Lead the Charge: Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider Opportunity with ICE Health Service Corps in Florence, Arizona

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is continuously seeking dedicated professionals to uphold its vital mission of protecting American interests and securing the nation. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a crucial role within this framework, ensuring the health and well-being of individuals in ICE custody. We are currently seeking an experienced and compassionate Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider to join our team in Florence, Arizona. This leadership position offers a unique opportunity to shape behavioral health services, mentor a team, and make a profound impact on public health and safety.

About the Agency: Department of Homeland Security and ICE Health Service Corps

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) comprises a vast network of agencies working collaboratively to prevent terrorism, secure borders, protect transportation systems, safeguard cyberspace, and ensure resilience to disasters. Its components work tirelessly to enforce immigration laws and administer them fairly.

Within DHS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the principal investigative arm, dedicated to combating cross-border crime and illegal immigration that threaten national security and public safety. ICE's mission is carried out through smart enforcement strategies, focusing on the illegal movement of people and goods.

The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is the medical and mental health arm of ICE, responsible for providing comprehensive healthcare services to individuals in ICE detention facilities across the nation. With a multi-sector, multidisciplinary workforce of over 1600 employees, including U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officers, federal civil servants, and contract staff, IHSC delivers direct patient care at 20 detention facilities and manages off-site care for detainees in approximately 240 additional facilities. IHSC is committed to ensuring the delivery of quality, comprehensive, and integrated healthcare.

The Role: Job Responsibilities of a Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider

As a Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider, you will be instrumental in leading and managing behavioral health services within an ICE detention facility. Your responsibilities will encompass a broad range of clinical, administrative, and supervisory duties:

Clinical Responsibilities:

• Comprehensive Assessments: Conduct in-depth biopsychosocial and psychological assessments of detainees to identify mental health needs and risks.
• Treatment Planning: Develop and implement appropriate treatment plans, utilizing evidence-based modalities for mental health and substance abuse issues.
• Counseling and Psychotherapy: Provide direct counseling, psychotherapy, and behavioral analysis to individuals requiring mental health support.
• Referrals and Coordination: Refer individuals with severe mental disorders or complex needs to appropriate outside treatment facilities or specialized programs. Coordinate with ICE/OPLA for the management of serious mental illness (SMI) caseloads.
• Consultation: Offer expert consultation to medical staff, ICE personnel, and contract staff on issues including risk assessment, management of difficult detainees, and crisis intervention.
• Suicide Prevention: Serve as the Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator, responsible for policy administration, intervention strategies, prevention program development, and data collection for program evaluation.
• Continuity of Care: Coordinate with the HQ Behavioral Health Unit to ensure continuity of care for detainees during placement in community treatment, hospital settings, or upon release.
• Electronic Health Records: Utilize the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system for documentation, treatment authorization requests, and case management.

Supervisory and Administrative Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Provide administrative supervision to PHS officers and federal (GS) staff, and clinical oversight and competency training for all behavioral health staff.
• Training Development: Develop and deliver facility-specific training to address clinical competency gaps among behavioral health staff, in collaboration with Regional Behavioral Health Consultants.
• Program Evaluation: Oversee clinical performance peer reviews and conduct program evaluations to ensure quality and compliance.
• Policy Implementation: Act as the lead subject matter expert (SME) for the administration, implementation, and review of Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) policies, especially concerning accreditation compliance.
• Initiative Spearheading: Lead the implementation of new mental health initiatives within the facility.
• Liaison: Maintain effective liaison with other health services professionals and mental health organizations.
• Quality Improvement: Assist in preparation for accreditation and compliance with the local facility health program manager (FHPM), actively participating in clinical performance improvement activities.
• Problem Solving: Identify challenges that impede provider productivity and propose solutions to the Regional Behavioral Health Consultant.
• Reporting: Administer and track quarterly behavioral health provider peer reviews, ensuring timely dissemination of reports.
• Tele-Behavioral Health: Provide tele-behavioral health services to other ICE facilities as needed.

