Lead Healthcare Operations at the National Level: Deputy Chief, HOPPs

Are you a dedicated U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer looking to make a significant impact on national health operations? The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is currently seeking a high-level leader to fill the position of Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans and Programs (HOPPs). This O-6 billet is designed for experienced professionals ready to oversee the complex logistics, facility readiness, and strategic planning that sustain healthcare across the nation’s detention centers.

Job Responsibilities

As the Deputy Chief of HOPPs, your daily contributions will directly affect the operational efficiency of healthcare across multiple sites. You will serve as the principal advisor to the Chief and act in their capacity when needed. Key responsibilities include:

Leadership & Supervision: Managing a team of program analysts and managers, fostering a high-performance, accountable culture.
Strategic Planning: Directing lifecycle planning for facilities, including transition frameworks and readiness models.
Operational Continuity: Maintaining readiness for emergency surges, special missions, and public health responses.
Stakeholder Engagement: Coordinating with DHS, ICE, and external partners to resolve operational barriers.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet strict internal requirements. This role is not open to the general public.

Current USPHS Status: You must be a currently serving USPHS officer and a current IHSC employee.
Management Experience: You must possess at least three years of experience as a HOPPs program manager and two years of supervisory experience.
Security Clearance: You must be eligible for a Critical-Sensitive (CS) position.
Physical Readiness: The role requires physical mobility to perform facility inspections, including walking long distances and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a salary range up to $150,000 per year, commensurate with your USPHS pay grade and years of service. Beyond the base salary, you will receive the full benefits of a commissioned officer, including:

Benefit Category	Description
Health/Insurance	Comprehensive federal healthcare and life insurance programs.
Retirement	Participation in the federal retirement system.
Career Growth	Ongoing professional development and leadership training.
Flexibility	Potential for telework based on operational needs.

Application Tips

Navigating a federal application requires attention to detail. Ensure that all your documentation—especially your COERs and Promotion CV—is clearly organized according to the job announcement. Since the application portal uses specific categories, uploading your files to the correct fields will ensure your file is reviewed correctly and on time.

What is the deadline to apply?

All applications must be submitted via the USAJOBS portal by 11:59 PM (EST) on November 11, 2026.

Serving as the Deputy Chief, HOPPs, is a challenging and rewarding career milestone. You will be shaping the future of detention healthcare and providing vital leadership to your team. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career in the public sector, prepare your application package today.

Why This Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Matters

Lead critical health operations at the intersection of national security and public health with the ICE Health Service Corps.

Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job Overview

The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is seeking a seasoned leader for the Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans and Programs (O-6 Billet) position. This supervisory role is central to managing the operational readiness, facility lifecycle planning, and emergency response strategies for detention healthcare facilities across the nation. As a key advisor and deputy, you will steer complex programs, manage diverse professional teams, and ensure mission continuity for one of the most vital health components within the Department of Homeland Security.

Requirements for Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory

Must be a currently serving U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) officer.
Must be an active ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) employee.
Minimum of three years of experience as a HOPPs program manager.
At least two years of documented supervisory experience managing healthcare or operational personnel.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk security clearance.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Physical capability to conduct facility inspections, including climbing stairs/ladders and lifting up to 50 pounds.
Availability for up to 40% travel, including short-notice deployments.

Preferred Qualifications for Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory

Master's degree or higher in healthcare administration, nursing, public health, business, or emergency management.
Extensive experience in detention or correctional healthcare settings.
Demonstrated history of coordinating high-priority projects across multiple geographic sites.
Active professional license or certification relevant to clinical or operational discipline.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and USPHS pay scales.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Access to federal retirement systems.
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous training.
✓Structured career advancement within the USPHS and IHSC frameworks.
✓Support for relocation expenses where applicable.

💡 How to Apply Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Deputy Chief, Health Operations Plans And Programs (O-6 Billet) Supervisory Job

Log into your USAJOBS account to start the application.
Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire.
Submit your USPHS Promotion CV and a civilian resume if applicable.
Provide a cover letter/letter of interest.
Upload copies of all relevant professional licenses and certificates.
Include your three most recent Commissioned Officer Effectiveness Reports (COER).
Attach your Service Remaining Requirements Agreement and Assignment Pay status memo.
List three professional references.
Submit your completed application package by November 11, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Submit your application at least one day before the deadline to account for technical issues.
Ensure your document labels match the categories requested in the USAJOBS portal.
Double-check that your USPHS documents, such as COERs, are up to date and clearly labeled.
Verify that your email address is correct, as all status updates are sent electronically.
Reach out to the HR contact early if you require assistance with the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for this position?

This position is exclusively open to U.S. Public Health Service officers who are currently employed by the ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC).

What is the travel requirement for this role?

The incumbent must be prepared to travel up to 40% of the time, which includes short-notice travel for emergency responses, facility transitions, and readiness assessments.

Is this a remote position?

No, the position involves significant on-site facility coordination and requires up to 40% travel, though telework may be authorized as part of your overall duty configuration.

Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are committed to protecting the public through smart, effective immigration enforcement and the maintenance of secure facilities. The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) plays a pivotal role in this mission by providing high-quality, professional healthcare within these environments. Serving in the IHSC means working at the forefront of correctional health and public health response, ensuring that clinical services are maintained with the highest standards of safety and compliance.