Launch Your Career in Wellness: Health Technician Role at the Indian Health Service

Are you a fitness professional or health coach looking to make a lasting impact on community wellness? The Haskell Indian Health Center, part of the Indian Health Service (IHS), is currently seeking a motivated Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) to support their Diabetes Prevention and Education Program in Lawrence, Kansas. This is a unique opportunity to join a compassionate, interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving the lives of American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Job Responsibilities

As a Health Technician, your daily tasks will be varied and impactful. You will not only manage fitness facilities but also play an active role in the direct care and education of patients. Key duties include:

Facility Management: Ensuring fitness equipment is sanitized and maintained to the highest safety standards.
Lifestyle Coaching: Working directly with patients and their families to set actionable goals for behavior change.
Program Implementation: Assisting with the Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) curriculum.
Data Management: Developing and tracking data to evaluate the success of local grant-funded programs.
Recruitment: Helping the team grow community participation in prevention activities.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Experience: You must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level in the federal service, which includes fitness planning and health coaching.
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Security: Must successfully complete a federal background investigation and an E-Verify check.
Financial Responsibility: Candidates must demonstrate financial stability.

Comparison Table: Qualifications

Qualification Type	Requirement Details
Education	18 semester hours (graduate level) in a related field
Experience	1 year of specialized fitness/coaching experience
Combined	A mix of education and experience totaling 100%

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $51,283 to $66,670 per year. As a federal employee, you will also gain access to a comprehensive benefits package that provides stability and long-term security.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
Defined benefit pension (FERS).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
Paid time off (Annual and Sick Leave).
Federal Holiday pay.

Application Tips

Be Specific: When describing your work history, emphasize your experience in fitness planning and coaching. Mention the number of hours you worked per week.
Check Your Documents: Ensure your resume and any transcripts are fully uploaded and legible before the deadline.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your email for the USA Hire assessment link; failing to complete this step will result in automatic disqualification.

If you have the passion, the drive, and the credentials to help individuals achieve their health and wellness goals, we encourage you to apply. This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to contribute to the health and well-being of the community in a meaningful, professional, and rewarding environment.

Why This Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on community health and wellness with the Indian Health Service in Lawrence, Kansas.

Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) Job Overview

The Haskell Indian Health Center is seeking a dedicated Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) to join the Diabetes Prevention and Education Program. In this vital role, you will work directly with patients and community members to foster healthy lifestyle changes, maintain fitness facilities, and implement educational curriculums designed to improve health outcomes for American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Requirements for Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach)

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must complete a federal background investigation.
Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Ability to comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy.
Must maintain financial responsibility and good standing with creditors.
Must possess a REAL ID-compliant identification document.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level (or equivalent) in fitness planning and coaching.

Preferred Qualifications for Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach)

Graduate education in a field directly related to health or fitness (18 semester hours).
Experience working in a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Background in diabetes prevention or chronic disease self-management education.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for patient coaching.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.

💡 How to Apply Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Health Technician (Fitness Instructor/Lifestyle Coach) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Create or update your resume on USAJOBS to reflect relevant experience.
Click the Apply Online button to initiate your application via the USA Staffing portal.
Complete all required questionnaires and attach supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, BIA-4432 if applicable).
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments.
Track your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for every position listed.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and accurate.
Use the practice resources available in the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.
If claiming Indian Preference, ensure Form BIA-4432 is signed, dated, and included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use unofficial transcripts for my application?

Yes, unofficial transcripts are accepted during the initial application phase. Official transcripts will be required only if you are selected for the position.

What is the role of the USA Hire Assessment?

It is a mandatory competency-based assessment used to evaluate your qualifications. You must complete it within the specified timeframe to remain eligible for the role.

Is travel required for this position?

The position is designated as having no expected travel (Travel Code 0).

What if I have a disability?

The agency provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment process. Ensure you request this early in the application steps.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this position is located in Lawrence, Kansas, and requires on-site presence.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is responsible for providing federal health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. IHS employees are known for their creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare in diverse, community-oriented environments. By joining this team, you become part of a national effort to address health disparities and empower individuals to live healthier lives.