Lead at the Forefront: Supervisory Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6)
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) stands at the unique intersection of public health and national security. We are currently seeking a highly experienced and mission-ready USPHS officer to serve as the Special Operations Unit (ISOU) Section Chief (O-6 Billet). This role is not merely an administrative position; it is a vital leadership post that ensures the health, safety, and security of individuals in custody during complex, multi-agency operations.
Job Responsibilities
As the Section Chief, you will assist the Unit Chief in overseeing 21 unique programs within the ISOU. Your responsibilities include:
- Leadership & Supervision: Providing guidance and performance evaluations for staff, as well as mentoring officers for career development.
- Program Management: Overseeing medical air and ground operations, training programs, and clinical quality assessments.
- Direct Patient Care: Serving as a medical aircrew member for removal missions on aircraft, vessels, and ground transport.
- Interagency Collaboration: Acting as the primary liaison between IHSC, ICE, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other domestic or international agencies.
Requirements
This position requires an officer with proven, specialized experience. Candidates must:
- Be a current USPHS officer and IHSC employee.
- Possess 3 years of ISOU-specific experience and 4 years of correctional/immigration health experience.
- Maintain 24/7 deployable status for air, land, and sea operations.
- Demonstrate proficiency in both medical care and administrative oversight.
Required Qualifications Comparison
| Requirement | Essential | Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Current USPHS Officer | Yes | N/A |
| ISOU Experience | 3 Years | N/A |
| Advanced Degrees | No | Master’s (Clinical/Mgmt) |
| Certifications | Basic BLS/ACLS | CCHP / Flight Med |
| Security Clearance | Secret | N/A |
Salary and Benefits
This O-6 Billet offers a salary range up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with USPHS Commissioned Corps pay scales and experience. Officers are supported by comprehensive government benefits, including health, retirement, and significant opportunities for leadership advancement within the uniformed service.
Application Tips
To be considered, your application must be complete. Ensure all USPHS-specific documents, such as your Promotion CV and recent COERs, are correctly attached. Because this is a high-demand, sensitive position, we recommend reaching out to the HR representative listed on the announcement if you have questions regarding your documentation status prior to the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can a civilian apply for this position? A: No, this position is restricted to current USPHS officers currently employed by the IHSC.
Q: What is the physical demand of this role? A: The role requires the ability to carry 50 lbs of equipment, perform CPR in confined spaces, and withstand environmental extremes during transport missions.
If you are an accomplished USPHS officer seeking a leadership role that tests your clinical judgment, leadership, and operational readiness, the ISOU Section Chief position is a career-defining opportunity. Join our team and serve at the critical frontline of public health and national security.
Why This Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Matters
Are you a seasoned USPHS officer ready to lead high-stakes medical missions? Join the ICE Health Service Corps Special Operations Unit and define the future of critical care in austere environments.
Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Overview
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet). This critical leadership role serves at the intersection of clinical excellence, national security, and operational management. The incumbent will oversee 21 distinct programs—ranging from medical air operations to interagency support—while maintaining deployable status for high-intensity missions across land, air, and sea. This position is exclusively available to current USPHS officers within IHSC who are prepared to handle complex, multi-agency environments while ensuring the highest standards of care for detainees.
Requirements for Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Must be a current USPHS officer and current IHSC employee.
- Minimum 3 years of experience as a member of the IHSC Special Operations Unit (ISOU).
- Minimum 4 years of experience in correctional or immigration health systems.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a DHS Secret-level security clearance.
- Must hold and maintain a valid U.S. Government Official Passport and ICE credentials.
- Ability to pass a FAA Class III Flight Physical.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Must be able to lift, carry, or push 50 lbs of medical equipment for 100 yards without assistance.
Preferred Qualifications for Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory
- Master’s degree in a clinical (RN, PA-C, FNP) or healthcare management field.
- Certification as a Correctional Health Care Professional (CCHP).
- Advanced certifications: ACLS, PALS, PHTLS, AMLS, TNCC, or TECC.
- Prior military experience or specialized experience in aerospace medicine.
- Proficiency in a secondary language.
- Direct experience in emergency department or intensive care unit settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package for USPHS Commissioned Corps officers.
- ✓Opportunity to participate in diverse, high-impact national security missions.
- ✓Professional development through leadership training and specialized certifications.
- ✓Collaborative work environment with federal and international stakeholders.
💡 How to Apply Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Ihsc Special Operations Unit Section Chief (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job
- Ensure you are a current IHSC USPHS officer meeting all eligibility criteria.
- Prepare your USPHS Promotion CV, recent COERs, and service agreements.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit all required documentation, including references and professional credentials.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Ensure your USPHS Promotion CV is up-to-date and reflects the specific leadership and clinical experience required for this role.
- Clearly label documents as requested in the announcement (e.g., placing COERs under 'Performance Appraisal').
- Include a memo attesting to your Assignment Pay status if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this O-6 Billet?
This position is open exclusively to current USPHS officers who are also currently employed by IHSC. USPHS Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates are not eligible.
What is the physical nature of this job?
This is a hazardous duty position. You must be capable of working in confined spaces, at high altitudes, and in varied weather conditions. You will be expected to perform life-saving care in austere environments.
How much travel is expected?
The position requires travel approximately 50% of the time, often on short notice, in support of medical transport and operational missions.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
As a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is dedicated to protecting the United States from cross-border crime and security threats. The IHSC provides direct medical support at dozens of facilities and during enforcement operations. Our multidisciplinary workforce includes commissioned officers, civil servants, and medical professionals working to provide high-quality care in some of the most challenging environments in the world.