Advance Your Nursing Career with the ICE Health Service Corps
Are you a dedicated nurse looking to transition into a career of service and national impact? The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is currently recruiting qualified Registered Nurses for critical roles in Pearsall, Texas. This unique position offers the opportunity to practice advanced clinical skills within the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps.
Job Responsibilities
As an RN within the IHSC, your responsibilities extend far beyond traditional bedside care. Key duties include:
- Clinical Care: Triage, patient assessment, and medication administration.
- Emergency Response: Serving as a first responder for medical emergencies within the facility.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate electronic health records (S.O.A.P.E. format).
- Leadership: Mentoring junior staff, serving as a Charge Nurse or Team Lead, and participating in quality improvement projects.
Requirements Overview
| Level | Experience Required | Education | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| O-2 | 0-2 Years | BSN | Foundational Clinical Care |
| O-3 | 2-4 Years | BSN | Team Building & Management |
| O-4 | 4+ Years | BSN/MSN | Advanced Leadership & Clinical Strategy |
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must:
- Hold an active, unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. state or territory.
- Maintain current USPHS Basic Readiness status.
- Have a BSN degree (a Master’s is preferred for the O-4 level).
- Successfully complete a high-risk security background check.
Salary and Benefits
Officers serving in the USPHS receive a robust compensation package. While the base salary is highly competitive, the true value includes comprehensive health insurance, a government pension, and unique allowances for uniform and housing. You will also have access to professional development programs designed to hone your leadership and forensic nursing capabilities.
Application Tips
- Documentation: Organize your documents precisely as requested in the announcement. Missing documents are the primary reason for disqualification.
- CV Tailoring: Ensure your CV highlights your clinical experience, especially any work with special needs populations or emergency care.
- The 'Why': Your cover letter is a critical piece of your application. Emphasize your desire to support the mission of the USPHS and your ability to work within diverse, high-pressure environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a specific state license to work in Texas? No, as long as you hold an active license in any U.S. state, district, or territory, you meet the requirements.
Is this a supervisory role? No, these are currently non-supervisory billets, though they offer significant opportunities for clinical leadership and project management.
Will I need a security clearance? Yes, this position requires a critical-sensitive/high-risk background investigation due to the sensitive nature of the detention environment.
This role with the ICE Health Service Corps is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public health on a national level. If you are prepared to leverage your nursing expertise in a challenging and rewarding environment, we encourage you to prepare your application materials and apply today.
Why This Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Advance your nursing career and serve with purpose as a USPHS Commissioned Corps Officer within the ICE Health Service Corps in Pearsall, Texas.
Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking dedicated Registered Nurses for O-2, O-3, and O-4 billet positions. This role is exclusively for U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates. As a critical member of a multidisciplinary team, you will provide comprehensive patient care, including triage, medication administration, and emergency response in a unique detention environment. This role emphasizes clinical leadership, process improvement, and patient advocacy.
Requirements for Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidate.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree (Master's preferred for O-4).
- Current, active professional RN license in any U.S. state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or territory.
- Current CPR/BLS certification.
- Must maintain USPHS Basic Readiness status.
- Ability to pass a critical-sensitive (CS)/high-risk security background investigation.
- Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting over 30 lbs and standing for prolonged periods during emergencies.
Preferred Qualifications for Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Spanish language proficiency is highly desirable.
- For O-2: 0-2 years of professional nursing experience.
- For O-3: 2-4 years of professional nursing experience.
- For O-4: 4+ years of professional experience, with graduate-level education preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in forensic nursing, clinical coordination, or management roles.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive federal health benefits
- ✓USPHS Commissioned Corps retirement and pension plan
- ✓Professional development and continuing education opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for regional and national impact
- ✓Uniformed services allowances
💡 How to Apply Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Registered Nurse (O-2/O-3/O-4 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Review the specific requirements for your desired billet (O-2, O-3, or O-4).
- Prepare your U.S. Public Health Service official promotion CV and required cover letter.
- Gather supporting documents, including professional licenses, degrees, and three references.
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload all necessary documents as outlined in the announcement.
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 5, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your documentation is formatted correctly as per the instructions (e.g., placing degrees under 'Diploma/GED').
- Double-check that all three professional references are included with valid contact information.
- If you are a current USPHS officer, ensure your COERs and Service Remaining Requirements Agreement are current.
- Submit at least 24 hours before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Clearly indicate your location preferences in your cover letter if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is open exclusively to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps officers and individuals currently in the Call to Active Duty (CAD) application process.
What is the expected timeline for the hiring process?
Following the application deadline, the agency identifies the best-qualified candidates for interviews. Job offers are generally expected within 60 days of the closing date.
Are there physical requirements for this role?
Yes. Due to the detention setting and emergency response nature of the role, nurses must be able to lift over 30 lbs, perform CPR, and stand or kneel for extended periods in austere environments.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically within Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), manages the IHSC. This organization provides on-site medical care to detainees across the United States. With a mission rooted in protecting public safety and maintaining the health of those within the immigration system, the IHSC operates a vast network of facilities, relying on a multidisciplinary workforce of commissioned officers, federal employees, and contractors.