Advance Your Career as a Staff Pharmacist with the ICE Health Service Corps
Are you a pharmacy professional committed to public service and high-quality clinical care? The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is currently seeking a highly skilled Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) to support medical operations in Eloy, Arizona. This position is a unique opportunity to serve as a commissioned officer while making a direct impact on the health and safety of individuals within the immigration system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Pharmacist, you will serve as a core member of the medical unit. Your responsibilities include:
- Medication Management: Reviewing prescriptions, dispensing medications, and ensuring the accuracy of drug labeling.
- Patient Counseling: Educating detainees on medication use, potential side effects, and adherence, often utilizing translation tools or multilingual resources.
- Inventory Oversight: Managing drug stock, monitoring expiration dates, and coordinating with suppliers to minimize waste.
- Clinical Support: Assisting healthcare providers with formulary inquiries and participating in collaborative practice initiatives.
- Operational Compliance: Maintaining detailed records, conducting environmental audits, and ensuring the pharmacy unit meets all safety and regulatory requirements.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a B.S. or Pharm.D. from an ACPE-accredited program.
- Possess an unrestricted license to practice pharmacy in a U.S. State or Territory.
- Be a Commissioned Officer in the U.S. Public Health Service or a qualified CAD applicant.
- Maintain current BLS/CPR certification.
- Be prepared to undergo a rigorous security background check (Critical-Sensitive/High Risk).
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the O-5 pay scale, with maximums reaching $150,000 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from:
- Comprehensive federal benefits, including health and life insurance.
- Retirement security programs.
- Opportunities for specialized career development within the uniformed services.
Benefits Summary Table
| Benefit Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Health Coverage | Full federal medical insurance plans |
| Retirement | Participation in federal retirement systems |
| Career Growth | USPHS leadership and promotion paths |
| Location Bonus | Potential for relocation assistance |
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Ensure your application includes your most recent COERs, an official Promotion CV, and all necessary licensure documentation. Since this position requires a background check, ensure all personal history is reported accurately.
This role is an excellent fit for pharmacists who thrive in high-stakes environments and are motivated by a sense of duty. If you meet the criteria and are ready to contribute to the IHSC clinical mission, apply today through the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Advance your pharmacy career in a mission-critical role with the ICE Health Service Corps, providing vital clinical support to diverse populations within the Department of Homeland Security.
Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a dedicated Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) to join our team in Eloy, Arizona. In this non-supervisory position, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the health and safety of detainees by managing medication logistics, conducting patient counseling, and maintaining strict compliance with clinical pharmacy standards. This position is strictly reserved for U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officers and qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates.
Requirements for Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or a Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidate.
- B.S. or Pharm.D. degree from an accredited program (ACPE).
- Possess a permanent, full, and unrestricted license from a State Board of Pharmacy.
- Must maintain current CPR/BLS certification.
- Ability to undergo and pass a Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High-Risk suitability and security background investigation.
- Must be able to meet physical demands, including lifting up to 30 lbs and performing emergency care protocols.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Clinical pharmacy experience within a detention or correctional setting.
- Experience with formulary management and drug inventory systems.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and pharmacy-specific management software.
- Exceptional communication skills, including ability to provide patient counseling, preferably in languages relevant to the patient population.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal competitive salary up to $150,000.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the U.S. Public Health Service.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Access to specialized training and cross-disciplinary clinical collaboration.
- ✓Relocation benefits (as applicable).
💡 How to Apply Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Pharmacist (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all required documentation, including USPHS credentials, licenses, and official performance appraisals.
- Submit your application before the closing date of September 30, 2027.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS 'Application Status' dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure all professional licenses and degrees are clearly labeled as requested in the application guide.
- Review your USPHS Promotion CV for accuracy to highlight all relevant clinical and leadership experience.
- Double-check your email address to ensure you receive notifications regarding your application status.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays, as incomplete packets will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This vacancy is exclusive to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) commissioned officers and candidates eligible for a Call to Active Duty (CAD) to the USPHS.
What is the primary work environment?
The role is based within an ICE detention facility in Eloy, Arizona, which requires adaptability to a fast-paced, clinical environment serving detainee populations.
Can I apply if I am not a USPHS officer?
This position is restricted to current USPHS officers or those eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD) to the USPHS.
What is the physical demand of this role?
The role requires standard mobility, the ability to lift up to 30 lbs, and readiness to respond to emergency care scenarios within the clinic.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Health Service Corps (IHSC) operates under the Department of Homeland Security. With a multidisciplinary team of over 1,650 professionals, the IHSC provides comprehensive healthcare services across detention facilities nationwide. The mission is grounded in protecting public safety while ensuring that all individuals in ICE custody receive compassionate and professional medical care in compliance with federal standards.