Providing Mental Health Excellence: Career Opportunities with the ICE Health Service Corps
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a vital role in the health and well-being of individuals within the immigration detention system. As a Behavioral Health Provider, you have the unique opportunity to provide high-quality, evidence-based care in a challenging environment that requires resilience, clinical expertise, and a commitment to public service. This role is a key component of the Department of Homeland Security's broader mission to secure the nation while ensuring the humane treatment of those in custody.
Job Responsibilities
As a Behavioral Health Provider, your daily tasks will be diverse and highly clinical. Key responsibilities include:
- Clinical Assessment: Conducting evaluations and diagnosing mental health conditions for detained non-citizens.
- Treatment Planning: Developing and executing evidenced-based counseling and psychotherapy plans, whether in-person or via telehealth.
- Multidisciplinary Coordination: Working closely with physicians, custody staff, and legal teams to address suicide risk, care for transgender individuals, and other specialized needs.
- Case Management: Facilitating referrals to higher levels of psychiatric care when necessary and maintaining records for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI).
- Policy and Training: Serving as a field expert, training staff on behavioral health initiatives, and participating in peer reviews.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement Type | Psychologists | Social Workers |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Doctoral Degree | Master's Degree |
| Licensure | Unrestricted State License | Unrestricted State License |
| Experience | 2-4 Years Post-Licensure | 2-4 Years Post-Licensure |
Requirements and Qualifications
This role demands a high level of professional integrity. Applicants must be U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers or candidates for a Call to Active Duty (CAD). You must possess a full, current, and unrestricted license in your field and hold the necessary educational credentials. Given the nature of the detention environment, candidates must be prepared for the physical demands of the job, including the ability to perform CPR in emergency situations and the capacity to maneuver safely in an active facility.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary, with ranges reaching up to $150,000 annually, depending on experience and rank (O-3 through O-5). Compensation is designed to attract top-tier behavioral health professionals capable of handling the nuances of federal medical care.
Benefits
Employees of the IHSC benefit from being part of the federal workforce. These benefits include:
- Comprehensive health and wellness coverage.
- Retirement and pension planning.
- Professional growth and training opportunities through the USPHS.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application package is complete. Include your official USPHS Promotion CV and all necessary licensure documentation. Since this position requires a high-level background investigation, ensure your historical references are up-to-date. Double-check that all materials are uploaded to the correct sections of your USAJOBS profile to prevent processing delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I don't have a Supervisory background? A: This is a non-supervisory role, though you may be required to act as a team lead in the absence of a designated supervisor.
Q: How is performance evaluated? A: Your work is monitored for adherence to clinical standards, productivity, and success in managing behavioral health outcomes as reported in facility dashboards.
Serving as a Behavioral Health Provider for the ICE Health Service Corps is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that vulnerable populations receive essential mental health services. If you are a qualified clinical professional looking to make a difference, apply today through the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Advance your career as a commissioned officer while providing vital mental health support in a high-impact, mission-driven environment with ICE Health Service Corps.
Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking dedicated Behavioral Health Providers (O-3 to O-5) to join our team in El Paso, Texas. In this non-supervisory role, you will serve as a critical mental health advocate and clinician for detained non-citizens. You will perform clinical assessments, lead evidence-based treatment planning, and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to manage complex behavioral health needs. This opportunity is exclusively available to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and those pursuing a Call to Active Duty (CAD).
Requirements for Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or a candidate for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
- For Psychologists: Doctoral Degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., or equivalent) in clinical or counseling psychology.
- For Social Workers: Master's degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
- Full, current, and unrestricted clinical license in any U.S. State or Territory.
- Minimum of 2 years of post-licensure clinical experience for O-3, 3 years for O-4, or 4 years for O-5.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Ability to pass a critical-sensitive (CS)/High Risk suitability and security background investigation.
- Willingness to work in a physically demanding, often austere, and high-stress environment.
Preferred Qualifications for Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Demonstrated expertise in behavioral health and substance abuse counseling.
- Experience with multidisciplinary team collaboration in a healthcare or correctional setting.
- Strong proficiency in electronic medical record (EMR) documentation and clinical reporting.
- Ability to provide training and education to staff regarding suicide prevention and trauma-informed care.
- Experience in coordinating care transitions for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health benefits package
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Relocation assistance where applicable
- ✓Contribution to national security and public safety missions
💡 How to Apply Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Behavioral Health Provider (O-3/O-4/O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your documentation, including your official USPHS Promotion CV or civilian resume, professional licenses, and transcripts.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents (COERs, certificates, references) to the appropriate sections.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your documentation is clearly labeled as requested (e.g., placing degrees under 'Diploma/GED').
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for system processing times.
- Review your email frequently, as communication regarding your status will be sent electronically.
- Contact the HR representative listed at least 24 hours prior to the closing date if you encounter technical difficulties.
- Tailor your CV to highlight relevant clinical experience and evidence-based practice usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is strictly open to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and those eligible for a Call to Active Duty (CAD).
What physical requirements should I expect?
Because this is a hazardous duty assignment, providers must be able to perform clinical duties in an austere environment, including standing/kneeling for long periods, performing CPR, and physically assisting detainees during emergency situations.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, periodic travel to BHU HQ for training, education, and meetings may be required.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is an integral part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). IHSC provides medical, dental, and mental health care to approximately 34,000 detainees daily. By working with IHSC, you contribute to a complex, nationwide healthcare network dedicated to maintaining professional clinical standards in correctional settings. The organization values multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that every detainee receives comprehensive support.