Lead as a Supervisory Physician with the Indian Health Service
Are you a dedicated physician looking to bridge the gap in healthcare equity? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a talented and experienced Supervisory Physician to step into a leadership role as a Clinical Director. This position is perfect for medical professionals who are not only expert clinicians but also visionary administrators who want to improve the quality of care for over two million American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Physician, you will act as the Clinical Director, overseeing a multidisciplinary Division of Clinical Services. Key responsibilities include:
- Operations Management: Directing departments such as Primary Care, Dental, Radiology, and Behavioral Health.
- Leadership: Mentoring medical staff, managing performance, and overseeing recruitment and workforce development.
- Quality & Compliance: Leading medical audits, credentialing, and risk-management programs to maintain accreditation standards.
- Policy Implementation: Developing and enforcing clinical policies to ensure high-quality patient care.
- Community Collaboration: Partnering with tribal governments to implement health initiatives that meet unique community needs.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level role, you must meet specific federal standards:
- Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from an accredited institution.
- Licensure: You must hold a full, active, and unrestricted license in a US state, DC, or territory.
- Experience: A minimum of 1 year of supervised clinical training, with 5+ years of specialized graduate training for the GS-15 level.
- Background: Ability to pass a high-risk security investigation and fingerprint check.
Comparison: Staff Physician vs. Supervisory Physician
| Feature | Staff Physician | Supervisory Physician |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Direct Patient Care | Clinical Strategy & Operations |
| Supervision Level | Independent | Managerial/Supervisory |
| Admin Duties | Minimal | Significant (Budgets/Policy) |
| Team Leadership | None/Low | High (Dept Heads/Staff) |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this role is highly competitive, reflecting the complexity and responsibility of the position.
- Salary Range: $145,000 – $335,000 per year.
- Additional Benefits: Potential recruitment and relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
Benefits
Employees of the IHS receive a robust federal benefits package:
- Health insurance, life insurance, and retirement plans.
- Accrual of annual leave based on federal service years.
- Access to student loan repayment programs through IHS, NHSC, or HRSA.
Application Tips
- Resume Focus: Since SMEs only review the first two pages, prioritize your most relevant executive experience at the start of your resume.
- Clarity: Clearly state the hours worked per week for every position listed to ensure your specialized experience is counted.
- Documentation: Don't wait for a request—submit your transcripts and license proof early in the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the security clearance for this role? *A: This position is designated as High Risk (HR), requiring a thorough background investigation.
Q: Can I telework? *A: This position does not currently offer remote or telework options.
If you are ready to combine your clinical expertise with administrative excellence, the Indian Health Service provides a unique career path that is both professionally challenging and personally rewarding. Apply before September 22, 2026, to take the next step in your medical career.
Why This Supervisory Physician Job Matters
Lead the future of indigenous health care as a Supervisory Physician and Clinical Director with the Indian Health Service.
Supervisory Physician Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Supervisory Physician to serve as a Clinical Director across multiple locations. In this high-impact leadership role, you will be responsible for the comprehensive management and integration of clinical services, including primary care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and diagnostic departments. You will lead interdisciplinary medical teams, manage complex healthcare operations, and collaborate with tribal communities to improve health outcomes for American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Requirements for Supervisory Physician
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine from an accredited US or Canadian institution.
- Current, active, full, and unrestricted medical license from a US state, territory, or DC.
- Minimum of one year of supervised clinical internship or residency training.
- For GS-15 level: Minimum of 5 years of specialized graduate training or equivalent executive experience.
- US Citizenship.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959).
- Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Board certification in the relevant specialty.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Physician
- Proven experience directing complex healthcare delivery systems.
- Demonstrated success in managing medical budgets, contracts, and facility needs.
- Experience working with tribal governments and community health programs.
- Strong background in quality improvement, medical accreditation, and risk management.
- Expertise in leading and mentoring interdisciplinary medical and administrative staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Competitive salary range with potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Potential eligibility for student loan repayment programs through IHS or NHSC.
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on total federal service.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Physician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Physician Job
- Prepare your resume, specifically highlighting leadership and clinical experience.
- Create or sign in to your USAJOBS.gov account.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach required documentation, including medical transcripts and license verification.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 22, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- SMEs review only the first two pages of your resume; focus your most impactful accomplishments there.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for every position.
- Upload copies of your medical transcripts early, even if they are unofficial.
- Clearly label your license information and expiration dates.
- If you are claiming Indian Preference, ensure you include the correctly signed Form BIA-4432.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is board certification required?
Yes, board certification in your specialty is required. If you have a lapse or are in the process of certification, you must provide proof of active pursuit toward certification.
Are there student loan repayment options?
Yes, IHS and NHSC offer competitive loan repayment programs for qualifying health disciplines, though this is a separate process from the initial hiring.
What happens if I don't submit my transcripts?
You are encouraged to submit transcripts during the application phase. While official copies are required prior to an official offer, failure to provide necessary documentation may result in loss of consideration.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within 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. We operate in a collaborative environment that values innovation, compassion, and community-centered problem solving.