Become an Infection Prevention Officer with the ICE Health Service Corps
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled professional to serve as an Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet). This critical non-supervisory role is dedicated to maintaining the health and safety standards within detention environments. If you are an officer within the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) or eligible for Call to Active Duty, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence public health policy and practice at the federal level.
Job Responsibilities
As the Infection Prevention Officer, your primary objective is to lead the charge in mitigating infectious disease risks. Key duties include:
- Policy Implementation: Updating and monitoring infection control and tuberculosis (TB) case management procedures.
- Outbreak Investigation: Coordinating contact tracing and responding to public health emergencies.
- Training: Educating clinical staff on the latest infection control standards.
- Reporting: Acting as the primary liaison between the clinical facility, regional leadership, and local public health authorities.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate:
- Current USPHS commissioned officer status or eligibility for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
- Valid, unrestricted professional licensure in a clinical discipline (Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or Pharmacist).
- Three or more years of professional experience in infection prevention and control.
- Ability to clear a High-Risk background investigation.
Comparison: Standard Clinical Role vs. IHSC Infection Prevention Officer
| Feature | Standard Clinical Role | IHSC Infection Prevention Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Work | Direct Patient Care | Public Health Surveillance & Policy |
| Environment | Hospital/Clinic | Detention Facility (Austere) |
| Primary Focus | Individual Health | Population Health & Outbreak Control |
| Interagency Work | Low/Minimal | High (Local, State, and Federal) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with military/commissioned corps pay scales and the O-5 rank structure.
Benefits
Employees enjoy the comprehensive benefits associated with the Commissioned Corps, including robust healthcare coverage, retirement options, and the unique honor of serving in a federal public health capacity.
Application Tips
- Documentation: Ensure your USPHS Promotion CV and all licensing documents are attached to their respective fields in the USAJOBS portal.
- Attention to Detail: The hiring team strictly reviews for completeness. Missing a single professional reference or COER can result in your application not being considered.
- Timeliness: Do not wait until the final hours to submit, as technical issues may prevent your application from successfully reaching the portal before the 11/05/2026 deadline.
Serving as an Infection Prevention Officer with the IHSC is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public safety and health equity. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to tackle the challenges of a fast-paced, high-stakes environment, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Matters
Protect public health on the front lines: Join the ICE Health Service Corps as an Infection Prevention Officer and play a critical role in safeguarding detainees and staff through specialized clinical leadership.
Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job Overview
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a dedicated Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) for a non-supervisory role based in Taylor, Texas. This position is exclusive to U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidates. The successful candidate will spearhead infection control strategies, oversee tuberculosis (TB) case management, and manage outbreak investigations within detention facilities. You will serve as a subject matter expert, liaison with public health agencies, and ensure that clinical standards meet rigorous federal and medical guidelines.
Requirements for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Must be a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer or a qualified Call to Active Duty (CAD) candidate.
- Must hold a valid, unrestricted professional license in a relevant clinical field (Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or Pharmacist).
- Minimum of three years of professional experience specifically in infection prevention, control, or TB care.
- Active CPR/BLS certification.
- Ability to pass a Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk background investigation and drug testing.
- Must be physically capable of performing emergency care and assisting with the movement of detainees in austere environments.
Preferred Qualifications for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory
- Proven experience with national infection control guidance, policies, and accreditation standards in a detention or correctional healthcare setting.
- Advanced proficiency in managing public health data, including complex spreadsheets and electronic health records.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to work independently in high-stress, rapidly changing environments.
- Demonstrated ability to liaison effectively with local, state, and federal public health authorities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- โComprehensive federal benefits package associated with USPHS Commissioned Corps service.
- โProfessional development through specialized public health training.
- โOpportunity for national-level impact within the Department of Homeland Security.
- โTravel opportunities for facility support and coordination.
๐ก How to Apply Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Infection Prevention Officer (O-5 Billet) Non-Supervisory Job
- Ensure you have your USPHS Promotion CV and required clinical documentation prepared.
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents including your COERs, professional licenses, and degrees.
- Submit your application by the deadline of 11/05/2026.
๐ก General Tips
- Ensure your documentation is uploaded under the specific categories requested (e.g., USPHS Promotion CV, Diploma/GED) to avoid rejection.
- If you are not an existing IHSC employee, ensure your Assignment Pay (AP) status is clearly documented with a memo if applicable.
- Review your electronic official personnel file (eOPF) to ensure your Certificate of Investigation is current.
- Contact the HR representative at least 24 hours before the closing date if you encounter technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is strictly limited to current U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officers and those eligible for Call to Active Duty (CAD).
What is the physical nature of this job?
The role requires the ability to perform physical tasks such as CPR, lifting up to 30 pounds, and moving through austere environments during emergencies.
What level of security clearance is required?
This position is classified as Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk and requires a comprehensive background investigation.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Yes, relocation benefits are available for this position.*
What if I have questions about my USPHS status?
*A: Please reach out to the IHSC recruiting contact provided in the official job announcement for specific questions regarding your status.*
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE are charged with protecting the nationโs security. The IHSC plays a pivotal role in this mission by providing high-quality medical care to detainees across hundreds of facilities. With a multidisciplinary workforce, IHSC ensures that public health standards are met despite the complexities of a detention environment.
