Launch Your Federal Career as a Secretary with the Indian Health Service

Are you looking for a meaningful career that combines administrative excellence with a commitment to community wellness? The Pawnee Indian Health Center, a facility under the prestigious Indian Health Service (IHS), is currently hiring a Secretary to support its Public Health Nursing department. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the healthcare mission for American Indians and Alaska Natives in Oklahoma.

About the Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a premier agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. Employees at the IHS are more than just staff; they are part of a nationwide team of healthcare providers, administrators, and professionals who prioritize service, compassion, and innovation.

Position Responsibilities

The Secretary acts as a vital liaison and coordinator within the clinic. You will be responsible for a wide range of tasks designed to ensure the office runs smoothly:

Administrative Coordination: Managing calendars for supervisors, scheduling meetings, and resolving scheduling conflicts.
Communication: Handling incoming calls and visitor inquiries, providing information, and directing matters to appropriate personnel.
Record Maintenance: Managing files and documentation according to federal records management standards.
Operational Support: Preparing correspondence, travel authorizations, and inventory management for office supplies.
Timekeeping: Maintaining time and attendance records for the department.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the GS-05 level, you must demonstrate the following:

Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level, involving clerical and administrative support.
Education: Four years of post-high school education at an accredited institution.
Combined: A combination of education and experience that meets the 100% threshold for the position.

Comparison Table: Qualifications at a Glance

Qualification Type	Requirement Level
Specialized Experience	1 Year (GS-04 equivalent)
Education Requirement	4 Years above high school
Proficiency	Office Automation Software
Verification	Transcripts Required

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a salary range of $40,736 to $52,957 per year, depending on qualifications and federal pay tables. As a federal employee, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including health and life insurance, participation in the FERS retirement system, and access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

How to Apply

Prepare Your Documentation: Update your resume and gather your transcripts or proof of preference (e.g., Indian Preference or Veterans Preference documentation).
Complete the Application: Apply through the official federal portal by the closing date.
USA Hire Assessments: After submitting, follow the instructions to complete the competency-based assessments.
Monitor Your Status: Use your account dashboard to track your application progress.

This role is an excellent entry point for administrative professionals looking to serve the public. By ensuring that the Public Health Nursing department at the Pawnee Indian Health Center operates effectively, you are helping to build a healthier future for native communities. If you meet the requirements and are ready for a rewarding challenge, start your application today.

Why This Secretary Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service in Pawnee, Oklahoma, and play a vital role in supporting high-quality healthcare for American Indians and Alaska Natives as a Secretary.

Secretary Job Overview

The Pawnee Indian Health Center is seeking a dedicated and organized Secretary to join the Public Health Nursing department. In this role, you will be the backbone of daily office operations, serving as the primary point of contact for visitors and callers, managing complex calendars, and ensuring administrative workflows remain efficient. You will support professional healthcare staff by maintaining accurate records, coordinating travel, and managing essential office supplies, all within a mission-driven environment committed to improving health outcomes for Native communities.

Requirements for Secretary

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Completion of a federal background investigation is required.
Must be able to successfully pass an E-Verify employment verification check.
Must be able to set up direct deposit for payroll.
Selective Service registration is mandatory for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be able to demonstrate financial responsibility.
Requirement to hold or obtain a REAL ID-compliant identification document.
Must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy for healthcare workers.
Must meet all qualification requirements within 30 days of the closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Secretary

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-04 level in federal service.
Four years of education above high school level from an accredited institution.
Proficiency in office automation software for document preparation and data management.
Strong skills in timekeeping, travel arrangement, and administrative record maintenance.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills for professional engagement with patients and staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and growth within the IHS.
✓Work-life balance in a community-oriented environment.

💡 How to Apply Secretary Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Secretary Job

Review the full job announcement for detailed instructions.
Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare your resume, ensuring it highlights specific administrative experience and duties.
Complete the required online questionnaires.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments within the provided timeframe.
Submit your application and all required documents before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the hours worked per week for each position to verify full-time or part-time experience.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and accurate.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire Assessments in one sitting if possible.
If claiming Indian Preference, ensure you include the BIA-4432 form with your application.
Prioritize the background investigation forms once requested to prevent delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this Secretary role?

The role focuses on supporting the Public Health Nursing department through clerical and administrative duties, including calendar management, correspondence preparation, and office coordination.

Is this position open to the public?

Yes, the position is open to various hiring paths including competitive service, excepted service, and specific preference groups like veterans and individuals with disabilities.

What happens if I miss the USA Hire assessment deadline?

Failure to complete the assessment within the designated window will result in your application being marked as ineligible.