Requirements: Qualifications for Success

To be considered for this pivotal role, candidates must meet the following stringent qualifications:

Qualification Category	Specific Requirements
Education	For Psychologists: PhD or PsyD in Clinical Psychology from an accredited graduate program (APA accreditation preferred). For Social Workers: Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a graduate program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Licensure	For Psychologists: Full, current, and unrestricted license at the Doctoral level to practice clinical psychology. For Social Workers: Current, active, valid, and unrestricted clinical license to practice clinical social work independently (highest clinical designation offered by the licensing board). General: License must be maintained in a permanent, full, independent, and unrestricted status throughout employment. Must be credentialed and privileged with a current, permanent, full and unrestricted license.
Experience	Minimum of 5 years of progressive clinical experience. Minimum of 2 years of administrative experience in a supervisory capacity. Experience in a correctional setting is preferred.
Special Status	Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
Core Competencies	Superior oral/written communication, Leadership, Independent work, Teamwork, Active Listening, Reading Comprehension, Interpersonal skills, Organizational and Time Management, Problem Solving, Judgment, Decision-making, Integrity/Honesty.

Physical Demands: Ensuring Readiness for Duty

This position requires the ability to perform duties in a potentially stressful and demanding environment. Physical requirements include:

• Walking unaided at a normal pace for up to 5 minutes and maintaining balance.
• Jogging or fast-walking up to 1/4 mile.
• Performing CPR/emergency care while standing or kneeling.
• Assisting sick, injured, or aging detainees or staff (may involve lifting, dragging, wheeling, or carrying individuals significantly heavier than oneself).
• Adequate vision, hearing, and smell (with aids if necessary).
• Ability to alternate between kneeling and standing easily.
• Lifting, pushing, or carrying up to 30 pounds.
• Performing job duties without physical limitations in a stressful and often austere environment.

Salary Overview

While a specific salary range isn't detailed, the remuneration for this position is indicated with a maximum of $150,000 per year, reflecting the level of responsibility and expertise required.

Benefits: Investing in Our Providers

As a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officer, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package. This typically includes:

• Competitive salary and potential for special pays.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings and pension plans.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous training.

For detailed information on USPHS benefits, please visit: https://www.usphs.gov/salary-and-benefits

Application Process: How to Apply

To apply for this critical Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider position, please follow these steps:

1. Access USAJOBS: Visit the USAJOBS website and create an account or log in to your existing account.
2. Complete Occupational Questionnaire: Navigate to the job announcement and complete the occupational questionnaire accurately and thoroughly.
3. Submit Application: Ensure you click the "Submit My Answers" button at the end of the questionnaire. Upload all required supporting documents as specified in the announcement.

Application Deadline: The application must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on September 30, 2027.

Application Tips for a Strong Submission

• Completeness is Key: Ensure all required documents are uploaded before the closing date. Missing documents can lead to disqualification.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your clinical experience, supervisory accomplishments, and any experience in correctional or detention settings.
• USPHS Officers: Include your Official USPHS Promotion CV and your three most recent Commissioned Officer Effectiveness Reports (COERs).
• CAD Candidates: Provide the U.S. Public Health Service - Appointment Board Decision Letter/Email or a screenshot of your AES dashboard.
• Professional References: List three professional references with their complete contact information.
• Email Accuracy: Double-check that your provided email address is valid to receive important notifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Is this position open to the public?

  • A: No, this position is specifically open to current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and individuals eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD) with the USPHS.

• Q: What is the primary location for this job?

  • A: The position is located in Florence, Arizona.

• Q: Can I work remotely in this role?

  • A: No, this position is not telework-eligible and requires on-site presence in Florence, Arizona.

• Q: What is the expected duration of employment?

  • A: The announcement indicates a specific period of performance from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027, with potential for extension or conversion based on agency needs and funding.

• **Q: What kind of training can I expect?

  • A: You will be responsible for developing and providing facility-specific training to behavioral health staff to address clinical competency gaps. Travel to HQ for training and education may also be required.

This Supervisory Behavioral Health Provider role within the ICE Health Service Corps presents an exceptional chance for a seasoned clinician and leader to contribute significantly to national security and public health. If you possess the required qualifications, a commitment to serving vulnerable populations, and the drive to lead a dedicated team, we encourage you to apply. Join the Department of Homeland Security and make a lasting impact.