Become a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider with the ICE Health Service Corps
Are you a dedicated mental health professional looking to leverage your expertise in a high-impact, mission-driven environment? The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is currently seeking a motivated Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (APP) to support the behavioral health needs of detainees in Los Fresnos, Texas. This unique position offers a challenging career path for those committed to public health and the safety of our communities.
About the ICE Health Service Corps
The IHSC provides medical and mental health care to detainees within the U.S. immigration system. Operating under the Department of Homeland Security, the IHSC is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to delivering equitable and high-quality care across various detention facilities. Staff members serve in an austere yet highly professional environment, working alongside a diverse team of clinicians, administrative staff, and commissioned officers to manage patient health effectively.
Job Responsibilities
As a Psychiatric APP, your primary responsibility is to ensure that patients receive appropriate psychiatric evaluations, treatment plans, and continuous care. Your daily duties will include:
- Conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment monitoring.
- Managing medications according to the IHSC formulary.
- Providing telepsychiatry and in-person emergency intervention.
- Documenting patient progress in compliance with strict healthcare standards.
- Mentoring newer staff and participating in program development initiatives.
- Maintaining patient confidentiality and fostering a therapeutic environment for detainees.
Position Requirements
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | USPHS Officers / Call to Active Duty (CAD) Candidates |
| Licensure | Unrestricted state license (PMHNP, PA, or Pharmacist) |
| Certifications | ANCC, NCCPA, or BPS (Psychiatric Pharmacy) |
| Experience (O-4) | Minimum 6 months of psychiatric clinical experience |
| Experience (O-5) | 3-5 years of psychiatric clinical experience |
Candidates must also maintain basic readiness status and the ability to perform physical tasks such as CPR, emergency response, and mobility in a facility setting.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the O-4 or O-5 pay scale, reaching up to $150,000 annually. Beyond the salary, serving within the USPHS framework provides access to robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning, and extensive opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
How to Apply
To apply, ensure your application package includes your official USPHS Promotion CV, professional licensure, board certification documents, and current performance reports (COERs). Applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal before the September 30, 2027 deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Working for the ICE Health Service Corps is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and clinical excellence. If you are a qualified psychiatric professional ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in a vulnerable population, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Advance your career in psychiatric medicine while serving a vital role in national public health. Join the ICE Health Service Corps as a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider.
Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a skilled Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (APP) for a non-supervisory role based in Los Fresnos, Texas. This position, designated for O-4/O-5 billets, is exclusively for U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates. You will provide essential psychiatric care, including evaluations, treatment planning, and medication management, to detainees within the federal immigration system, working alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
Requirements for Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or a qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidate.
- For O-4: Minimum 6 months of full-time experience as a Psychiatric APP in direct patient care.
- For O-5: Minimum 3-5 years of full-time experience as a Psychiatric APP in direct patient care.
- Active, unrestricted license as a PMHNP, PA, or Pharmacist (as applicable) in any state, D.C., or U.S. territory.
- National Board Certification (ANCC for PMHNP, NCCPA for PA, or BPS for Pharmacist).
- Ability to obtain DEA registration for controlled substances within 90 days of start date.
- Current CPR/BLS certification.
- Must be able to pass a critical-sensitive/high-risk background investigation and drug testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Experience in correctional healthcare settings.
- Bilingual communication skills (Spanish/English preferred).
- Knowledge of forensic psychiatry concepts and principles.
- Certification as a Correctional Healthcare Professional (CCHP).
- Familiarity with IHSC policies, NCCHC standards, and PBNDS requirements.
- Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Psychiatry (for PAs).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure up to $150,000.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package through the USPHS Commissioned Corps.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical peer review.
- ✓Engagement in meaningful, high-impact public service.
- ✓Supportive multidisciplinary work environment.
💡 How to Apply Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Psychiatric Advanced Practice Provider (O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Review the specific requirements for either O-4 or O-5 billets.
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare all required documents, including your USPHS Promotion CV, COERs, and licensure.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire within the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application and required documentation by the closing date of September 30, 2027.
- Monitor your email for updates regarding your application status.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your USPHS Promotion CV clearly highlights your direct psychiatric clinical experience.
- Double-check that all licensure documents are current and unrestricted.
- If you lack current DEA registration, include a plan for obtaining it within 90 days as per guidelines.
- Proofread your cover letter and tailor it to address your interest in the Los Fresnos location.
- Contact the HR representative at least 24 hours prior to the deadline if you encounter technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is open exclusively to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officers and those qualified for Call to Active Duty (CAD) status.
What is the primary work environment?
The role is based in a detention facility in Los Fresnos, Texas, providing mental health care in a correctional/detention setting.
Is travel required for this job?
Yes, there is a travel requirement of up to 20% annually for meetings, trainings, or as-needed operational support.