Elevate Your Nursing Career: QAPI Nurse Opportunity with the Indian Health Service

Are you a nurse leader passionate about improving healthcare quality and patient safety? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a dedicated Nurse to fill a critical Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) role in Lower Brule, South Dakota. This position is a cornerstone for ensuring that our healthcare facilities deliver the highest standard of care to American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the primary lead for the assessment, development, and implementation of QAPI activities. Key duties include:

Facilitating data collection and reporting for AAAHC and internal accreditation standards.
Monitoring hospital performance and conducting periodic performance reviews.
Investigating system issues to develop and implement effective corrective action plans.
Auditing medical charts to ensure quality of care and adherence to regulatory standards.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

U.S. Citizenship.
A valid, unrestricted Registered Nurse license.
A degree from an accredited professional nursing educational program.
One full year of specialized nursing experience at the GS-9 level.
Ability to pass a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.

Feature	Details
Position Title	Nurse (QAPI)
Salary Range	$98,244 - $127,725
Location	Lower Brule, South Dakota
Security Level	Moderate Risk
Closing Date	August 3, 2026

Salary Overview

This position is classified under the GS-11 pay scale, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $98,244 to $127,725 depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Beyond salary, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package:

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Generous leave accrual based on years of service.
Government-backed retirement plans.
Eligibility for student loan repayment assistance through programs like the NHSC or Nurse Corps.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience specifically related to quality improvement, data analysis, and regulatory compliance.
Be Thorough: Submit all requested transcripts and licensure documentation to ensure your qualifications are fully credited.
Stay Responsive: Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link; it is a vital step in the screening process.

Serving as a QAPI Nurse at the Lower Brule Indian Health Center is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to transform clinical processes and protect patient safety. If you are ready to make a significant impact in public health, we encourage you to submit your application today.

Why This Nurse (Qapi) Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service in South Dakota and lead critical quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Nurse (Qapi) Job Overview

The Lower Brule Indian Health Center is seeking a dedicated Nurse to serve as the lead for Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI). In this pivotal role, you will champion patient safety, ensure compliance with accreditation standards, and drive data-driven improvements across our healthcare systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the health outcomes of our patients while working within a supportive, interdisciplinary professional team.

Requirements for Nurse (Qapi)

U.S. Citizenship
Current, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license
Passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
Graduate or higher degree from an accredited professional nursing program
One full year of specialized nursing experience equivalent to the GS-9 level
Successful completion of a federal background investigation
Demonstration of financial responsibility and good standing
Proof of vaccination or approved exemption for specific health policies
Ability to complete USA Hire assessments within the designated window

Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Qapi)

Proven track record in data collection and quality reporting (QAPI/AAAHC)
Experience in investigating hospital systems to mitigate risks
Expertise in auditing medical charts for quality of care and appropriateness of stay
Strong proficiency in implementing corrective action plans for clinical problems

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance options
✓Competitive paid annual and sick leave accrual
✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k style)
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Access to Student Loan Repayment Programs (subject to funding)
✓Government housing assistance availability

💡 How to Apply Nurse (Qapi) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nurse (Qapi) Job

Carefully review the entire vacancy announcement.
Click the Apply Online button to initiate your profile and application.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload your resume along with supporting documentation.
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on August 3, 2026.
Check your email and the USAJOBS portal for your unique link to complete the USA Hire assessment.
Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for every position listed.
Clearly label all uploaded documents to ensure they are easily identified by HR personnel.
Practice using the resources available on the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
Prioritize the background investigation forms if you are selected for further consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Indian Preference applicable to this position?

Yes, applicants claiming Indian preference must submit form BIA-4432, signed and dated by an authorized Tribal Representative, with their application package.

What happens if I miss the USA Hire assessment deadline?

The assessment is a mandatory component of the evaluation process. Failure to complete it within the allotted timeframe will result in your application being disqualified.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a dynamic organization committed to providing comprehensive health services to over 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our interdisciplinary teams are characterized by their enthusiasm, compassion, and innovation. Joining the IHS means becoming part of a mission-driven community focused on solving complex health challenges in a culturally sensitive and professional environment.