and interdisciplinary staffing in a high-volume facility.
- Expertise in infection control and environmental health safety protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Professional development and leadership opportunities within the USPHS
- ✓Relocation incentives as applicable
- ✓Participation in national quality improvement initiatives
💡 How to Apply Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Local Chief Dentist Advanced Clinic (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare all required documentation, including your USPHS Promotion CV and official transcripts.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application through the online portal before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
- Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure all professional references include accurate contact information.
- Submit your application at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Clearly highlight your supervisory experience in your CV, as this is a leadership-heavy role.
- Double-check that all required documents, such as your license and COERs, are correctly uploaded under the specified headings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the general public?
No, this role is specifically for current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and those eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
What is the primary mission of this role?
The Chief Dentist is responsible for the overall dental program management at the facility, supervising dental staff, and ensuring high-quality, timely care for the detainee population.
How often is the position reviewed?
Your work is periodically evaluated for technical soundness and professional standards, with the flexibility to implement innovative operational changes.
Is travel required?
Yes, the role may require up to 30% TDY travel to support other facilities.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
As a branch of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) works to secure our borders and uphold public safety. The IHSC provides comprehensive healthcare, including dental services, across various detention facilities. Joining our team means joining a multidisciplinary group committed to humanitarian standards and operational excellence.