Launch Your Healthcare Career with the Indian Health Service

Are you looking for a career that combines clinical expertise with a deep commitment to community service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking compassionate, dedicated individuals to join our team as a Health Technician (Clinical Assistant). This role offers a unique opportunity to serve American Indian and Alaska Native populations while advancing your professional skills in a federal healthcare environment.

Role Overview

As a Health Technician, you will serve in a nonprofessional nursing capacity, supporting medical officers and other clinical staff. You will work in a free-standing clinic environment, interacting with patients, managing records, and performing clinical procedures within defined guidelines.

Comparison of Potential Work Environments

Location	Environment	Focus
Salem, OR	Clinical Facility	Urban/Mixed Patient Population
Warm Springs, OR	Community Clinic	Tribal Health Services
Toppenish, WA	Healthcare Unit	Rural Health Support

Job Responsibilities

Your day-to-day duties will be diverse and challenging:

Patient Support: Instructing patients, assisting with treatments, and monitoring vital signs.
Clinical Intake: Recording heights, weights, blood pressure, and pulse for patient files.
Emergency Response: Initiating Basic Life Support and responding to urgent clinical situations.
Administration: Managing patient appointments, answering calls, and ensuring accurate medical record-keeping.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $36,409 to $57,060 per year. In addition to salary, IHS employees benefit from a robust federal compensation package.

Health/Insurance: Comprehensive federal health benefits.
Retirement: Federal pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses and loan repayment assistance programs.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply through the USAJobs portal. Ensure your application includes a detailed resume, required transcripts, and any applicable veterans' or Indian preference documentation. Please complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments within the designated window to remain in consideration.

Becoming a Health Technician with the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to improving health outcomes for indigenous communities. If you possess the required clinical skills and are ready to contribute to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Health Technician (Clinical Assistant) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on indigenous healthcare. Join the Indian Health Service as a Clinical Assistant and help provide high-quality care to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Health Technician (Clinical Assistant) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Clinical Assistant) to join our team in the Portland Area. In this role, you will provide essential support to our medical staff, serving as a vital link between patients and their healthcare providers. You will handle a mix of clinical support duties, such as taking vital signs, and administrative responsibilities, including appointment scheduling and patient record maintenance. This position is ideal for those who are passionate about public health, patient advocacy, and contributing to the well-being of underserved populations.

Requirements for Health Technician (Clinical Assistant)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must pass a federal background investigation.
Medical Assistant certification must be obtained within one year of hire.
Must be able to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges.
Completion of Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must provide valid identification (REAL ID-compliant) prior to appointment.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Clinical Assistant)

Experience taking and recording vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature.
Experience in front-office medical administration, including scheduling and patient intake.
Demonstrated ability to follow clinical safety and departmental protocols.
Superior Academic Achievement (for education-based qualification).
Current Federal status for internal hiring paths.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Competitive retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
✓Participation in federal student loan repayment programs.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.

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

Application Steps for Health Technician (Clinical Assistant) Job

Complete the online application via the USAJobs portal.
Submit your resume highlighting relevant clinical and administrative experience.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts (if applicable) and preference forms.
Complete the USA Hire Assessment within the provided testing window.
Respond to the required essay questions regarding your commitment to public service.
Monitor your status through your USAJobs account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the total number of hours worked per week for each position.
Prioritize your background investigation forms; timely completion is mandatory.
Review your application for accuracy before the cutoff date to ensure it is legible and complete.
Utilize the USA Hire practice resources to familiarize yourself with the assessment format.
If claiming Indian Preference, ensure Form BIA-4432 is signed and dated correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this role?

This position is listed at the GS-4 grade level, but it has promotion potential to the GS-7 level, which is subject to management discretion and performance.

Do I need a degree to qualify?

You do not need a degree. You can qualify through a combination of specialized experience, education, or a mix of both that meets the 100% requirement criteria.

Is there a probation period?

*A: Yes, ESEP appointees typically serve a two-year trial period to ensure suitability for the role.*

Can I work remotely?

*A: This position is not eligible for telework or remote status; on-site clinical presence is required.*

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is responsible for providing federal health services to over 2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our staff is known for being creative, enthusiastic, and highly professional. We work in interdisciplinary teams to address the healthcare needs of the communities we serve.