Lead Dental Excellence: Local Chief Dentist Opportunity with the ICE Health Service Corps
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking a dedicated and experienced dental professional to serve as the Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) within the ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC). This role is critical to maintaining the health and safety of individuals in detention settings in Los Fresnos, Texas. If you are a U.S. Public Health Service officer or a CAD candidate with a passion for public health and leadership, this position offers a unique chance to shape clinical practices while serving the nation.
Job Responsibilities
As the Local Chief Dentist, you will function as both a senior clinician and an administrator. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Supervision: Leading a team of at least three dental staff members, including an additional dentist. You will manage scheduling, training, performance evaluations, and clinical mentorship.
- Clinical Leadership: Directing all dental operations for a facility with a capacity of 1,000+ detainees. You will provide routine, urgent, and emergent oral health care.
- Policy and Compliance: Serving as the subject-matter expert on dental clinic safety, infection control, and hazardous material management. You will also lead the facility through recurring independent accreditations.
- Collaboration: Working closely with IHSC leadership and regional dental consultants to refine local policies and improve overall patient outcomes.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- DDS or DMD degree from an accredited institution.
- Unrestricted dental license.
- 6+ years of clinical experience.
- 2+ years of supervisory/leadership experience.
- Active-duty eligibility (USPHS or CAD).
Candidate Comparison
| Feature | Junior Dentist | Local Chief Dentist (O-6) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Practice | Clinical focus only | Clinical + Administrative oversight |
| Supervision | Reports to a Chief | Manages multiple staff |
| Strategy | Executes tasks | Develops and implements policy |
| Accreditation | Follows guidelines | Leads accreditation preparation |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position is up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with the O-6 grade and federal pay scales. In addition to a competitive salary, officers benefit from the comprehensive support provided by the U.S. Public Health Service, including career advancement, healthcare, and retirement security.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Documentation: Ensure your Promotion CV explicitly highlights your supervisory history.
- Be Precise: Use the exact file labels requested in the job announcement to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Follow Up: After applying, regularly check your status on the USAJOBS portal.
This role is more than just a dental position; it is a vital leadership post that ensures the health and humanity of those in government custody. If you are ready to combine your surgical expertise with strategic management, we encourage you to apply and join the IHSC team in Los Fresnos, Texas.
Why This Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Matters
Lead dental excellence at the forefront of national security. The ICE Health Service Corps is seeking a dedicated Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) to supervise clinical operations and provide life-changing oral care in Los Fresnos, Texas.
Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is hiring an experienced Local Chief Dentist to lead dental services at a complex facility in Los Fresnos, Texas. This O-6 billet is a high-impact, supervisory role requiring a strategic leader who can manage multi-provider scheduling, staff development, and clinical compliance while maintaining the highest standards of oral health care for a diverse patient population.
Requirements for Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service officer or a Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidate.
- Hold a DDS or DMD degree from an ADA-accredited program.
- Possess an active, unrestricted dental license in any U.S. state, D.C., or territory.
- Minimum of 6 years of clinical dental experience.
- Minimum of 2 years of formal supervisory, leadership, or practice management experience.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a high-risk security clearance.
- Continuous Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Willingness to travel up to 30% for mission-critical assignments.
Preferred Qualifications for Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Demonstrated expertise in oral surgery, periodontics, and endodontics.
- Proven experience preparing clinics for recurring independent accreditations.
- Experience managing hazardous materials and radiation safety protocols in a clinical environment.
- Strong background in electronic health record (EHR) management and data reporting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and specialized dental practice software.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the U.S. Public Health Service
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits package
- ✓Support for national clinical quality initiatives
- ✓Direct impact on public health and national security infrastructure
💡 How to Apply Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Local Chief Dentist (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review all required documents, including your USPHS Promotion CV and three most recent COERs.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal for interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your USPHS Promotion CV explicitly details both your clinical experience and your leadership roles.
- Double-check that all three professional references are current and ready to provide a recommendation.
- Submit early to allow time for troubleshooting any technical issues with the application portal.
- Clearly label documents (e.g., 'Diploma/GED', 'USPHS Promotion CV') as specified in the announcement instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this O-6 Billet?
This position is strictly open to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates.
What is the primary mission of the Local Chief Dentist at IHSC?
The incumbent manages dental clinic operations, provides direct care to detainees, supervises dental staff, and ensures compliance with clinical and accreditation standards.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the position may require up to 30% travel (TDY) to support mission-critical staffing needs.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) operates a complex health care system providing medical, dental, and mental health services to detainees. As the primary investigative arm of the DHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requires high-level clinical leadership to manage the unique challenges of a mobile and diverse population. The dental program is an essential component of this infrastructure, ensuring that patients receive timely, high-quality care that meets rigorous federal and professional standards.