Become a Finance Officer with the Indian Health Service in Tucson

Are you a financial strategist looking for a role that combines professional rigor with a commitment to public service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a highly qualified Finance Officer to join the Financial Management Branch at the Tucson Area Office (TAO). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the financial health of an organization dedicated to improving the wellness of American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Job Responsibilities

In this high-level role, your day-to-day activities will revolve around the following:

Budgetary Management: Planning and scheduling annual Operating Budgets and Spend Plans.
Financial Reporting: Submitting regular, recurring data for the Area Director and Executive Director to facilitate informed management decisions.
Technical Assistance: Providing financial expertise to Tribes regarding the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA).
System Oversight: Adapting accounting systems and coordinating overall financial policies to ensure compliance and efficiency.
SME Role: Serving as a primary Subject Matter Expert on financial-related affairs for the office.

Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Financial Roles

Feature	Private Sector Finance	IHS Finance Officer
Primary Goal	Profit Maximization	Mission-Driven Health Outcomes
Funding Source	Revenue/Investors	Congressional Appropriations
Regulations	GAAP/SOX	Federal Budgetary Laws/ISDEAA
Scope	Corporate Entities	Tribal Nation Partnerships

Requirements

To be considered for the GS-13 grade level, applicants must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level. This experience must include conducting budget reviews, performing program audits, and managing financial operations. Additionally, candidates must:

Be a U.S. Citizen.
Possess strong financial integrity (no delinquent federal or state tax liabilities).
Successfully complete a federal background investigation.
Be prepared to provide a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $108,455 to $140,994 per year, depending on qualifications and federal pay regulations.

Benefits

Working for the federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:

Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Access to comprehensive health insurance programs.
Accrual of annual leave and sick leave.
Opportunities for ongoing professional growth within the Department of Health and Human Services.

Application Tips

Read the Announcement: Ensure you understand the specific requirements regarding the USA Hire assessment.
Documentation: Have your DD214 or BIA-4432 (if applicable) ready before starting.
Clarity: Use your resume to clearly articulate your experience in financial planning and budget execution.
Timeliness: Submit your application well before the July 14, 2026, deadline to account for potential technical issues.

Serving as a Finance Officer for the Tucson Area Office is more than a job—it is a commitment to supporting the health and sovereignty of tribal communities. If you have the experience and the drive to excel in federal financial management, apply today to start your journey with the IHS.

Why This Finance Officer Job Matters

Advance your career in financial leadership while making a tangible impact on the health outcomes of American Indian and Alaska Native communities in the vibrant city of Tucson.

Finance Officer Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Finance Officer to join the Tucson Area Office (TAO). In this role, you will serve as a Subject Matter Expert, orchestrating budgetary activities and financial strategies that directly support healthcare services for tribal nations. You will be responsible for overseeing financial reporting, managing operating budgets, and ensuring effective funding allocations while collaborating with executive leadership to achieve organizational goals.

Requirements for Finance Officer

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must pass a federal background investigation.
Must undergo financial suitability review and maintain good standing with creditors.
Selective Service Registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must complete a probationary period (potentially including a one-year supervisory/managerial period).
Must be able to provide two forms of identification, including a REAL ID-compliant document if using a state-issued ID.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications for Finance Officer

Extensive experience in preparing financial plans and conducting program audits.
Proven success in providing technical budgetary advice to leadership.
Demonstrated ability to manage and adapt complex accounting systems.
Experience navigating ISDEAA (Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act) financial requirements.
Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with Tribal partners and Service Unit Directors.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Accrual of annual and sick leave based on length of federal service.
✓Health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Finance Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Finance Officer Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Submit your resume and supporting documentation online.
Complete the mandatory application questionnaire.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding the USA Hire Assessment.
Complete all required assessments within the designated window.
Track your application progress through your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details the number of hours worked per week for each position held.
Prioritize the completion of background investigation forms within five days of request to avoid processing delays.
Review your financial history before applying, as unresolved debts can affect suitability.
Practice using the USA Hire assessment resources provided by the OPM prior to the testing window.
Tailor your resume to highlight experience in budget reviews, program audits, and financial technical assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Finance Officer in the Tucson Area Office?

You will serve as a financial advisor and expert, managing the Area Office's financial reporting, budget development, spend plans, and coordination of financial objectives.

Is telework available for this position?

No, this position is not eligible for telework.

What is the purpose of the USA Hire assessment?

It is an evaluation tool to measure core competencies such as problem-solving, resilience, and accountability; it is a mandatory part of the qualification process.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for this position, depending on agency needs.*

What is the significance of the background investigation?

*A: It is a standard procedure to verify your suitability for federal service, covering identity, employment history, and financial responsibility.*

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that provides comprehensive health services to nearly 2 million people. Working at the IHS means becoming part of an interdisciplinary team that is creative, compassionate, and solution-oriented. As a Finance Officer, your work ensures that funds are effectively managed and directed to support these vital medical services.