Launch Your Career as a Contact Representative with the Indian Health Service
Are you looking for a career that combines administrative excellence with meaningful community service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is looking for a talented Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) to join the Pawnee Indian Health Center team. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to directly assist American Indians and Alaska Natives in securing the healthcare they need.
Job Responsibilities
As a Benefits Coordinator, your primary goal is to ensure patients can access various healthcare programs. Key duties include:
- Patient Advocacy: Assisting families with applications for Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.
- Eligibility Verification: Conducting interviews to identify and verify program eligibility.
- Liaison Work: Coordinating with outside federal, state, and tribal agencies to resolve enrollment hurdles.
- Data Management: Maintaining accurate records while ensuring the strictest privacy and confidentiality of sensitive medical information.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position is structured within the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, providing a clear path for professional growth.
| Grade Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-6 to GS-8 | $45,409 - $72,644 per year |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must demonstrate strong attention to detail and a commitment to public service. You will need to:
- Pass a federal background investigation.
- Provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
- Comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy.
- Demonstrate financial responsibility as part of the security screening.
Benefits of Federal Service
Working for the IHS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including access to top-tier health insurance, retirement planning, and competitive paid leave. You may also be eligible for leave accrual credit based on your prior federal or military experience.
Application Tips for Success
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly state your hours per week for all previous positions to help HR determine your qualification level.
- Don't Forget the Assessments: The USA Hire Assessment is a mandatory part of the process. Monitor your email closely after submission.
- Prepare Your Documents: Have your DD214 or Tribal documentation ready if you are claiming specific hiring preferences.
If you are ready to make a positive impact in the Pawnee community, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to grow your administrative skills while supporting the vital health mission of the Indian Health Service. Submit your application by the closing date to join our team of dedicated professionals.
Why This Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in healthcare administration and become a vital advocate for patients at the Pawnee Indian Health Center.
Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) to join our team in Pawnee, Oklahoma. In this role, you will act as a bridge between patients and essential healthcare resources, helping individuals navigate complex eligibility requirements for programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. You will serve as a patient advocate, assisting with applications, resolving coverage issues, and ensuring our community has seamless access to the care they deserve.
Requirements for Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Successful completion of a federal background investigation.
- Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
- Compliance with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy for vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Possession of a REAL ID-compliant identification card.
- Must meet financial suitability requirements, including good standing with creditors.
- Must successfully complete the USA Hire Assessment.
Preferred Qualifications for Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator)
- Experience interpreting government or private-sector benefit regulations.
- Strong interviewing and interpersonal skills to verify patient eligibility.
- Proficiency in researching and resolving complex enrollment or benefit denial issues.
- Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Previous experience working with federal or state health programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employee health and insurance programs.
- ✓Accrual of annual and sick leave based on federal service years.
- ✓Professional development through interdisciplinary teamwork.
- ✓Potential credit for previous non-federal experience toward annual leave accrual.
💡 How to Apply Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contact Representative (Benefits Coordinator) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare your resume according to USAJOBS guidelines.
- Click the Apply Online button to begin your application.
- Answer the required questionnaires and attach all necessary documentation (e.g., transcripts, DD214).
- Complete the USA Hire Assessment within the specified window.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details the total number of hours worked per week for each position.
- Submit all required documents (e.g., BIA-4432, SF-50) by the closing date to avoid disqualification.
- Allow ample time to complete the USA Hire Assessment; set aside approximately two hours.
- Review your application for accuracy, as false statements may lead to removal from consideration.
- Check your USAJOBS account notifications regularly for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Contact Representative at the IHS?
You will serve as a liaison and advocate, helping patients identify, apply for, and maintain eligibility for healthcare benefit programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this position requires an on-site presence at the Pawnee Indian Health Center.
What happens if I miss the USA Hire Assessment deadline?
If the assessment is not completed within the assigned timeframe, your application will be found ineligible.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is a specialized agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. We are committed to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. Our staff members are creative problem-solvers who work in interdisciplinary teams to provide compassionate care in a supportive, community-oriented environment.