Launch Your Healthcare Career with the Indian Health Service in Kyle, SD
Are you looking for a career that combines clinical skill with a profound commitment to community service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) at the Pine Ridge Service Unit is currently hiring for a Health Technician to support our operations at the Kyle Health Center. This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native populations in a supportive, collaborative, and fast-paced healthcare environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Health Technician, you will be the backbone of our clinic’s outpatient services. Your daily tasks will be diverse, requiring both technical precision and deep empathy. Responsibilities include:
- Clinical Support: Monitoring vital signs, performing point-of-care testing, and assisting providers during examinations.
- Patient Care: Assisting with patient mobility, activities of daily living, and ensuring comfort during procedures.
- Health Screenings: Conducting assessments for preventive care, including tobacco use, substance use history, and mental health screenings.
- Operational Excellence: Managing medical equipment, maintaining accurate patient files, and ensuring adherence to safety and infection control protocols.
Requirements
To qualify for this role, candidates must demonstrate a solid foundation in either education or clinical experience. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and are subject to federal background investigations and financial suitability checks. Because this position involves working with children, specific legal compliance is mandatory under Public Law 101-630.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position offers a competitive salary based on the GS pay scale. The grade level for this position ranges from GS-4 to GS-6. Below is a breakdown of what to expect:
| Pay Grade | Focus Level |
|---|---|
| GS-4 | Entry Level / Foundational |
| GS-5 | Intermediate / Screening Focus |
| GS-6 | Advanced / Specimen & Clinical Focus |
Salary range for this position is $37,193 to $59,031 per year.
Benefits
IHS employees are part of a robust federal employment system. Benefits include standard federal leave accrual (4, 6, or 8 hours per pay period depending on tenure), opportunities for career advancement, and a stable work environment. Additionally, recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Clearly list your specific clinical tasks and the number of hours worked per week.
- Submit Transcripts: Even if unofficial, submitting your academic transcripts early will help in verifying your qualification level.
- Complete Assessments Promptly: The USA Hire assessment is mandatory. Do not wait until the last minute to access your testing link.
If you are ready to make a tangible difference in the lives of the people of Pine Ridge, we invite you to apply. This role offers more than just a job; it provides an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to long-term health improvements. Review the announcement, ensure your documentation is complete, and take the first step toward your future with the Indian Health Service.
Why This Health Technician Job Matters
Make a meaningful impact on community health as a Health Technician with the Indian Health Service in beautiful Kyle, South Dakota.
Health Technician Job Overview
The Pine Ridge Service Unit is seeking a dedicated Health Technician to join the Kyle Health Center team. In this role, you will provide vital clinical and technical support to our medical staff, ensuring high-quality care for our patients. You will engage directly with American Indian and Alaska Native populations, contributing to improved health outcomes while working within a collaborative, mission-driven interdisciplinary team.
Requirements for Health Technician
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.
- Must register with the Selective Service (if male and born after 12/31/1959).
- Must complete the IHS employee immunization requirements.
- Must hold a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
- Ability to perform physical tasks including walking, standing, and lifting/transporting patients.
- Flexibility to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician
- Prior clinical experience in venipuncture and specimen collection.
- Experience in administering preventive health screenings (e.g., substance use, mental health).
- Certification or significant experience as a medical assistant or equivalent health technician role.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career retirement benefits
- ✓Competitive salary range
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
- ✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on federal service years
💡 How to Apply Health Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Health Technician Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare your resume according to USAJOBS standards.
- Click the Apply Online button to access the application portal.
- Complete the required questionnaire and attach all necessary documentation.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM (ET) closing date.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
- Complete the assessment within the designated timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details hours worked per week for each experience entry.
- Submit all relevant transcripts or certifications early to prevent delays.
- Take the USA Hire assessment as soon as you receive the link; it is a mandatory part of the evaluation.
- Verify that all documents are legible and uploaded correctly before the deadline.
- Use the USAJOBS 'Track this application' feature to stay updated on your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Health Technician at the Kyle Health Center?
You will assist medical providers with clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, performing screenings, assisting with examinations, and maintaining accurate patient records.
Is the position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an on-site clinical position located at the Kyle Health Center in South Dakota.
What documents are required to claim Indian Preference?
You must provide a completed Form BIA-4432, verified by a tribal representative or BIA official.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. We are a dedicated, nationwide organization of healthcare providers who believe in compassionate, creative, and community-focused care. Our professionals tackle the individual health needs of over 2 million people, making the IHS an excellent place to build a meaningful career in public service.