Become an Infection Prevention Officer with the ICE Health Service Corps
Are you a dedicated clinical professional looking to apply your skills in a high-impact, national-level environment? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through the ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC), is currently accepting applications for an Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet). This role is critical to maintaining the health and safety of individuals in detention settings and represents a unique opportunity for USPHS officers to contribute to public health on the front lines.
Job Responsibilities
The Infection Prevention Officer serves as a subject matter expert and the primary lead for infection control activities. Your core duties will include:
- Outbreak Mitigation: Leading contact and outbreak investigations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
- TB Case Management: Overseeing all aspects of tuberculosis surveillance, tracking, and clinical documentation.
- Regulatory Liaison: Acting as the main point of contact between medical clinics, public health authorities, and ERO leadership.
- Policy Oversight: Updating local operating procedures to ensure compliance with federal standards and accreditation requirements.
- Training: Providing education to healthcare staff on infection control protocols.
Requirements
This position requires specific clinical credentials and active status within the USPHS. Candidates must possess:
- A current, unrestricted professional license (Nurse, NP, PA, or Pharmacist).
- A minimum of three years of specialized experience in infection prevention or TB management.
- Proficiency with clinical documentation software and Microsoft Office.
- The physical ability to work in an austere detention environment.
Candidate Comparison Table
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Work Setting | Detention/Correctional Healthcare |
| Travel | Required for facility coverage |
| Clearance | Critical-Sensitive (CS) High Risk |
| Discipline | Nurse, NP, PA, or Pharmacist |
| Licensure | Any U.S. State, Territory, or DC |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with the O-5 rank, with a range up to $150,000 per year, depending on qualifications and service history.
Benefits
As a USPHS Commissioned Officer, you will enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement and pension options.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Career advancement and leadership training.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, focus on detailing your experience with public health surveillance in your resume. Since this is a federal role, ensure your documentation—including your COERs and professional license—is current and clearly organized in the USAJOBS portal. Given the high-risk nature of the position, provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays in the security investigation process.
If you are an experienced healthcare professional ready to step into a leadership-level role that directly impacts public health outcomes, this Infection Prevention Officer position is an ideal next step. By joining the IHSC, you contribute to a vital mission while growing your career within the federal service. Applications are open until September 30, 2026—start your application today.
Why This Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Protect public health on the front lines: Join the ICE Health Service Corps as an Infection Prevention Officer and make a critical impact in a dynamic federal environment.
Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a dedicated Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) to oversee infection control and outbreak mitigation at detention facilities in Pearsall, Texas. This non-supervisory role is designated for U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates. You will serve as a key subject matter expert, managing tuberculosis clearance protocols, conducting surveillance, and ensuring medical facilities maintain the highest standards of safety.
Requirements for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
- Hold a current, unrestricted professional license (Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or Pharmacist) from a U.S. state, territory, or D.C.
- Minimum of three years of professional experience in infection prevention, control, or TB care.
- Active CPR/BLS certification.
- Demonstrated proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, SharePoint).
- Ability to perform essential physical duties, including lifting over 30 lbs and responding to emergency clinical situations in an austere environment.
- Must pass a rigorous background investigation for Critical-Sensitive/High-Risk position status.
Preferred Qualifications for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Advanced clinical degrees (MSN, Pharm.D., or Master's in Physician Assistant studies).
- Expertise in national public health guidance and accreditation standards for detention or correctional healthcare.
- Strong project management and analytical skills capable of managing data-heavy public health investigations.
- Proven experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including state/local health departments and law enforcement.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal benefits package
- âś“Opportunities for professional development within the USPHS
- âś“Career stability within the Department of Homeland Security
- âś“Contribution to national public health security initiatives
đź’ˇ How to Apply Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
- Prepare your application package including your CV, professional license, and current USPHS documentation.
- Upload all required materials as specified in the announcement.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your professional resume highlights your specific experience in infection control, as this is a key screening criterion.
- Double-check that all required documents—especially your COERs and promotion CV—are clearly labeled according to the instructions.
- Contact the HR representative at least one day before the deadline if you encounter technical issues.
- Verify that your email address is correct in your USAJOBS profile to ensure you receive status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is strictly open to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps officers and individuals qualified for a Call to Active Duty (CAD) to the USPHS.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, some travel is required to support other IHSC locations and perform infection prevention duties as assigned.
What is the physical nature of the work?
The work occurs in an austere environment and may require physical exertion, such as lifting over 30 pounds, performing CPR, and assisting patients during emergency evacuations.
Can I apply if I am not a USPHS officer?
*A: This role is designed for USPHS officers and those eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD).*
What is the primary focus of this role?
*A: The focus is on TB case management and infection control surveillance within a detention healthcare setting.*
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) operates within the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) framework. With a multidisciplinary workforce of over 1,600 employees, IHSC provides essential medical and public health services to detainees across 20 detention facilities nationwide. The organization manages the health care of a large population, ensuring that standards of care are met in complex, secure environments. Working here means joining a mission-driven team dedicated to protecting America's national security and public safety through smart, compassionate healthcare delivery.