Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Health Technician (Paramedic) with the IHS

Are you a highly skilled Paramedic looking to transition your emergency medical talents into a public service career? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking dedicated professionals to join their team in serving the healthcare needs of American Indians and Alaska Natives. These roles provide a unique opportunity to practice advanced emergency medicine while supporting vital communities.

About the Indian Health Service (IHS)

The Indian Health Service is a federal 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 part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team that values creative approaches to complex healthcare challenges. Joining the IHS means committing to a mission that changes lives every single day.

Job Responsibilities

As a Health Technician (Paramedic), your primary objective is to serve as a critical care extender in the emergency medical arena. Key responsibilities include:

Emergency Response: Rapidly identifying and treating trauma and medical emergencies.
Patient Care: Conducting thorough medical assessments using advanced knowledge of body systems and emergency techniques.
Patient Handling: Safely moving and transporting patients to treatment facilities.
Equipment Maintenance: Conducting regular safety inspections of emergency vehicles and life-support equipment.
Technical Support: Assisting medical officers and providers with diagnostic tests and patient stabilization.

Comparison: Grade Levels GS-5, GS-6, and GS-7

Feature	GS-5	GS-6	GS-7
Experience Req.	1 Year Specialized	1 Year Specialized	1 Year Specialized
Core Focus	Vital signs & basic support	Independent assessment	Advanced trauma treatment
Education	4-year degree option	N/A	Graduate ed. option

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and possess an unrestricted Paramedic license. Candidates must also be able to pass a federal background check and meet financial suitability standards. Because this role involves contact with Indian children, strict compliance with safety background requirements is mandatory.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $40,736 to $65,599 per year. In addition to base pay, federal employees enjoy:

Comprehensive Health Insurance
Structured Retirement Planning
Accrued Annual and Sick Leave
Stable, clear career progression pathways

How to Apply

Prepare: Update your USAJOBS profile with a detailed resume.
Verify: Gather copies of your current Paramedic license and transcripts.
Apply: Visit the USAJOBS portal, answer the required questionnaires, and submit your application package before the closing date of October 27, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the benefit of the USA Hire assessment? A: It helps the agency evaluate your specific competencies for the role. Completion is mandatory for consideration.

Q: Is relocation assistance offered? A: Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized based on agency needs and candidate qualifications.

If you are a passionate Paramedic ready to bring your clinical skills to the Indian Health Service, we encourage you to apply. You will join a team that values your commitment to excellence and your desire to improve public health outcomes in meaningful ways.

Why This Health Technician (Paramedic) Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service and provide critical, life-saving emergency care to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Health Technician (Paramedic) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated Health Technicians (Paramedics) to deliver advanced emergency medical support. In this role, you will be on the front lines of healthcare, providing urgent response, trauma treatment, and medical transport for patients across designated service areas in North Dakota and South Dakota. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to utilize your advanced clinical skills in a mission-driven environment where your work directly improves the health outcomes of indigenous populations.

Requirements for Health Technician (Paramedic)

Must possess a current, unrestricted Paramedic certification or licensure from any U.S. State.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Successful completion of a federal background investigation.
Must meet financial suitability requirements, including maintaining good standing with creditors.
Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must hold a valid, REAL ID-compliant identification document.
Must be able to perform physical demands including lifting, carrying, and maneuvering patients.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Paramedic)

Prior experience working within a federal health care environment.
Demonstrated ability to perform independent clinical assessments using knowledge of topographic anatomy.
Proficiency in advanced trauma and medical emergency stabilization techniques.
Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with diverse patient populations.
Experience maintaining and inspecting complex medical emergency equipment and transport vehicles.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal competitive salary with annual pay adjustments.
✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
✓Federal health insurance plans and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits, including TSP (Thrift Savings Plan).
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
✓Opportunities for professional development and interdisciplinary teamwork.

💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Paramedic) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Health Technician (Paramedic) Job

Log into your USAJOBS account and upload your resume and required certifications.
Submit your online application and complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire.
If prompted, complete the USA Hire assessments within the designated timeframe.
Upload proof of Paramedic licensure and any applicable veterans' or Indian preference documentation.
Monitor your application status and check for email notifications regarding interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume lists specific duties, hours worked per week, and dates of employment.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Double-check that your Paramedic license is current and clearly documented in your application.
Review the USA Hire assessment practice resources before taking the test.
Include a copy of your transcripts if you are substituting education for experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if my Paramedic license is from a different state?

Yes, the requirement is an unrestricted Paramedic certification or licensure from any U.S. state.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, the position involves responding to emergencies in the field and transporting patients, which requires travel and mobility.

Are these positions full-time?

Yes, these are professional, mission-critical roles within the Indian Health Service.