Launch Your Career as a Medical Records Technician with the Indian Health Service

Are you a detail-oriented professional looking to merge your passion for healthcare with a meaningful federal career? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking talented individuals to fill Medical Records Technician (Coder) roles within the Pine Ridge Service Unit. These positions offer a unique opportunity to serve Native American and Alaska Native communities while building a robust career within the U.S. Federal Government.

Job Responsibilities

As a Medical Records Technician, your primary role involves managing the life cycle of medical information. You will:

Assign accurate diagnosis and procedure codes based on clinical documentation.
Abstract vital patient information for claims and administrative purposes.
Collaborate with physicians to ensure operative reports are complete and valid.
Support quality assurance initiatives to maintain accreditation standards.

Comparison of Qualification Levels

Level	Experience/Education Requirement
GS-4	1 Year general experience or 2 years college
GS-5	1 Year specialized experience or 4 years college
GS-6	1 Year specialized experience with data entry/systems focus
GS-7	1 Year specialized experience in clinical coding evaluation

Requirements and Qualifications

To be eligible, you must demonstrate a minimum of one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. For those aiming for the GS-08 potential, obtaining a CPC or AHIMA certification is a mandatory condition. Additionally, all applicants must pass a rigorous background investigation and financial suitability screening.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $37,193 to $65,599 annually. Beyond the base pay, the IHS offers a comprehensive total compensation package, including:

Recruitment/Relocation incentives (up to 25% of base pay).
Leave accrual based on federal service time.
Comprehensive health, life, and retirement insurance options.

How to Apply

The application process is handled exclusively through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure you have your resume, transcripts, and any applicable veterans' preference documentation ready. The process includes a competency-based assessment—be sure to complete this promptly once you receive the access link.

If you are ready to apply your technical coding skills to a mission that matters, we encourage you to apply. The work you do today directly affects the healthcare access and quality for families across Pine Ridge, Kyle, and Belcourt. Start your application today and join a team that values service, integrity, and clinical precision.

Why This Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job Matters

Transform healthcare delivery for Native communities—join the Indian Health Service as a Medical Records Technician (Coder) and make a lasting impact.

Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking detail-oriented professionals to join our Pine Ridge Service Unit. As a Medical Records Technician (Coder), you will play a vital role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of clinical documentation. This position is essential for supporting our mission of providing high-quality healthcare to American Indians and Alaska Natives across locations in North Dakota and South Dakota. You will handle medical record coding, data abstraction, and support healthcare providers, ensuring our medical systems remain robust and compliant.

Requirements for Medical Records Technician (Coder)

U.S. Citizenship
Must pass a federal background investigation
Must undergo a financial suitability review
Must meet the IHS Employee Immunization Policy requirements
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Must hold a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification
Certification as a Certified Coding Specialist (CPC or equivalent) required for GS-08 promotion potential

Preferred Qualifications for Medical Records Technician (Coder)

Proficiency in ICD-10 coding and medical terminology
Experience with automated health record systems and encoder software
Strong ability to collaborate with medical staff for documentation accuracy
Demonstrated experience in quality assurance and medical record abstraction

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives up to 25%
✓Federal leave accrual based on service years
✓Access to Federal health insurance and retirement plans
✓Opportunity for career advancement and professional development

💡 How to Apply Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Medical Records Technician (Coder) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details.
Prepare a comprehensive resume including hours worked per week and salary history.
Apply online through the official portal before the closing date.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the provided testing window.
Submit all supporting documentation, including transcripts and Indian Preference forms if applicable.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment data is captured.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Ensure your resume clearly quantifies your experience (e.g., hours per week) to meet GS-level requirements.
Check your email regularly for assessment links after submitting your application.
Proofread your responses to the optional essay questions for clarity and professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What locations are available for this position?

Positions are available in Belcourt, North Dakota; Kyle, South Dakota; and Pine Ridge, South Dakota.

Is a coding certification mandatory?

While you can enter at lower GS levels without it, certification (CPC or AHIMA) is required for the GS-08 promotion potential.

What is the IHS Immunization Policy?

Employees working in IHS healthcare facilities must comply with vaccination requirements to protect patients, subject to specific exemption policies.

Can I telework?

This position is not listed as telework-eligible at this time.

How often is the announcement reviewed?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with cut-off dates every Friday.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service is a specialized healthcare system under 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 our team, you become part of a nationwide network of dedicated professionals committed to excellence, compassion, and innovation in healthcare delivery.