Become a Pediatric Dentist with the Indian Health Service

Are you a dental professional looking for a career that combines high-level clinical practice with community service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is inviting passionate Pediatric Dentists to join our team in Whiteriver, Arizona. This is a unique opportunity to provide essential oral healthcare to underserved populations while building a rewarding career within the federal system.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be the primary provider for pediatric dental services. Responsibilities include:

Conducting clinical and radiographic examinations for children under 18.
Developing individualized treatment plans based on comprehensive diagnoses.
Managing difficult behavioral and congenital dental cases.
Coordinating care between dental hygienists, assistants, and other clinical specialists.
Providing care in both clinic settings and operating rooms as necessary.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several key criteria:

Education: A DMD or DDS degree from an accredited institution.
Licensure: An unrestricted, current license to practice dentistry.
Experience: Extensive experience performing professional dentistry, including specialized experience in pediatrics.
Suitability: Successful passage of a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers an exceptionally competitive federal compensation package.

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$123,077 – $315,000 per year
Benefits	Comprehensive Health, Retirement, Paid Leave
Loan Repayment	Eligible for competitive IHS/NHSC programs
Relocation	Incentives may be available for qualified candidates

How to Apply

The application process is conducted through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and clearly reflects your specialized experience. Remember, documentation regarding your licensure and education is critical. Follow all instructions on the official vacancy announcement to ensure your application is submitted on time.

Working for the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to health equity and community wellness. If you have the drive and expertise to provide exceptional pediatric dental care in a unique and supportive environment, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey today and help us improve health outcomes across the nation.

Why This Dentist (Pediatrics) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on the oral health of the Native American community in Whiteriver, Arizona, with a competitive salary of up to $315,000.

Dentist (Pediatrics) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Pediatric Dentist to provide comprehensive clinical care at the Whiteriver Service Unit. This role is ideal for a compassionate professional committed to interdisciplinary healthcare and serving American Indian and Alaska Native populations. You will join an innovative team, providing essential dental diagnostics, treatment, and preventative care to pediatric patients in a community-focused environment.

Requirements for Dentist (Pediatrics)

U.S. Citizenship.
Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from an ADA/CODA-accredited school.
Successful completion of National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE).
Current, full, and unrestricted dental license in any U.S. state, D.C., or territory.
Minimum of one year of specialized professional dental experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Three years of specialized experience OR a completed 3-year residency program for GS-13 level.
Ability to pass a federal background investigation.
Financial suitability review.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Dentist (Pediatrics)

Completion of an advanced residency in pediatric dentistry.
Proven expertise in managing pediatric dental cases in clinical or operating room settings.
Experience working within interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Strong communication skills for patient and family education.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Student Loan Repayment Program eligibility
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance
✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
✓Retirement savings plans
✓Relocation incentives (subject to availability)
✓Professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration

💡 How to Apply Dentist (Pediatrics) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Dentist (Pediatrics) Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that highlights your specialized pediatric dentistry experience.
Click the Apply Online button and answer the required questionnaires.
Upload necessary documentation, including transcripts and licensure proof.
Complete the USA Hire assessment if notified.
Submit your application by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Clearly list your dental hours per week in your resume.
Submit official transcripts or a detailed course list early.
Double-check your licensure expiration dates.
Prioritize the background investigation forms if you are selected.
Use the 'Track this application' feature in your USAJOBS account to monitor your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Pediatric Dentist at the Whiteriver Service Unit?

You will diagnose, treat, and provide preventative care for pediatric patients, including managing complex cases and potentially coordinating care in an operating room.

Is relocation assistance available for this position?

Relocation incentives or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) may be authorized based on availability and approval.

Are there opportunities for student loan repayment?

Yes, the IHS offers a competitive student loan repayment program for qualifying health disciplines, subject to funding availability.

What is the timeline for this position?

The announcement closes on September 25, 2026. All application materials must be received by this date.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?

Yes, U.S. citizenship is a mandatory requirement for this role.

How are applications evaluated?

Applicants are evaluated based on their resume, questionnaire responses, and potential USA Hire assessment scores.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service is a vital component of the Department of Health and Human Services. Our mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. By joining the Whiteriver Service Unit, you are becoming part of a nationwide network of healthcare providers who are dedicated to making a difference through empathy, innovation, and clinical excellence.