Advance Your Career: Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist at the Indian Health Service
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for healthcare administration and leadership? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is looking for a talented Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist to join the Western Oregon Service Unit in Salem. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team while ensuring high-quality health data management for the communities we serve.
Job Responsibilities
As a supervisor, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Managing the medical records administration program to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Overseeing medical coding activities, including ICD-10, CPT, and DRG assignment.
- Supervising a team of coders and administrative staff, which includes training, performance evaluation, and daily workflow management.
- Advising clinical leadership on documentation integrity and financial revenue cycle performance.
- Auditing medical records to maintain accreditation standards.
Comparison: General vs. Specialized Requirements
| Requirement Type | Focus Area | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Requirement | Education/Training | Verify foundational knowledge |
| Specialized Experience | Practical Application | Confirm ability to perform duties |
| Supervisory Ability | Leadership Potential | Demonstrate team management skill |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-9 position, candidates must meet specific criteria regarding education, professional certification, and experience. You must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the federal service. Additionally, selected candidates must maintain professional certifications in Health Information Management and Medical Coding.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $66,505 to $86,461 per year. This compensation reflects the professional responsibility required to manage medical records programs and lead staff within a federal healthcare setting.
Benefits
IHS employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Federal Health and Life Insurance.
- Retirement plans (FERS).
- Leave programs (Annual and Sick).
- Student Loan Repayment (LRP) opportunities (based on agency funding and priorities).
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Remember, the subject matter experts only look at the first two pages. Make every sentence count.
- Documentation: Have your transcripts and certifications ready to upload, even if unofficial copies are accepted initially.
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you clearly state your preference status (e.g., Indian Preference, Veteran's Preference) at the time of application.
This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to the well-being of Native American populations through efficient, high-standard health records management. If you are ready to lead and grow within the federal system, apply today.
Why This Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist Job Matters
Lead vital healthcare documentation teams in the Pacific Northwest—advance your career while directly impacting the quality of care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist in Salem, Oregon. This role is pivotal in managing the medical records administration program within the Western Oregon Service Unit. You will provide strategic leadership, supervise staff, ensure coding accuracy, and maintain compliance with stringent regulatory and accreditation standards, all while fostering a professional, mission-driven environment.
Requirements for Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must pass a federal background investigation.
- Required registration for the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Must be able to pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must hold or obtain RHIT or RHIA certification within one year of hire.
- Must hold or obtain CCS or CPC certification within one year of hire.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level or equivalent.
- Requires a one-year supervisory/managerial probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist
- Proven experience in managing ICD-10, CPT/HCPCS, and DRG assignment processes.
- Demonstrated ability to audit medical records for regulatory compliance.
- Strong leadership skills in training, mentoring, and supervising healthcare administrative teams.
- Expertise in developing and implementing department-wide medical records policies.
- Advanced education in health information management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal government health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
- ✓Access to Student Loan Repayment Programs (LRP) for qualifying health disciplines.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Medical Records Administrative Specialist Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a detailed resume focusing on the first two pages as the primary evaluation source.
- Upload required documents including transcripts and certifications.
- Complete the online eligibility questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume's first two pages on specialized experience, as this is all the subject matter experts will review.
- Clearly define your role and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Ensure your transcripts are legible and include all course details.
- Double-check your eligibility documentation for Indian Preference or Veterans Preference.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications are required for this role?
You must hold or obtain a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Administrator (RHIA) certification, along with a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential within one year of employment.
How does the evaluation process work?
The process uses a multi-hurdle system. First, HR screens for minimum eligibility, then a panel of subject matter experts reviews the first two pages of your resume to verify your technical experience.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates at the agency's discretion.
What is the deadline for this application?
All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on September 9, 2026.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. We are a nationwide organization of healthcare professionals dedicated to meeting the individual health needs of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our culture is built on service, compassion, and innovation, and we pride ourselves on being an interdisciplinary team that thrives on problem-solving.