Become a Community Health Nurse with the Indian Health Service

Are you a dedicated healthcare professional seeking to improve the quality of life for underserved communities? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is looking for a passionate Community Health Nurse to join the Gallup Service Unit in New Mexico. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to focus on pediatric and adolescent health within a school-based clinical environment.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

In this role, you will act as a bridge between clinical healthcare and public health education. Your primary responsibilities will include:

Clinical Care: Providing acute, preventive, and emergency care for students in a school-based setting.
Care Coordination: Developing and managing individualized health plans for pediatric patients.
Community Outreach: Planning and participating in immunization clinics, screenings, and health fairs.
Quality Improvement: Using data analysis to identify trends and improve service delivery within the community.

Comparison: General Nursing vs. Community Health Nursing

Feature	General Clinical Nursing	Community Health Nursing
Setting	Hospital / Acute Care	Schools / Clinics / Community
Focus	Individual Treatment	Population Health & Prevention
Strategy	Reactive / Symptom-Based	Proactive / Educational
Collaboration	Inter-departmental	Schools, Tribes, & Organizations

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Licensure: You must hold a current, active, full, and unrestricted nursing license in a U.S. jurisdiction.
Education: A graduate degree, bachelor's, associate degree, or diploma from an accredited nursing program.
Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-9 level or higher.
Compliance: Ability to pass a federal background check and adhere to agency immunization policies.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $98,244 to $127,725 per year, commensurate with experience. Beyond the paycheck, the federal total compensation package is highly regarded, including:

Flexible annual leave accrual rates.
Eligibility for Student Loan Repayment Programs.
Comprehensive insurance and retirement benefits.
Potential for recruitment and relocation incentives for qualified candidates.

How to Apply

To apply, ensure your resume is updated on USAJOBS. Clearly define your weekly hours worked and specific professional responsibilities. The application process includes a questionnaire and potentially a competency assessment. Please ensure all documents—including transcripts and licensing information—are uploaded correctly before the October 30, 2026 deadline.

Serving as a Community Health Nurse in Gallup, New Mexico, is more than a job—it is a mission to drive positive health outcomes for our youth. If you possess the clinical skill, cultural humility, and professional drive required, we encourage you to apply and contribute to the vital work of the Indian Health Service.

Why This Nurse (Community Health) Job Matters

Elevate your nursing career by making a profound impact on student health and wellness in Gallup, New Mexico—join the Indian Health Service and serve a community that values your expertise.

Nurse (Community Health) Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Community Health Nurse for a vital role within the Gallup Service Unit. This position is primarily based in a school-based health clinic, where you will provide essential healthcare services, manage chronic conditions, and promote wellness among pediatric and adolescent populations. If you are passionate about public health, patient advocacy, and delivering culturally sensitive care, this opportunity offers a fulfilling career path in a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment.

Requirements for Nurse (Community Health)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Current, active, full, and unrestricted license or registration as a professional nurse in any state, D.C., Puerto Rico, or U.S. territory.
Graduation from an accredited professional nursing program.
Successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
Must complete a federal background investigation.
Must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
One year of specialized nursing experience equivalent to the GS-9 level.

Preferred Qualifications for Nurse (Community Health)

Professional experience in pediatric nursing, specifically in a school-based setting.
Background in community health assessment and outreach.
Experience in telehealth and telephone triage.
Ability to develop and deliver culturally appropriate health education programs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and compensation package.
✓Annual leave accrual based on years of federal service.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives (service agreement required).
✓Student loan repayment program eligibility through IHS, NHSC, or HRSA.
✓Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous training.

💡 How to Apply Nurse (Community Health) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Nurse (Community Health) Job

Prepare your resume and supporting documentation (transcripts, nursing license).
Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJOBS portal.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach required forms.
Submit your application before the closing date of October 30, 2026.
If prompted, complete the USA Hire assessment within the specified timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your nursing hours per week and specific duties.
Verify your eligibility for Indian Preference and include form BIA-4432 if applicable.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and accurate before submission.
Review your application status via your USAJOBS account to ensure no additional actions are required.
Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this nursing position?

This role centers on school-based health, focusing on pediatric and adolescent care, student health coordination, and community wellness programs.

Can I apply if my nursing license is from a different state?

Yes, as long as your license is current, active, and unrestricted in any U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.

Is a background check required?

Yes, all successful candidates must complete a federal background investigation as a condition of employment.

Do I need a specific pediatric specialty?

While experience in pediatrics or school nursing is highly preferred, all applicants must meet the core nursing experience requirements to be considered.

Is student loan repayment available?

Yes, the IHS, NHSC, and HRSA offer competitive student loan repayment programs, which are processed separately from the primary hiring action.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a premier federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Our mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. We operate as a dynamic team, valuing creativity, service, and a community-oriented approach to healthcare.