Launch Your Healthcare Career with the Indian Health Service
Are you looking to transition into a mission-driven career that directly impacts the well-being of others? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently accepting applications for Nursing Assistant positions across a diverse range of locations in the United States. This is an incredible opportunity to work within a professional, interdisciplinary medical team dedicated to improving health outcomes for over two million American Indians and Alaska Natives.
About the Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. Employees are known for their creativity, enthusiasm, and deep commitment to community-oriented care. Working at the IHS means becoming part of an innovative and nationwide organization that values service, problem-solving, and professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Nursing Assistant (GS-5), you will play a critical role in the daily operations of a medical facility. Your responsibilities include:
- Patient Care: Providing routine and moderately complex care based on the specific needs of each patient.
- Clinical Support: Collecting and recording vital signs, preparing lab specimens, and assisting with pre- and post-procedure tasks.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate patient data in Electronic Health Records (EHR) while ensuring strict confidentiality.
- Education: Providing ongoing patient and family teaching on topics such as wound care, medication purposes, and diabetic self-care.
- Clinic Efficiency: Assisting in the arrangement of appointments and managing patient discharge procedures.
Requirements and Qualifications
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate sufficient experience or education.
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 grade level. |
| Education | 4-year degree (or 4 years of education above high school) in a related field. |
| Compliance | Must be a U.S. citizen and meet all federal security/financial suitability requirements. |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a salary range of $40,736 to $52,957 per year, depending on the specific location and credentials. Beyond the base salary, federal employees benefit from a robust compensation structure, including structured annual leave, opportunities for advancement, and a stable work environment.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly list the number of hours worked per week for every position held to help recruiters verify your specialized experience.
- Monitor Your Email: You will receive time-sensitive links to the USA Hire Assessments after submission. Failure to complete these tests will disqualify your application.
- Use Official Forms: If claiming Indian Preference or Veteran’s Preference, ensure your documentation (BIA-4432 or DD214) is uploaded correctly at the time of application.
This position is an excellent entry point into the federal healthcare system. Whether you are seeking a permanent role or exploring temporary opportunities, the Indian Health Service offers a fulfilling career path. If you are passionate about patient care and community service, we encourage you to apply and contribute to the vital work of the IHS.
Why This Nursing Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on healthcare outcomes for American Indian and Alaska Native communities as a Nursing Assistant with the Indian Health Service.
Nursing Assistant Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Nursing Assistants to provide high-quality clinical support across multiple locations nationwide. In this role, you will work within an interdisciplinary team to provide routine and moderately complex patient care, ensuring that individuals receive compassionate and effective healthcare services. This is an open continuous announcement, allowing the agency to fill various full-time, part-time, and intermittent vacancies as they arise.
Requirements for Nursing Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to successfully pass a federal background investigation.
- Must satisfy financial suitability requirements (no delinquent federal or state tax liabilities or defaulted student loans).
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Possess valid, government-issued identification that is REAL ID-compliant.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level or equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications for Nursing Assistant
- Completion of a 4-year degree (or coursework toward a bachelor's) in a health-related field.
- Demonstrated experience with patient vital signs, specimen collection, and electronic health record documentation.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
- Prior experience in a hospital, nursing home, or outpatient clinical setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Generous annual leave accrual based on federal service years.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development in a clinical environment.
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Nursing Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Nursing Assistant Job
- Review the full announcement carefully.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to build or update your resume.
- Click the Apply Online button to complete the questionnaire and attach required documents.
- If notified, complete the USA Hire Assessments via the provided unique access link.
- Monitor your application status and check notifications in your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your hourly duties and responsibilities.
- Submit your application early, as cut-off dates for referral occur periodically.
- Double-check that all required documentation, including Indian Preference (BIA-4432) or Veteran documentation (DD214), is included to avoid loss of consideration.
- Complete the USA Hire Assessment within the required timeframe to remain eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, these positions require physical presence at specific clinical sites across the country.
Can I apply for multiple locations?
Yes, during the application process, you may select up to five locations where you are willing to work.
What happens after I apply?
Your application is reviewed for qualifications. If you meet the criteria, you may be referred to hiring managers as vacancies arise at your selected locations.