Advance Your Career: Physician Assistant Opportunities with ICE
The ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) is looking for highly skilled Physician Assistants to join its medical team. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and want to serve in a mission-driven environment, this federal role offers unique challenges and significant responsibilities. You will be instrumental in maintaining the health and safety of the detainee population, working in either Arizona or New York.
Job Responsibilities
As a Physician Assistant, your core duties will include:
- Conducting comprehensive history and physical examinations.
- Treating acute injuries and managing chronic health conditions.
- Screening for infectious diseases.
- Maintaining strict patient confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.
- Collaborating with regional medical doctors to provide consistent, high-quality care.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Graduated from an ARC-PA accredited program.
- Licensure: Hold a current, unrestricted PA license in a U.S. jurisdiction.
- Certification: Must be NCCPA certified.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
- Legal: Possess a valid DEA registration for controlled substances.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Necessary Action |
|---|---|
| Education | Submit transcripts (official or unofficial) |
| Certification | Provide proof of NCCPA status |
| Licensure | Provide copy of current state license |
| Experience | Detail specialized work on a 2-page resume |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $107,182 to $144,741 per year, depending on the assigned location and applicable locality pay.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an extensive package, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- Thrift Savings Plan with government matching.
- Paid leave and 11 federal holidays annually.
- Wellness programs and fitness incentives.
- Potential for student loan repayment programs.
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: Do not exceed two pages. Overly long resumes will only be reviewed based on the first two pages.
- Clarity: Use concrete examples of your clinical work to demonstrate your expertise.
- Assessments: Complete all assigned USA Hire assessments promptly; these are critical to your application ranking.
Joining the ICE Health Service Corps is a career choice that blends high-level clinical practice with public service. If you meet the qualifications, prepare your application today to join a team dedicated to excellence and security.
Why This Physician Assistant Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on national security and public health by joining the ICE Health Service Corps as a Physician Assistant.
Physician Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is currently seeking dedicated Physician Assistants (PAs) to join the ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC). In this role, you will provide critical clinical care to detainees, performing comprehensive physical exams, managing chronic illnesses, and responding to urgent health needs. Based in Eloy, Arizona, or Batavia, New York, this position offers the opportunity to practice with a high degree of professional independence while contributing to the security and wellbeing of the nation.
Requirements for Physician Assistant
- Completion of a Physician Assistant educational program accredited by the ARC-PA.
- Current, active, full, and unrestricted license/registration as a PA in a U.S. State, DC, or territory.
- Successful completion of the NCCPA certification exam.
- Possession of a current DEA registration to prescribe controlled substances.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal service.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Preferred Qualifications for Physician Assistant
- Experience providing direct patient care with minimal oversight.
- Background in treating acute illnesses and managing chronic conditions.
- Experience implementing healthcare policies in clinical settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment incentives.
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Physician Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physician Assistant Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a concise 2-page resume highlighting relevant clinical experience.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Submit all required documentation, including transcripts, licenses, and certifications.
- Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if prompted.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages to avoid disqualification.
- Be specific and clear regarding your clinical experience rather than copying duties from the job posting.
- Ensure all contact information and employment dates are accurate.
- Submit your application early to allow time for the required online assessments.
- Double-check that all required certifications (NCCPA, BLS) are attached before final submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Physician Assistant at ICE?
You will provide urgent, emergent, and chronic care to detainees, conducting physical examinations and screening for contagious diseases while working under regional medical oversight.
Is a background investigation required?
Yes, all selected applicants must pass a public trust background investigation, which may include financial and criminal history checks.
Can I use foreign education for this position?
Yes, provided you submit an official evaluation from a private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign education, confirming equivalence to U.S. standards.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, relocation assistance is not provided for this vacancy.
Is drug testing required?
Yes, as this is a security-sensitive position, you are subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is tasked with protecting the nation through a wide array of missions, ranging from border security to disaster resilience. ICE, as the principal investigative arm of the DHS, plays a crucial role in these efforts. The ICE Health Service Corps specifically ensures that all detainees receive high-quality medical, dental, and mental health care that adheres to professional standards.