Become an Acquisitions Director for the Indian Health Service
Are you a high-level leader with a passion for public service and a deep understanding of Federal procurement? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is looking for a strategic thinker to serve as the Director of Acquisitions. This is an incredible opportunity to guide an agency-wide program that directly impacts the lives of over two million American Indian and Alaska Native individuals.
About the Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service, an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, is dedicated to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. We operate as a nationwide network of healthcare providers who are committed to innovation, compassion, and community-centered care. Joining our team means joining an interdisciplinary group of professionals solving real-world health challenges.
Job Responsibilities
As the Director of Acquisitions and Head of Contracting Activity, you will hold an essential role within our Senior Executive Service (SES) leadership team. Your primary duties include:
- Strategic Direction: Establishing nationwide acquisition policies that align with healthcare priorities.
- Leadership: Mentoring and empowering a team of contracting professionals to foster an environment of accountability and high performance.
- Relationship Management: Building collaborative partnerships with Tribal governments and external stakeholders.
- Process Improvement: Simplifying procurement lifecycles to reduce delays and optimize resource allocation.
- Stewardship: Ensuring all contracting actions reflect integrity, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.
Requirements
To succeed in this role, you must meet rigorous professional and executive standards.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Certification | Must hold FAC-C Professional or Level III certification. |
| Education | Bachelor's degree + 24 semester hours in business-related fields. |
| Experience | 4+ years of contracting experience, with 1+ in a specialized supervisory role. |
| Resume Length | Strictly capped at 2 pages. |
Additionally, you must demonstrate the five mandatory Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the required Technical Qualifications (TQs) within your resume.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this SES position is $151,161 to $228,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience. Beyond a competitive salary, employees may be eligible for performance-based bonuses, recruitment or relocation incentives, and a comprehensive federal benefits package.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the official USAJOBS portal. Please ensure your resume is limited to two pages and that you include all required transcripts and, if applicable, your BIA-4432 form for Indian preference. Human Resources will not review documents submitted outside of the official application or those that exceed the page limit.
If you are ready to apply your expertise to support a mission that truly matters, we invite you to review the full details on the USAJOBS portal. Your leadership can help ensure the Indian Health Service continues to provide exceptional care to the communities we serve.
Why This Acquisitions Director Job Matters
Lead the future of healthcare acquisition for Indigenous communities nationwide as an Executive Director with the Indian Health Service.
Acquisitions Director Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a visionary Acquisitions Director to join the Senior Executive Service (SES). This pivotal leadership role oversees the agency's nationwide procurement program, ensuring that healthcare providers serving American Indian and Alaska Native populations have the essential resources and infrastructure required to deliver high-quality care. As the Head of Contracting Activity, you will spearhead strategic initiatives, manage high-stakes acquisitions, and foster collaboration across Tribal and Federal sectors.
Requirements for Acquisitions Director
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Completion of a public financial disclosure report
- Ability to successfully pass a Federal background investigation
- Demonstrated ability to meet Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and Technical Qualifications (TQ) within a 2-page resume
- Completion of FAC-C (Professional) or legacy FAC-C Level III Certification, or DoD Contracting Professional Certification
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in contracting or related fields, including at least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level
- Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business-related fields (accounting, finance, law, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications for Acquisitions Director
- Expertise in Federal acquisition statutes and regulatory oversight
- Proven track record of managing large-scale, complex procurement portfolios
- Experience in cross-functional strategic leadership and stakeholder coordination with Tribal governments
- Success in driving technological upgrades and process improvements within large agencies
- Strong communication skills for executive-level advisory roles
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive executive-level salary with potential for performance-based pay adjustments
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
💡 How to Apply Acquisitions Director Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Acquisitions Director Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages addressing both TQs and ECQs.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Complete the online application questionnaire within the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your finalized application package by the closing date of November 20, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for this specific application.
- Focus your resume on clear examples of your leadership accomplishments rather than general duties.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly show the required 24 semester hours in business-related fields.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Indian Preference applicable to this role?
Yes, applicants claiming Indian preference must submit Form BIA-4432, properly signed and dated by an authorized Tribal Representative or BIA Official.
Can I submit a separate document for my TQs and ECQs?
No, separate narratives for TQs and ECQs are not permitted and will not be reviewed. You must integrate your accomplishments into your two-page resume.
Are there multiple duty locations?
Yes, this position is open to candidates in Phoenix, AZ; Rockville, MD; Albuquerque, NM; Oklahoma City, OK; and Rapid City, SD.